Karen Catanzaro (Traumatic Injuries)

Almost two years ago, I was involved in a serious snowmobile accident while on vacation. I was air lifted to the trauma center at St. Anthony Hospital with multiple pelvic fractures, a broken shoulder, a broken tibia, broken ribs and a shattered femur. Over the next four weeks, I had multiple surgeries in order to put my body back together again. I was blessed to have the best team of trauma surgeons I could ever hope for. Dr. McNair was my main surgeon focusing on saving my leg. Dr. Lammens repaired my shoulder while Dr. Desai secured my pelvis.

Once stabilized, I was able to return to my home in Texas where I spent the next two months recovering from bone grafting surgery and rehabilitating. Before I left Denver, Dr. McNair informed me that although he had done everything he could, I might not ever be able to walk and at the very worst, could possibly lose my leg. I assured him I would walk again. My confidence was due to either blind faith or a certain level of ignorance to the severity of my injuries. Either way, I know it was the expertise of these surgeons that provided the basis for my continued recovery. Even though a second bone grafting was necessary, I’m walking with a cane, working and driving. The doctors were also very kind and sensitive to my emotional state and I appreciate their bedside manner as much as their talent.

I want to thank Drs. McNair, Lammens and Desai for not only saving my life but my quality of life as well.

Karen Catanzaro