Kankakee grandmother leaves her cane behind after knee replacement surgery

Judy Coy, 58, was experiencing pain in her left knee, making walking and moving around difficult during the day. The Kankakee, IL, resident knew she needed a knee replacement, so she was using a cane and sometimes a walker to get around until she could have surgery.

“I was supposed to have [my knee] replaced before COVID happened,” she said. But the pandemic delayed that surgery “for a long time.” After several years of delays, Judy contacted Michael J. Corcoran, MD, an orthopedic surgeon on staff at Ascension Saint Mary-Kankakee. Judy and her family were familiar with Dr.Corcoran. 

“Our daughter went to him, too, when she played college softball and messed up her shoulder and knee. And he fixed both of them,” said Judy’s husband, Pat.

Dr. Corcoran performed Judy’s knee replacement surgery in October, an experience she says was “pleasantly easy to get through.”

This wasn’t Judy’s first knee replacement, but she felt that this time was smoother because she chose Ascension Saint Mary-Kankakee for care. Judy’s orthopedic surgery care team was there for her every step of the way. From the check-in receptionist and nursing staff to her anesthesiologist and surgeon, each person provided her with personalized care that made her road to recovery special. 

Judy was walking within hours of surgery with the help of her care team. After a one-night hospital stay, she was able to return home, and recovery took about six weeks. Now, Judy no longer needs equipment to help her get around. She keeps up with her grandchildren, travels, and does the things she loves with ease. 

Leading knee replacement care close to home

Orthopedic specialists at Ascension Saint Mary provide leading care for joint pain. The hospital’s orthopedic program is certified by The Joint Commission for Total Knee and Total Hip Replacement, meeting requirements focused on orthopedic standards, clinical performance, and quality outcomes. Whether you need hip or knee replacement or back surgery, our highly experienced surgeons are ready to deliver the care you need. Learn more about advanced orthopedic care at Ascension Saint Mary - Kankakee.