Patient Mimi Simon reflects back on her care experience, with gratitude
After she was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident while on the job as a crime scene investigator, Mimi Simon gained a whole new level of appreciation for local doctors who are trained to provide truly specialized care. With injuries to her head, eye, breast, knees, and ankles, Mimi needed to see many different kinds of doctors—including orthopaedic specialists.
“I was in a lot of pain and could barely walk due to how extensive my knee and ankle injuries were,” recalls Mimi. “I didn’t realize there was an orthopaedic practice in St. Mary’s County until I had a need for those services myself. I was very happy when I found MedStar Health Orthopaedics at Leonardtown because having doctors close to home was very important.”
Mimi scheduled an initial appointment with John Kuri, MD, a fellowship-trained, board-certified surgeon with MedStar Orthopaedic Institute. He specializes in traumatic orthopaedic care with a goal to help each patient resume their pre-injury life. Convenience was the initial draw. The quality of the clinical care she received, along with the empathy and support she felt, is what made Mimi trust the practice fully—especially when a MRI confirmed she had a torn meniscus and that surgery was inevitable.
“I wasn’t thrilled to hear I had to have surgery, but at the same time, I wasn’t too worried about it because I knew this team would help and heal me,” said Mimi. “They were so personable and understanding. They listened to me and answered all of my questions. It was very clear they cared about me and would give me the highest level of care.”
Mimi’s surgery took place at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and was deemed a success. Her care team guided her through the recovery process and made it possible for her to return to work, on light duty, just three months after her major procedure. They also helped her understand the impact her injuries would have, long-term, and helped her set reasonable expectations as she thought about moving on with her life after her traumatic event.
“I learned how to manage the pain and what to do when my knee swells,” said Mimi. “It won’t ever look perfect but because of the great care I received, I know I can go on with my life without my knee issues holding me back.”
Mimi recently transitioned into a new job that is a bit less physically demanding, and she’s back to taking rowing and Pilates classes for fun and to keep her health in check. She can walk a mile without any problem and she sings in a local band, which keeps her out and about in the community.
“I know exactly where to go if I have any orthopaedic care needs in the future; I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” said Mimi. “MedStar Health Orthopaedics at Leonardtown does it right and I feel good because of the good care I got there. They got me back on track and I’m so grateful.”
Appointments are available at MedStar Health Orthopedics at Leonardtown by calling 240-434-7483. To learn more about the practice and the range of specialized services available, visit MedStarHealth.org/LeonardtownOrtho.