My story begins in March 2001, while
snow skiing at Winter Place Ski Resort. As I was skiing down the
trail my ski got over into some loose snow which pulled me off of
the trail causing me to loose control and head over the mountain
tumbling on the way down. My ski which was designed to release never
did so. As I was tumbling down through the wooded area my left knee
began to turn and twist as it was still attached to the ski. After
I came to a stop I attempted to stand but my left leg would not
let me do so. My knee was in pain and it felt as if it was made
of rubber.
At the emergency room approximately an hour later I was examined,
fitted with a brace and crutches, and instructed to contact Dr.
Phillip Branson the following day if possible.
I would like to take this opportunity to give a big thanks
to Dr. Branson for the immediate and terrific care which I received
before and after he reconstructed my left anterior cruciate
ligament. The photographs which I received after the surgery
revealed that my ACL was completely severed in two. Dr. Branson
prescribed post surgical physical therapy to begin immediately
and at this time I had my left leg in a Bledsoe Brace. After
a short period of therapy I was able to transfer into a Don
Joy Sports Brace. By August 01 this same year my knee had recovered
enough strength to where I once again began marching with the
Bluefield Beaver Band, never missing a single parade or ball
game.
In 2004, during my sophomore year at Bluefield State
College my friend and I were jumping on a trampoline and I once again
fell the wrong way and my knee twisted and I heard it make a popping
sound. Back to Dr. Branson I went and this time he advised me that
I had stretched the ACL beyond repair. He again repaired my knee using
a cadaver graph and this time making it even tighter than before.
After more physical therapy my new knee now feels very strong and
stable.
In November, 2005 I was crowned Miss. Southern West Virginia. I would
like you to know that after having these surgeries performed I am
able to walk and run in a pair of six inch high heels as good as the
next person. I am also able to perform snappy jazz dancing which I
used for my talent during the pageant. Along with this testimony I
have attached a couple of photographs taken at the pageant to show
how strong my knee is and how it still continues to do it's part in
making me look and feel good.
Thank you again for your professionalism and care which you and your
staff gave to me.
