Rick Girden's Story

From the "Big City" to Mexico, Missouri -- that's the path Rick Girden took to finally get back on his feet again.

Rick had knee replacement surgery in Chicago, IL in the summer of 2011, but it never worked correctly. Simply put, the knee just would not straighten properly forcing Rick to use crutches. He couldn’t even sleep in his own bed at night. Rick's big city doctor was out of options and encouraged him to get a second opinion.

It's funny how small our world can be when friends desire to help. A friend of Rick got on the phone to Laura Bergmann, who happens to be the office manager for AMC orthopeadic surgeon Ben Jolly, MD. A few discussions later, and Rick and his wife, Kim, were on their way to AudrainMedicalCenter.

Rick and Kim recall thinking, "Are we crazy to drive this far? We live in a big city with large hospitals!"

Dr. Jolly immediately diagnosed the problem (the knee was in too tight) and quickly scheduled in the procedure for the following week.

"From the moment we showed up at AudrainMedicalCenter, everyone was so gracious, hospitable, professional and fun," said Kim. "It was very evident that everyone loved their job."

Rick's surgery went very well. "We are both thrilled with the results," says Kim, "and he is looking forward to getting back to work in downtown Chicago.

"I have my life back now," says Rick.