An Interview with Neil Gobelle
As the holidays approach, many of us find ourselves thinking about the people and experiences that carried us through the year. For Neil Gobelle, that reflection holds special meaning. This season, he's celebrating a remarkable recovery made possible by his own resilience and years of preparation and support at Reh-Fit.
1. Thanks very much, Neil, for telling us about your recent hip replacement surgery and why you feel you are doing so well post-surgery.
Neil: I started at Reh-Fit after my first knee replacement seven years ago and realized that this was the place for me. I say "first" knee as it is likely I will be having a second in the future, and potentially a second hip replacement. My first hip was just 11 weeks ago, and I am doing so well.
2. How quickly did you feel ready to return to Reh-Fit?
Neil: Well, I was very surprised when 2 hours after surgery, the physio came in and said I would be discharged, with no restrictions. I attribute that to the fact that I worked out to prepare for surgery. I was able to get back to my workout routine almost immediately post-surgery, and within 4 weeks I even played a game of pickleball. (He is now slowly getting back into the game)
This kind of recovery is made possible by donors who invest in medically integrated, evidence-based fitness at Reh-Fit.
3. Did anyone in the healthcare system comment on your conditioning?
Neil: The hospital physio told me he does not see a lot of people doing stairs so quickly just hours after surgery. I was able to do it because I was training at Reh-Fit every day for months prior to my surgery date. I was limping badly, but I could still work those areas safely thanks to Reh-Fit.
4. Did you find other memebers and staff supportive of you in your recovery?
Neil: Everyone is very kind and friendly, and genuinely interested in how you're doing. I can always ask any one of the fitness pros to check my form in different exercises so I know I'm doing things right. The membership themselves, as well as the staff, are very open and friendly. And in turn, I now have become one of those members who is open to sharing my surgery and how I prepared pre and post procedure.
5. What do you say to others facing orthopaedic surgery?
Neil: The biggest thing is you're here at Reh-Fit; now keep coming, keep working on areas with support from the fitness staff, and when surgery is done, come back as soon as you have your doctor's approval, and work at strengthening, and your recovery can be remarkable.
I always mention that resistance training is the best thing you can do not only for joint surgery but, as we age, for strength and mobility. Whether you use bands, cable machines, barbells, dumbbells, or body weight, all options are at Reh-Fit, including classes that focus on resistance training.
6. Do you think that the atmosphere and friendly nature of the people at Reh-Fit is helpful for you in terms of your commitment to exercise?
Neil: Absolutely. The friendliness is probably the first thing you notice as a new member, and the support is always there from staff and other members, which keeps you coming back. The result is being healthier and happier. I had so many people wishing me well in surgery and checking in with me when I got back. That is huge.
7. You're very outgoing and friendly. Do you think a new member would be just as comfortable here?
Neil: I do. Because this place is warm and welcoming and sure, some people are not talkers like me, but there is an acceptance and effort from everyone to make you feel welcome. I can't wait to get here every day and I know others that feel the same. You are welcomed and feel among friends.
8. How often do you come to Reh-Fit?
Neil: I'm probably here five to six days a week. The benefit of continuity for me is strengthening and conditioning of the muscles around the joints for future surgeries.
9. In addition to strengthening, do you feel Reh-Fit has allowed you to age successfully?
Neil: From what I read often, resistance training, movement, and socializing are all critical components to aging well. All of those factors are what Reh-Fit is to me, and will make all the difference to anyone.
Thank you, Neil. In closing, can you share what you would tell a new member or someone thinking about joining Reh-Fit?
Neil: You will meet so many friendly people and be greeted as you walk through the doors. Often, I find I am greeted by other members before I even get to the locker room. For anyone who is uncertain, just come for a tour, walk through those doors, and you'll find the people here are so friendly and the services, classes, and training are so helpful and fun! You won't regret it.
Stories like Neil's happen because of donors like you.
The Reh-Fit is a not-for-profit charitable organization. Gifts of all sizes help Reh-Fit maintain the specialized expertise, equipment, and medically integrated programs that help community members like Neil prepare for surgery, recover safely, and return to the lives they love.
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