Tony’s Story: Finding Healing and Home at Good Samaritan

For 56-year-old Vincennes resident Tony Burkhart, hip pain had slowly become a constant barrier in his life. Simple things such as walking without limping, sleeping through the night, or even getting in and out of a car were painful daily challenges.

“I’d have to physically lift my leg just to get into the car,” Tony recalled. “Any kind of lateral movement was painful. I knew something had to change.”

Friends and acquaintances suggested he travel to bigger cities for his hip replacement, including Louisville, Indianapolis, or Evansville. But for Tony, the choice was clear.

“This is my home,” he said. “These are my friends and my family who work here. I knew I wouldn’t get any better care anywhere else.”

When Tony met Dr. David Miller, orthopedic surgeon at Good Samaritan, his confidence only grew. “When I talked to Dr. Miller and found out how many hip surgeries he does every year, it was clear to me he was the man for the job,” Tony said.

The morning of surgery, Tony was nervous, but his fears quickly faded. “The surgery lasted about 50 minutes. By lunch, I was walking the halls and climbing steps. By five o’clock that evening, I was headed home,” he said.

Recovery became a journey of determination. With the guidance of Good Samaritan physical therapists, Tony pushed himself. “If they told me to do two exercises, I did three. They held me accountable, and we set goals such as being back on the golf course in seven weeks.”

And he did just that. Seven weeks later, Tony was back on the tee box in Arizona, swinging pain-free. Months later, he was hiking, golfing, canoeing with his grandsons, and even water skiing again.

“My quality of life returned to what it was before the pain,” Tony said. “I have eight grandkids, and they’re all active. Now I can do things with them, not just sit and watch. That’s the biggest joy of all.”

Looking back, Tony is deeply grateful for his care team. “Dr. Miller’s professionalism and kindness were second to none. And my Good Samaritan physical therapists, Amber Klein and Angie Black, pushed me to be my best. They made it easy, convenient, and they believed in me.”

For others who may be hesitant about surgery, Tony offers encouragement:
“If you’re nervous about getting your hip replaced, let me tell you there are better days ahead. You’ll feel better than you can imagine. Don’t waste time living in pain.”