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Patient stories

Randy's story: A new knee and a new sense of freedom

Robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery helps Randy move beyond decades of knee pain

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When Randy Rousinne talks about life, it's clear he doesn't spend much time dwelling on limitations. 

A native Long Islander, Randy and his wife relocated to Shippensburg a few years ago to be closer to family. While many people might miss New York, Randy says he doesn't miss it at all. In fact, his biggest adjustment to life in Pennsylvania has been something most people wouldn't expect. 

"The people are too nice," he jokes. 

That optimistic outlook has helped define Randy's approach to life, even through more than 25 years of chronic knee pain. For years, simple activities like climbing stairs, driving and getting a good night's sleep became increasingly difficult. He adapted, found workarounds and learned to plan around the pain, but the limitations were always there.  

"On the inside, I didn't feel old," Randy says. "But my body was telling a different story." After years of letting pain influence his decisions, he realized he wasn't ready for that to become his new normal.  

As Randy and his wife began planning an Alaska cruise, a long-awaited bucket-list adventure, he knew something needed to change. Previous trips had been shaped by discomfort and limitations, and he didn't want knee pain determining what he could and couldn't do. The trip became his motivation to finally pursue knee replacement surgery.  

After researching his options, Randy chose WellSpan Orthopedics for his care. He was impressed by WellSpan's robotic-assisted surgical technology, but what stood out most was the people. He felt heard by his care team and appreciated the personalized attention he received throughout his journey. 

"I did my research. And I chose WellSpan," Randy says. He describes the technology as "first-class" and recalls feeling like more than just a patient. "They treated me like family."  

Following robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, Randy experienced more than relief from chronic pain. He regained confidence in his ability to live life on his own terms. Just three months after surgery, he and his wife were exploring Alaska together, walking and sightseeing without the limitations that had affected his life for decades. 

For Randy, the impact went far beyond his knee. 


Randy and his wife walk hand in hand ahead of their new adventures. 

"The surgery was life changing," he says. "It didn't just change me physically. It changed me mentally and emotionally."  

Today, Randy is focused on what's next. Whether he's traveling with his wife, enjoying retirement or planning his next adventure, he's no longer letting knee pain make the decisions. 

If knee pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, WellSpan Orthopedics can help you explore treatment options designed to get you moving again. Learn more about orthopedic care, including total joint replacement. 

 

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