Physician: Dr. Haynes
My name is Janice Hoffman, and I am an adjunct English teacher at one of the local colleges. Although I’ve never been athletic, I do lead an active lifestyle, especially since our grandson and his two Chocolate Labs live with my husband and me. Four years ago, I was horrified to learn that I would need a total hip replacement, so much so that I put it off for a year and a half. I had seen doctors here in Williamsburg and had even gone to Richmond for a second opinion, for I was sure they were all wrong; of course, they weren’t. In the meantime, a friend saw an article about an information workshop Dr. Boyd Haynes would be having in Newport News, and knowing how uneasy I was about the whole ordeal, she encourage me to attend. As I sat there listening to the details, I was still concerned about the procedure; however, I was immediately struck by how personal, likeable and funny Dr. Haynes was. I checked his outstanding record as an orthopedic surgeon and knew that when the time came, he would be my choice for this dreaded event, so I scheduled my consultation appointment, confirmed all I needed to know, and then put the surgery off once again.
By spring 2010, however, the physical therapy and meds could no longer prevent the embarrassing limp and crippling pain, so I knew it was time. I remember clearly that right before Dr. Haynes left the pre-op room, he touched me on the shoulder and called me by name. I already knew of his skill as a physician, so for a woman who was afraid of having this surgery, that one simple gesture gave me great peace. I went to sleep and awoke later with a new jiffy hip. The surgery itself went great , and I had a relatively quick recovery. The only problem was that I had issues with the anesthesia, something I swore would not happen again. Fast forward to this time last year when I discovered I would have to have the other hip replaced. Even though I had such a positive experience, I did not want to do this again, but it was inevitable, so this past summer, three years after my right hip replacement, I was back at Mary Immaculate for my left hip replacement. Once again, Dr. Haynes was there to comfort me in pre-op. He encouraged me to speak to the anesthesiologist about my preference, and that doctor was agreeable, so I knew that aspect of the event would be totally different this time. When Dr. Haynes asked how I was feeling right before the surgery, my response was that I was still a bit apprehensive. His quip was, “Well, here’s the good news: I’m not!” We laughed, and again, his kind demeanor put me at ease, and I was ushered into surgery.
I am one of those people who never dreamed she\’d have to have both hips replaced, but since I did, I am so thankful I met Dr. Boyd Haynes. I am also one who says she wishes she had done it sooner. I was amazed with how well I did this second time. With the continuing updates in procedures, equipment, and follow-up care, I healed even faster than before. It\’s really quite remarkable. When I go for my allergy shots, the nurse always shows me off to the other patients and tells them about my two new hips and how well I did both times. I would never push anyone into having surgery, for we each must make our own decisions; however, I can and do encourage people to check everything out ahead of time, and I always, always recommend Dr. Haynes for his expertise, kindness and sense of humor. For many of us, the bedside manner is as paramount as the skill. This past weekend, my husband, grandson and I were in Colonial Williamsburg strolling and enjoying the beautiful wreaths and decorations of the season. I turned to my husband and said aloud, “Thank you, Dr. Haynes. I can walk here in my favorite place with no pain and no limp because of you. I can walk.” My husband smiled and responded, “Yes, thank you, Dr. Haynes!” This one surgeon\’s skill and kindness have affected an entire family unit and we are all deeply appreciative.