A Thanksgiving of Gratitude: Nurse Regains Mobility After Life-Changing Surgery

Barbara Cesse, a registered nurse in the Critical Care Unit at Catholic Health’s St. Joseph Hospital, has spent her career caring for others. But the tables turned—Barbara became a patient herself, seeking relief from years of debilitating knee pain.

Her struggles began in her 30s, and by age 41, Barbara was walking with a cane. After long 12-hour shifts, routine tasks became painful and exhausting. “I was bone-on-bone,” she recalls. “Even simple things like going down to the basement, preparing meals or performing simple activities with my three children were challenging. I knew I needed help.”

That’s when Barbara turned to Dr. Eric Lepkowsky, chief of joint replacement at St. Joseph, and his team for robotic-assisted knee surgery. The advanced procedure offered precision and the promise of a faster, smoother recovery.

“Thanks to Dr. Lepkowsky and the surgical team, my life has changed,” Barbara says. “Within four months, I was back in my garden, bending, walking, and enjoying my summers without pain. I can do simple things around the house again and fully participate in activities with my kids. I was also able to return to caring for my patients—something that brings me tremendous purpose and joy as I continue our mission of healing.”

Barbara’s story comes at a special time for the hospital, which was recently recognized as a Hip and Knee Center of Excellence by The Joint Commission, reflecting its commitment to high-quality orthopedic care.

This Thanksgiving, Barbara is especially grateful. “I’m so thankful to the doctors for giving me my life back and letting me do simple things again. I’m excited to step into my role as sous chef for my husband this holiday—he’s the chef of the house, and I get to help him in the kitchen. It’s the little things that mean the most, and now I can enjoy them fully.”

To schedule a consultation with a Catholic Health or St. Joseph Hospital orthopedist, call (866) 891-9691.