A True Patient Story Told by Norman and His Wife Dottie

"It was the 2003 Antique Bike Club Wheelmen Annual Meeting. The first day we always do a 100-mile ride. I had just finished 80 miles when I fell and slipped on the pavement, badly breaking my right knee." ~ Norman

"I was petrified for Norman. We were in Illinois - 800 miles from home. The only thing we could do was to bring him to a local hospital. I didn’t realize how bad his injury was until we got there." ~ Dottie

"My knee was completely shattered. They put a pin in my femur and screws in my knee. But even after returning home and attending regular physical therapy, I still couldn't walk without a cane. Never mind riding a bike!" ~ Norman

"I was determined to see Norman ride again. I insisted he see the doctor I trusted to do my hip and knee replacements, Dr. Smires. I gave him the appointment for my annual follow-up checkup so he could get in sooner." ~ Dottie

"Dr. Smires knew exactly what to do. He was right on top of things. Determined to fix my knee, he did all the right tests and even researched my previous surgery. I knew I was in good hands. After a lot of consideration, he recommended what was best for me – a total knee replacement." ~ Norman

“Even though I was worried about the surgery, we were never left on our own. Dr. Smires or one of the nurses was constantly checking in on him to make sure he was comfortable and had everything he needed. It was so reassuring to know he was being taken such good care of.” ~ Dottie

“You could say I had the best of both worlds. I had a great surgeon who also happens to be the greatest guy. I trusted him from the beginning – and that really helped put my mind at ease.” ~ Norman

“Because of my own experience with Dr. Smires, I knew he was the best. But even I couldn’t have predicted the amazing outcome of Norman’s surgery. Within a few months of routine rehabilitation, he was actually up and riding again! I knew he would be back on his bike – I just never would have guessed so soon!” ~ Dottie

“If somebody told me I’d be riding almost 100 miles a week today, I never would have believed them. Dr. Smires really came through for me. I think, as a fellow cyclist, he understood my passion. And fortunately, as a doctor, he knew exactly how to give it back to me.” ~ Norman

“Dr. Smires was completely dedicated to Norman’s recovery. And when I see Norman enjoying life again, I can’t tell you how much that means to me.” ~ Dottie

“He’s more than an excellent doctor. He’s a really genuine person. And he shows his patients tremendous compassion. Compassion that I see as unconditional.” ~ Norman