After decades of living with chronic orthopedic issues, Terry Sanfilippo thought she knew what to expect from surgery and recovery. But thanks to the care she received at UAB Orthopaedics, her recent experience was both surprising and hopeful.

Sanfilippo, a registered nurse in her sixties, has spent more than 45 years navigating knee surgeries, physical therapy, and consultations with orthopedic surgeons. A former state champion gymnast, she jokingly admits she’s “not a professional athlete or a weekend warrior.”

In 2023, she experienced a fall that injured her shoulder and required surgery. She braced for a difficult recovery, having heard “nightmares” about post-op pain and limitations. But with the help of Aaron Casp, M.D., assistant professor in the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, she regained function with minimal discomfort.

“I attribute this success to the impeccable skill that Dr. Aaron Casp possesses,” Sanfilippo said. “He is caring and professional and was informative and realistic about the outcome. I cannot say enough good things about him and his staff, Jacob Henderlight, ATC, the nursing and anesthesia staff at UAB Highlands, and the therapists at The Workplace.”

Soon after her shoulder healed, she fell again, this time fracturing the kneecap on a leg that had already undergone surgery. Still working as a nurse and wanting to avoid more time off, Sanfilippo was hesitant about treatment options. But under Casp’s guidance, and with a combination of rehabilitation and medication, she returned to work with minimal pain.

“I feel very fortunate to work at this institution with such gifted professionals,” she said.

Casp credits a team-based approach for the successful outcomes patients like Sanfilippo experience.

“High-level care requires a great team, and I couldn’t do it without everyone involved,” he said. “My care philosophy is to truly listen to the patient and focus on what’s most important. Getting them back to what they want to do is why I went into medicine.”

Today, Sanfilippo is still doing what she loves, caring for her patients and staying active in the work that has defined her life for decades. Her story is a reminder that with the right team, even the most complex recoveries can lead to renewed strength and independence.