Hailey’s basketball career at Nova Southeastern was nothing short of impressive, with six years of dedication, including an extra year granted due to a COVID-canceled season. However, during her fifth year, in a pivotal game against a rival team, Hailey experienced a moment that would test her resilience and passion for the sport. “I was driving left to the basket, fouled by a girl, and when I fell, I fell directly onto my left knee,” Hailey recalls. Despite feeling like her knee was dislocated, her determination saw her through the game, but the subsequent diagnosis was daunting — a PCL tear.
Choosing the Right Team for Recovery
The road to recovery began with choosing the right medical team. Hailey’s athletic trainer recommended Dr. Yoldas at Orthopedic Specialty Institute (OSI), known for his expertise in handling student-athlete injuries.
“I’m not from this area and have never dealt with injuries before, so I was very thankful to be connected with him,” she said, highlighting the trust and reputation that Dr. Yoldas holds.
Weighing the Options: Surgery or No Surgery?
Hailey recovering with her friends after surgery. Courtesy of Hailey.
When Hailey met with Dr. Yoldas, he presented her with several treatment options. He explained that while continuing to play with the support of physical therapy was an option, it wouldn’t fully resolve the issue of her PCL tear. His personal recommendation, if she were his daughter, was to undergo surgery.
This personal approach, treating patients like family, resonated with Hailey, helping her make the difficult decision to undergo surgery and miss a significant part of the season. “He was very calm, which helped me a lot as it’s not easy to hear you’re going to miss playing for a long time,” Hailey explains.
Surgery Day and the Road to Recovery
Hailey back on campus at NSU following her surgery. Courtesy of Hailey.
Hailey’s surgery in December 2021 marked the beginning of a nine-month recovery process. She remembers the day vividly, from going under to being wheeled out to her mom’s car.
“Dr. Yoldas’ demeanor and the way he would talk to me made me feel very calm. I had no uneasy feelings going into my surgery, and I would say that was a very big factor in my recovery and healing process,” Hailey said.
The recovery was intense and sometimes painful, but OSI’s comprehensive care and Hailey’s relentless spirit led to quick improvements as she began physical therapy the day after her surgery. “It was definitely painful in the beginning, but I saw fast results as physical therapy progressed,” she notes.
Back on the Court and Better Than Ever
Photo of Hailey back on the court. Courtesy of Hailey.
By September, Hailey was back at practice, initially participating in non-contact drills before fully returning to the game. The subsequent season proved to be her best yet, as her team made it to the NCAA tournament.
“We only lost six or seven games that year, and it was definitely a very successful year for us and myself as a player,” Hailey stated. Her performance not only contributed to the team’s success but also allowed her to end the year with over 1000 career points.
Life After College: Staying in the Game
Today, Hailey works as a case coordinator and remains active, participating in a kickball league and continuing to play basketball. Her decision to undergo surgery with OSI not only helped save her basketball career but also ensured she could maintain an active lifestyle after graduation.
Quality Care to Inspire Future Athletes
Hailey’s story of overcoming her PCL tear is a powerful testament to the importance of expert medical care, the right support system, and an athlete’s unbeatable spirit. OSI’s commitment to personalized care and excellence ensures that each patient, athlete or not, receives the best possible outcome and returns to the activities they love with renewed vigor and passion.
For more inspiring stories like Hailey’s or to learn about our services, click here to visit our website, or you can schedule an appointment. Whether you are looking to return to the game or simply regain your active lifestyle, OSI is here to help you make your comeback.