Alexis Williams

July 24, 2014: The Day My Life Changed

As my I began to wrap up my freshman soccer year at nationals, on my third game I tore my ACL. At first I did not know but I knew something was wrong because I could not walk and it hurt to bend my knee. Once I was told I tore my ACL I was devastated, I have always heard about people tearing their ACL but I never thought I was going to be one of them. I thought this was going to be a huge setback in my soccer career but then that next month I went to HSS to see Dr. MacGillivary. He had so much confidence I would be back playing better than ever. I left that room determined and ready to take on this challenge. Still the day of my surgery I was so nervous I brought in my stuffed dog, Clover, for good luck. With Clover and the HSS staff by my side I knew the surgery would go according to plan. After my surgery, the nurses were very helpful asking me how I felt and if I wanted some food. That day I went home and set a goal for myself: to start the Jefferson Cup, a prestigious tournament in Virginia. I knew this was going to be something I needed to work for but I knew I could achieve it. 6 months after my surgery I was back on the field better than I was before I tore my ACL. I had more determination and heart than ever before. That following year I committed to play soccer in college. Without the help of Dr. MacGillivary and the HSS staff my goal and dream would not have been accomplished, I want to thank you all for "getting me back in the game".

- Alexis Williams