Bernice’s Hip Replacement Recovery with Covenant Health Fort Loudoun

Just five days after hip replacement surgery at Covenant Health Fort Loudoun, 89-year-old Bernice Smith was sitting in her hairdresser’s chair. “I fell on Monday, had surgery on Tuesday, and made it to my hair appointment on Friday,” she said with a laugh. 

For many people, a fall and a broken hip can feel life-changing. For Bernice, it was simply an obstacle standing in the way of getting back to the life she loves. And that’s exactly what the team at Covenant Health Fort Loudoun helped her do. 

Always on the Move 

If you ask Bernice to describe herself, one word quickly comes to mind: busy. 

She and her partner, George, care for a farm and manage rental properties. They have built a life centered around hard work and serving others. Even today, Bernice enjoys cooking, baking, volunteering, attending Bible study and helping wherever she can. 

“I’ve always been an on-the-go person,” Bernice explained. “I don’t stay still very long.”  

Bernice’s Hip Injury 

In late February, Bernice was getting up from her couch when her foot caught a rug. Suddenly, she was on the floor. At first, she was convinced she would be fine. 

“I’m stubborn,” she admitted. “I kept telling everyone I just needed help getting up and I’d be okay in the morning.” But when she tried to lift her leg, she knew something was wrong.  

That evening, her daughter was called, and an ambulance was requested take her to the hospital. When the ambulance arrived, Bernice made one thing clear: “I told them I wanted to go to Covenant Health Fort Loudoun.” 

Bernice’s Trusted Care Partner 

Once she arrived at Fort Loudoun, imaging revealed that Bernice would need a hip replacement. The news didn’t shake her confidence. 

“When the doctor told me what needed to be done, I trusted him,” Bernice said. “I told him to do what he needed to do.” 

The following day, she underwent surgery with Orthopedic Surgeon, Donald Sandercock, M.D. 

Bernice complimented every member of her care team. “Everyone was wonderful,” she said. “They took great care of me, and I knew they would too.” 

Having advanced orthopedic care available at Covenant Health Fort Loudoun allowed Bernice to receive expert treatment without going far. She was able to begin recovery sooner and stay close to family and friends. 

She laughed as she talked about needing to get back on her feet quickly to make her famous banana pudding. She shared, “People were counting on me. I didn’t have time for a bad hip.” 

Getting Back to What Matters Most 

Looking back, she’s grateful for the care she received and the way her team helped her get back to living life on her terms. “The therapy has helped so much,” she said. “The people there are great.” 

Today, Bernice continues physical therapy and is steadily returning to her normal routine. She admits the fall made her a little more cautious, but it hasn’t slowed her down for long. In fact, George, has joined her therapy sessions too. 

“I would recommend Covenant Health to anyone. In fact, I already have,” Bernice shared. “When you trust the people taking care of you, it makes all the difference.” 

With baking to do, places to go and people waiting on that famous banana pudding, Bernice is glad to be back on her feet and moving forward. 

Learn More About Total Joint Replacement 

Joint pain, injury or limited mobility doesn’t have to keep you from the life you love. At Covenant Health Fort Loudoun, patients have access to advanced orthopedic care and total joint replacement close to home.  

Learn more about total joint replacement services at Covenant Health Fort Loudoun or talk with your provider about whether joint replacement may be right for you.