In 2004, I was diagnosed with osteonecrosis in both hips. Over the years, pain became part of my daily reality. Last year, during the process of moving to Oklahoma, something happened that made the pain significantly worse. Walking became difficult, and simple daily activities became increasingly challenging. I visited another orthopedic doctor in the area and, after my first appointment, I was left with the understanding that surgery was the only real option available to me.
Because of that, I spent a long time preparing myself physically and emotionally for what I believed was unavoidable. I worked hard to lose weight, something that had been a struggle for many years. Through determination and commitment, I have now lost more than 30 pounds and continue working toward better health. Yet the pain persisted. As time went on, I tried to persuade my doctor to consider surgery even though I had not yet reached my weight-loss goal, with no success. I decided to seek a second opinion, and that is where Dr. Ronald LaButti enters this story.
What made my appointment with Dr. LaButti so meaningful was not only his medical knowledge, but the way he approached me, not as a medical record or a diagnosis, but as a person.
He took the time to listen, to examine me carefully, and to understand where the pain was truly coming from. During our conversation, he said something that no other doctor had ever said to me: "I do not treat X-rays or MRI scans, I treat people." Those words deeply moved me. In that moment, I felt seen, not simply as a medical record number or a diagnosis, but as a human being who needed help, understanding, and hope.
Learning that much of my pain was related to tendonitis, rather than immediately to the condition I had feared most, brought tremendous relief. Dr. LaButti offered injections, medication, and physical therapy, all of which have already made a significant difference. For the first time in a long while, I feel hopeful, encouraged, and motivated again.
I wanted to write this note because I believe people should know the impact that compassionate care can have. Dr. LaButti's professionalism, attentiveness, and humanity reminded me that medicine is not only about treating conditions, but also about caring for people when they feel vulnerable, discouraged, and uncertain about the future.
I am deeply grateful for the dignity, respect, and compassion with which he treated me. His care has made a meaningful difference in my life, and that is something I will not forget.
With gratitude and respect,
Silvestre Romero read more
