At 66, Wally is taking on challenges that would intimidate people half his age. He’s hiked the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim twice, regularly cycles long distances, and this week is participating in a HYROX fitness competition.

But just a few years ago, his life looked very different.

An avid adventurer who loved hiking, cycling, and exploring the outdoors, Wally suddenly developed excruciating hip pain. Despite seeking treatment from multiple physicians and trying physical therapy and other interventions, nothing seemed to help.

The constant pain took a toll. Unable to exercise or enjoy his favorite activities, Wally gained 50 pounds and struggled with the limitations of his condition.

Then someone recommended Dr. Eric Cohen at University Orthopedics’ Joint Replacement Center.

Finding Answers and a Path Forward

From his first appointment, Wally knew he had found the right physician.

“I just felt at ease,” he recalled. “I felt heard, I felt seen.”

An MRI revealed bone-on-bone arthritis, and Dr. Cohen recommended a hip replacement. For Wally, understanding exactly what to expect was important.

Dr. Cohen walked him through the procedure, preparation, and recovery process, giving him confidence in his decision to move forward.

Dr. Cohen performed a same-day anterior approach hip replacement at the East Bay Surgery Center. The minimally invasive technique works between the muscles rather than cutting through them, allowing for a potentially quicker recovery.

Wally says he woke up from surgery without the debilitating hip pain that had controlled his life. He went home just a few hours later, shocked that the pain never returned.

Back to Adventure—and Beyond

Three years after his hip replacement, Wally isn’t simply back to his old routine. He’s challenging himself in entirely new ways.

At 66, he describes himself as being in the best shape of his life. In addition to hiking and cycling, he’s preparing for a HYROX competition, a demanding fitness event combining running and functional strength exercises.

Dr. Cohen and nurse practitioner Elizabeth Welch both say watching patients return to the activities they love is one of the most rewarding parts of their work.

“Not everyone’s goal is going to be to do a HYROX race or an Ironman,” Welch said. “But as long as the motivation is there, people are going to do great.”

For Wally, the transformation goes far beyond physical fitness.

“My life is so much better. I have joy, I have happiness,” he said. “I’m able to really wake up every morning excited about working out, excited about being active.”

His message to others living with chronic hip pain is simple: Don’t let pain define what’s possible.

Reflecting on his journey, Wally describes his hip replacement as a turning point.

“I got sort of this second chance or a second breath of life.”

Watch Wally’s inspiring story above and hear how Dr. Cohen helped him get back to doing what he loves.