From Pain to Power: Gregory’s Hip Replacement Journey with OrthoIllinois

“Just get it done. You won’t have any regrets.”

That’s the advice Gregory gives anyone thinking about hip replacement surgery. Not too long ago, he was the one living with constant pain and wondering when he’d finally get some relief. Today, after a successful total hip replacement at OrthoIllinois, Gregory is back to living pain-free and confident.

Life Before Surgery: Living in Constant Discomfort

Gregory first injured his hip as a teenager, so he always had an idea that surgery might be in his future. As the years passed, the pain slowly worsened until it started interfering with his daily life.

Simple tasks became exhausting. Mowing the lawn meant taking multiple breaks. Walking more than a block was nearly impossible. Climbing stairs felt like a major challenge.

“I didn’t try physical therapy or injections,” Gregory says. “I knew those would just delay what I already knew was coming. I was waiting for the point where I couldn’t take the pain anymore. That day finally came.”

Finding the Right Team at OrthoIllinois

When Gregory decided it was time to take the next step, he turned to his local community for recommendations. He posted in a neighborhood Facebook group, asking if anyone knew a good surgeon. The response was overwhelming.

“More than 50 people recommended OrthoIllinois,” Gregory says. “That kind of response made the decision really easy.”

Gregory was initially seen at OrthoIllinois by John Daniels, MD. Dr. Daniel’s assessment revealed the very complex nature of both Gregory’s condition and the advanced surgical procedure that would be required. Gregory was further referred to Dr. Michael Harvey to perform the complex hip replacement surgery.

A Surgeon Who Put Him at Ease

Gregory’s first appointment with Dr. Harvey left a lasting impression.

“He explained everything in a way I could understand. He even showed me the actual parts they’d be using in the surgery,” Gregory says. “That made it all feel more real, but also a lot less scary. He was so down-to-earth and reassuring.”

Gregory had mentally prepared himself for a difficult experience. But to his surprise, everything went far better than expected.

“When I woke up after surgery, I was amazed at how little pain I felt,” he says.

Surgery Day: Clear, Calm, and Comforting

On the day of the procedure, Gregory felt completely supported.

“Everyone from the nurses to the surgical staff was so calm and kind. Everything was clearly explained, and I never felt confused or alone at any point. They made sure I was comfortable the whole time.”

Recovery: One Step at a Time

After surgery, Gregory followed a clear recovery plan that started with physical therapy.

“Dr. Harvey told me, ‘Just do what we tell you, when we tell you,’ and I did exactly that,” Gregory says.

Every day brought new progress. He stood taller. He walked farther. He began to trust his body again. That, he says, was the hardest part—believing he could move without pain. But as the days passed, that confidence came back.

Life Today: Free from Pain and Fear

Now, Gregory says his right hip feels fantastic. He can bend, squat, and walk comfortably, things that used to be difficult or even impossible.

“I do things without even thinking about it now. It’s really changed my life.”

The surgery and recovery went so well, in fact, that Gregory already has the second hip replacement scheduled for his arthritic left side.

“This time, I’m not nervous at all. I know exactly what to expect, and I know I’m in good hands.”

His Message to Others: Don’t Wait

Looking back, Gregory says he’s eager to encourage others who are putting off surgery.

“I’ve told so many people, don’t be afraid. Just get it done. You’ll feel so much better, and you won’t regret it.”

He credits the success of his experience to the care and expertise of Dr. Harvey and the entire OrthoIllinois team.

“This wasn’t just a surgery. It was a turning point in my life. They didn’t just fix my hip, they gave me my life back.”