Undergoing major surgery such as knee arthroplasty (knee replacement) can be daunting. The fear of the unknown—combined with the pain and uncertainty of recovery—leads many to hesitate or even put off the decision entirely. But for some, like Eva Peters, the choice becomes clear after years of chronic pain. Eva began struggling with knee pain in early 2015. Over time, the discomfort became so severe that simple, everyday tasks became physically exhausting. She shared a moment that captured just how debilitating it had become: “I remember going to teach VBS at the church, and I had to stop the car in between just to keep going—just to get those few miles to the church.” Like many others, Eva was hesitant to consider surgery. She tried alternate methods: knee braces, pain-relieving medications, and anything that might offer relief. But nothing worked. After nearly a decade of enduring worsening pain, she underwent her first knee replacement in 2023. Two years later, in early 2025, she had the second knee replaced. When I asked if there was a defining moment that pushed her to go through with the surgery, her answer was simple yet deeply moving: “I wanted to live life.” That answer struck me. It was a reminder of how easily we—myself included—take mobility for granted: walking, driving, or even just standing without pain. For people living with chronic joint pain, knee replacement surgery isn’t just a procedure— it’s a path to renewed freedom, independence, and dignity. Eva’s story also sheds light on the emotional and mental battles patients often face.

The fear of surgery, the unknowns of recovery, and doubts about the outcome can feel overwhelming. But for Eva, the chance to live without constant pain outweighed the fear. I also had the opportunity to ask Eva about her recovery—a part of the process that often feels like a mystery to those considering the operation. Many of us, myself included, imagine that you have the surgery one day and are walking pain-free the next. But as Eva explained, it’s not that simple. For people living with chronic joint pain, knee replacement surgery isn’t just a surgical procedure—it’s a path to renewed freedom, independence, and dignity. Recovery is a process—filled with both progress and setbacks. With the support of her family and guidance from her physiotherapist, Eva navigated the hard days and came through stronger. She made it clear to me: it was hard, but it was worth it.

Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and recovery protocols, patients today often experience better outcomes and faster recovery than ever before. Still, it takes courage, commitment, and trust in the journey. Many people grow accustomed to living in pain, but Eva’s story is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to. Taking that leap—choosing healing over hesitation—can be life changing.

Thanks to Dr. David Hedden, Orthopedic Surgeon at Concordia Hospital, Eva’s surgeon for his excellent care of his patients and to Eva. The research we do at Concordia in the Arthroplasty Research Lab has enabled us to continue to make strides in surgery that gives people their life back.

See more at www.arthroplastyresearchchair.co