Stella Chappex Siracuza

Stella Chappex Siracuza has suffered from severe arthritis for years — a condition causing joint damage, chronic pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. According to the Arthritis Foundation, it is the leading cause of disability in America.

Arthritis never stopped Stella from working at her 30-year local grocery store in Kissimmee nor was she a stranger to major surgery having underwent hip surgery in the past. This time, and after a prior meniscus surgery to repair a torn knee cartilage, Stella's quality of life had deteriorated significantly. She went from chronic pain to agonizing pain for a year, not able to move and having to take strong painkillers.

Not being able to manage the excruciating knee pain and inflammation, she sought the care at Osceola Hospital's Robotic Orthopedic Program and robotic orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Alfredo Arrojas.

"The care at the hospital was excellent, the nurses constantly checked on me and thanks to the skillful hands of Dr. Arrojas, I'm moving, no more painkillers, and no pain after 2 months from surgery," said Stella. "I even lost 30 pounds." Stella underwent physical therapy immediately after her robotic knee surgery and in a month, she was driving and getting in and out from the car. Inspired by her great outcome, she started riding her brand new stationary bicycle every day.

Now and 6 months after, she is back at her store, walking the aisles and checking on the deli, full of life, strength and spark. Stella feels blessed as she celebrated her 71st birthday with her family and looks forward to increase her time on her bicycle.