From Bound to Boundless: Debbie Reynolds’ Journey to Mobility and Hope with MOSA

“I am extremely grateful for the team at Middlesex Orthopedic and Spine Associates, especially Drs. Amy Wasterlain and Lee Bloom. When I first met with them, I was in a bad situation; every step I took was painful because of an injured knee despite two prior knee replacement surgeries at a different practice in Connecticut. Because of the kneecap moving from side to side, I would often faint because of the pain. There were one thousand three hundred and thirty days before I met Dr. Wasterlain.

Before coming to MOSA, I was basically homebound for over seven years. Getting around meant using two canes and/or a manual wheelchair, and then eventually an electric one. I was nervous about falling so I tried to support myself with my upper body, but that came at a cost to my back, neck, hands, and wrist. Needless to say, getting around daily was a painful and daunting effort. It was extremely taxing.

I started on a journey to a healthier me with some goodwill and support from MOSA. My surgeons, Dr. Wasterlain and Dr. Bloom, were empathetic to my plight and masterful with their surgical skills. They showed a lot of compassion toward my situation. I called them “The Fixers”. I underwent surgery in April 2023. Dr. Wasterlain revised my knee replacement and Dr. Bloom replaced my ligament. Following the surgery, I began to overcome my physical and emotional challenges with the MOSA team by my side.

After surgery, I had six months of physical therapy, I strengthened my weakened muscles and learned how to walk again with two functioning lower limbs. Balancing my “new body” became a joyful task. The physical therapy experience was wonderful—from the front desk staff to Stacy and her team. I called them “The Encouragers.” They cheered on my progress at each session.

Each day I had less pain, and I felt more stability with every step. Movement now means more strength for walking and more possibilities for life. I had to take action and not let my circumstances hold me back. I had to make progress. A second opinion with caring skilled professionals was just what I needed. So now, today, I can say with confidence I’m on my way to a better quality of life. 

I am so very grateful to be able to share my story with you today. Be encouraged! I want to thank Drs. Wasterlain, Bloom, and the team of professionals for their awesome compassionate approach to healthcare. I have not crossed the finish line yet, but I’m very grateful that I can stand on the track and begin my journey to better. It is comforting to know there are great, compassionate experts like Dr. Wasterlain in Connecticut. I would also like to thank the family of the donor of my replaced ligament.

If my situation resonates with you, I want you to know to keep seeking the help and healing hands that you need. The answers are out there for you. It can get better.”

Blessings, 
Debbie Reynolds


About Dr. Amy Wasterlain and Dr. Lee Bloom

Dr. Amy Wasterlain is a board-certified, licensed, and fellowship-trained hip and knee replacement surgeon at Middlesex Orthopedic & Spine Associates. Learn more about Dr. Wasterlain here.

Dr. Lee Bloom is a licensed and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Middlesex Orthopedic & Spine Associates. Learn more about Dr. Bloom here.