We are responsible for the condition we are in when we know that it is we who change those things that can be changed and accept the things that cannot be changed.

For instance, for several years I did everything I could to heal my left hip and my right knee. I went to the experts, had x-rays, discussions and was given advice on how to handle the pain. One leading surgeon wanted to replace my left hip in 2005. He was a leading expert in hip surgery and used the commonly accepted approach of doing a posterior hip replacement. There were many limitations that we discussed. I told him I was not willing to accept them.

In August of 2009, I began a search for a better approach to handling my left hip since the pain was becoming severe. I found that there was an alternative. The approach was called anterior hip replacement. The recovery time was far less and there were no limitations. I watched the surgery being performed on YouTube and found that a leading surgeon for this surgery, Dr. Heinrich had his practice in Austin. I made an appointment and he confirmed what I had read. We scheduled the surgery for 16 Sep 2009 at St David’s in Austin. It has been over six months since the surgery. My recovery from the hip surgery has been rapid and allowed me to have a stable platform from which to operate.

I also had Dr. Heinrich replace my right knee on 25 Nov 2009. I am still in physical therapy building my strength on 9 May 2009.

There are always alternatives. It is however up to each of us to find the approach that will work in the situation we find ourselves confronting.