Paul Spina

In 2003, I sustained a serious injury to my knee and back. As a result, I developed a DVT, which lead to a pulmonary embolism. I learned I would have to stay on anticoagulants for the rest of my life. It didn't seem like an insurmountable task. In 2004, I had a second PE. Things became a little more intense. Over the next few years I found that having surgery was going to pose risks. In 2008 I came to HSS for knee replacement with Dr. Su because I needed to be monitored in a place that could also care for my blood disorder. With the help of an IVC filter, I had a successful replacement. In 2009, my Antiphospholipid Syndrome took a turn and my lungs developed a ground glass appearance, which was the result of bleeding. My pulmonologist referred me to Dr. Lockshin. I learned that my condition was not commonly found in men in this early a stage so for that I was very lucky. I went through 2 years of infusion therapy. I began seeing Dr. Erkan upon the retirement of Dr. Lockshin and with his help I have been able to control my APS with medication. My lungs have been clear now many years and my numbers are stable. I had a hip replacement with Dr. Su in 2014. I continue my treatments with Dr. Erkan and continue to do well. Life will never be without its risks and I can never do the things that pose risks like skiing or contact sports, but I get to enjoy my 3 grandchildren. I get to travel and enjoy life and spend time with friends and family. I am grateful to the great doctors at HSS.