Prior to my knee replacement surgery with Ian McDermott, I was a healthy 67 year old, but my knee extension was limited to around 20°, and I would become very tired after just 15 minutes of walking on flat terrain.

One year after the surgery, the results have far exceeded even my most optimistic expectations. My biggest fear was that I might never achieve full extension again. Today, my knee is slightly hyperextended at –5°, which is better than my other leg, and my flexion is equal on both sides at around 130–135°.

I have no discomfort, no tightness, and the knee feels completely like my own. My walking fitness has returned to where it was three years ago, and my posture is back to normal.

Two months ago, I travelled to Patagonia in Argentina and Chile, where I was able to complete moderate hikes of around 8 miles with several hundred metres of ascent, all without any issues. Being able to hike again, something I thought I had lost forever, made me very happy.

I continue to do my rehab exercises every other day because they help me maintain the excellent condition of my knee and support my overall fitness.

I am deeply grateful to Ian for giving me my life back. My husband and I still mention him every time I do something I couldn’t do before the surgery.

All the best – DP