Patient Stories

Gabby R.

Dr. Lenke and the Och Spine team at NewYork-Presbyterian took care of me. They performed a spinal fusion to correct the curve and put me back on the field—where I'm meant to be. Read More...

Olivia M.

In January, 2020, the artist underwent surgical augmentation to halt a progressive spine disorder. Olivia's latest collection, Body, Joy, Cage, Scar, was exhibited at the Arlington Arts Center's Wyatt Resident Artists Gallery. Featuring drawings, embroidery, and video, she explores the human body as a tool, a worksite, and a raw material. Read More...

Lynn C.

I got my active life and my body back. These days, there are so many moments of gratitude: for my first long hike to the top of the mountain with no pain; for being able to garden again without pain; for going out on my cross-country skis; and returning to Pilates with a strong back! Read More...

John S.

“(Post-surgery,) Dr. Lenke expressed that there’s really not a lot of restriction. I’m starting to swing a golf club again, which is one of my passions; shoot hoops—play basketball with my friends. I did go to prom. Going to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital ... Read More...

Solomiya D

I’ve never wanted to not be able to do something, and I feel like I’m already living the dream that I’ve had in my heart....It’s a miracle. Read More...

Betsy A.

Dr. Lenke was so sure that I’d be able keep hiking and swimming and biking—and keep my job!—after surgery, I finally felt confident about having surgery....I am so grateful to Dr. Lenke. I am thrilled with my surgery and more thrilled with my recovery with each passing month. Read More...

Kyle W.

My life has been punctuated by surgeries, but I've always defined it by academic progress. In reality the two have been quite intertwined.  My first open-heart surgery occurred in infancy.  My first spinal fusion in fourth grade, the second fusion ... Read More...

Bryce S.

Now, being a little over a full year later, I feel little to no pain in the morning, and I do everything I did before the surgery. Nothing holds me back—I rode a motorcycle three months after surgery, I’ve been to Killington Mountain snowboarding only seven months after surgery, league roller hockey and wake boarding ten months after. I could go on and on about activities I’ve done since, but the list would be too long. Read More...