Why did you join AAOS?
The Academy was and is to this day regarded as the leading and premier organization for Orthopaedic Surgery. When I first started my career, there was never any doubt I would become a Fellow of the AAOS as soon as I was eligible. In those days, one could not join until two years after one became board certified in addition to undergoing an in-person interview.
Did you volunteer with an AAOS committee? If yes, which one(s)?
I participated in three different Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) committees: 1) Non-Arthroplasty Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee, 2) Surgical Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee, and 3) Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Femoral Condyle. It was a great experience!
How do you define success?
One can be successful in many different arenas. Foremost, one must be happy with oneself. I find happiness in raising a family with children who have become self-supporting and kind adults. I find happiness in my practice, tending to and educating my patients. And finally, I find happiness in giving back to the community, thus I have been an Oral Board examiner for the ABOS for 21 consecutive years.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
One of my attending professors was Dr. Joseph Ferrone at New England Medical Center. He was an excellent surgeon but also kind and thoughtful to all his patients, staff, and residents.
What do you love most about AAOS?
I am incredibly proud to be a member of this organization of fellow orthopedic surgeons. The Annual Meeting is the highlight event of the year, bringing together industry, education, and fellow surgeons. The AAOS is a great place to network and make new friends, for as we all know, orthopaedic surgeons are just great people overall!
What advice would you give to new members of AAOS?
I would tell new members to become involved in some capacity as there are countless opportunities to participate. I also recommend taking advantage of the vast educational resources and programs the Academy has to offer. As an old timer, I still like the books, but the online version is very handy!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
Two fun facts. First, I have nine beautiful children. Second, I joined the Navy Reserves as a medical officer shortly before my 63rd birthday. I was deployed to New York City in April and May of 2020 when it was the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic as part of Operation Gotham. If anyone is interested in finding out more about serving in the military as a critical warfighting skill physician, please feel free to contact me.
