Back to Patient Stories Overview

Patient Story of: Julianne Gallagher

Mount Bethel, PA

Hip Impingement

Share this Story

The road back was long and difficult, but I fought every day to be where I am now. I am forever grateful to my incredible surgeon, Dr. Nwachukwu and his team at HSS.

Julianne Gallagher

August 4th, 2025, marks one year since I faced the hardest challenge of my life. One year ago, I walked into the operating room for the last time with a torn labrum and hip impingement.

Over the past year, I have had to relearn almost everything: how to walk, balance, jump, run, turn out, and even the most basic elements of ballet. I learned how to handle a lot of pain, soreness, and tears. I also had to learn quickly what life was like without ballet.

While I relearned so many things, I also discovered new ones. I learned who I truly am and who I want to be. This journey and my new hip have shaped me into a stronger, more resilient person and a dancer who carries purpose behind every step.

The road back was long and difficult, but I fought every day to be where I am now. I am forever grateful to my incredible surgeon, Dr. Nwachukwu and his team at HSS, my physical therapy team, my friends, and my family for supporting me through every challenge and celebrating every milestone along the way. 🫶🏻