Stronger Than Ever
Age 12
The second day of seventh grade began like any other school day for Lydia Lanzarone. But during fourth period, an everyday moment changed the course of her year. When Lydia stood to help her teacher gather supplies, her foot became stuck as her body twisted. Her knee dislocated, sending her to the floor.
It was not Lydia’s first dislocation. After she was taken from the classroom in a wheelchair, Lydia and her mother decided it was time to find answers. Initial X-rays did not reveal the full problem, but an MRI showed a torn ligament, bone bruising, and trochlear dysplasia, a condition affecting the shape of her knee joint. Surgery would be necessary.
Lydia saw the procedure as an opportunity to move without constantly worrying about another dislocation. During surgery, she received donated ligament or tendon tissue to repair the damaged structure in her knee and improve its stability.
Her recovery has been significant. Lydia says her knees are now stronger than ever. She has returned to everyday activities, including running and riding her bike, and can walk without pain.
Lydia understands that her recovery was made possible by a family’s generous decision during a time of loss. She wrote to her donor’s family to express her gratitude and share the difference their loved one’s donation made in her life. She also thanked Dr. Roach and the medical and support teams at UF Health for caring for her throughout her journey.
Today, Lydia is enjoying the freedom to move comfortably and simply be a kid. Her story reflects the lasting impact one tissue donor can have on a young patient’s life.
“Without the ligament donation, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
