Debbie Winchester

After navigating two hip replacements and spine surgery, Debbie – a retired sales rep from Rhinebeck, NY – thought she had seen the last of the operating room. But when an old shoulder surgery mixed with osteoarthritis began stealing her sleep, her independence, and the ability to lift her young granddaughter, she knew something had to change.

That’s when she turned to Carl M. Cirino, MD, sports medicine surgeon at HSS Orthopedics with Stamford Health, who specializes in shoulder and elbow care. Dr. Cirino performed a reverse shoulder replacement at Stamford Health’s Tully Health Center – marking the first surgery of its kind at the outpatient facility.

Now, with physical therapy underway, Debbie is feeling the difference every single day. This summer, she is eager to rejoin her camping group and get back to the activities she loves most: working out, swimming, kayaking, and simply living life without pain. Even the little moments – turning a steering wheel, holding a hair dryer, baking – feel easier again.

But what matters most? Being able to lift, chase, and cherish every moment with her granddaughter. And that’s the kind of recovery that makes all the difference.