Patient Story of: Michelle Agins

As a photojournalist, my work is very physical. I’m on my feet for hours - sometimes days - following a story wherever it leads. Over time, that became harder. I had advanced arthritis in both of my knees. The pain followed me everywhere. At a certain point, it wasn’t about the picture anymore - it was about getting through the day on my feet. As my mobility declined, so did my ability to be the artist I wanted to be. That’s what brought me to HSS and Dr. Jose Rodriguez. From the start, what stood out was how much he cared - not just about my knees, but about me as a person. It made me feel like I was in the right place. After knee replacement surgery at HSS, everything began to change. Through surgery and physical therapy, I rebuilt my strength and confidence. The pain eased. I could move again. And I could focus, see, and create. A year later, during a routine follow up, Dr. Rodriguez ordered additional imaging that led to the early detection of lung cancer. I received treatment and am doing well today. It reminded me they were really paying attention - not just to my knees. Being able to go back to work brightened my life. With two new knees, I can stand, I can move, and I can do the work I love - without pain getting in the way of the picture.