LeRoy’s Journey to a Pain-Free Knee
On a sunny afternoon in Hutchinson, you’ll likely find LeRoy Becker tending to his lawn or planning his next round of golf. But not long ago, even simple activities like mowing the grass or going for a walk left him struggling with knee pain.
“I had my left knee replaced about ten years ago, and it helped,” said LeRoy. “But my right knee just kept getting worse. I kept putting it off, but after a while, I realized I couldn’t ignore it anymore.”
LeRoy decided it was time to take the next steps toward relief. He made an appointment with his primary care provider, Connor Hedstrom, DO, who referred him to see orthopedic surgeon Matthew Copple, DO, FAAOS.
Dr. Copple performed LeRoy’s total knee replacement in June of this year, and the experience exceeded LeRoy’s expectations.
“I felt at ease once I met with Dr. Copple and his team,” said LeRoy. “They explained everything well, and answered all of my questions. When the day of my surgery arrived, I knew I was in good hands.”
Helping patients like LeRoy reclaim their lives and return to the activities they love is what makes our surgical team’s work rewarding.
“Our goal is to restore function and relieve pain so patients can fully enjoy life again,” Dr. Copple said. “Seeing LeRoy recover so well is exactly why we do what we do.”
The procedure went more smoothly than LeRoy expected.
“Compared to my first knee replacement years ago, this one felt easier,” said LeRoy. “It just felt right. Everything did. I got out of physical therapy fast and easily. Dr. Copple did a great job – I was very happy with it.”
After his surgery, LeRoy began working with physical therapist Alyssa Mohr, PT, DPT. According to LeRoy, knowing how positively physical therapy impacted his recovery during his previous surgery helped him go confidently into his recovery this time.
“Physical therapy went better than I expected this time too,” he said. “I knew what I needed to do to get stronger. Alyssa knew how to push me just enough without making it overwhelming. We had some laughs along the way, too.”
Today, LeRoy is back to his regular activities – walking with his wife, taking care of his lawn, and even returning to the golf course.
“It feels good to get back out there and swing the club again,” said LeRoy. “I don’t need to play a perfect game, but being able to enjoy the day – that’s plenty for me.”
What stood out most to LeRoy wasn’t just the success of his surgery, but the way he was treated throughout his journey.
“What really impressed me was how friendly and welcoming everyone was,” he said. “From the nurses to my physical therapist, everybody treated me with kindness, which made it easier to ask questions along the way. It wasn’t just about the surgery – it was
the way they cared about me as a person.”
LeRoy shared his gratitude in a special way that left an impact on our staff. After his surgery, he sent a generous meat and cheese tray to our surgical team.
“I wanted them to know how much I appreciated them and the work they’ve done for me, because everything went so well,” said LeRoy. “I noticed how hard they worked, and I wanted to thank them for doing a good job.”
According to Stephanie Halverson, Director of Perioperative Services, LeRoy’s thoughtful gift made an impact on our staff.
“It was such a kind gesture,” she said. “Our team was touched by LeRoy’s generosity, but truly the honor was ours to care for him. Moments like this are why we serve our community.”
For those hesitant to take the next steps toward surgery, Dr. Copple emphasized that they don’t have to face it alone.
“Many patients wait years before deciding on surgery, but the sooner you address the problem, the sooner you can get back to enjoying life. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way,” said Dr. Copple.
LeRoy agrees.
“If you’re in pain, don’t wait as long as I did,” he said. “The sooner you take care of it, the sooner you can get back to living your life.”
If you or a loved one are experiencing pain like LeRoy, call us at 320-864-7816 to make an appointment, or click here to learn more.
