As a right-handed pitcher for the Columbia University baseball team, I arrived on campus filled with anticipation and dreams for my college career. However, I was soon faced with a pitcher’s worst nightmare: pain in my elbow and soreness in my shoulder. The diagnosis was daunting, requiring surgery that could potentially sideline me for a significant time. This is where Dr. Chris Ahmad stepped in, transforming what could have been a bleak chapter of my life into a story of hope and resilience.
Instead of opting for full-blown Tommy John surgery for my elbow, Dr. Ahmad skillfully performed a repair that drastically reduced my recovery time. Then, just six weeks later, he addressed an osteochondral issue in my shoulder—a condition few doctors are familiar with—through another surgical procedure. Undergoing two surgeries within such a short span was intimidating, but Dr. Ahmad’s expertise and reassurance made all the difference.
By the end of that summer, I was back training with my teammates, a testament to Dr. Ahmad’s surgical skill and the comprehensive recovery plan he devised. Astonishingly, just 10 months after what could have been a career-ending scenario, I was pitching in intrasquad games. And in March of this year, I was able to step onto the mound against nationally ranked UC-Irvine in California, marking a significant milestone in my comeback.
Although I’m still on the journey to regain my pre-injury form, the progress I’ve made under Dr. Ahmad’s care is nothing short of miraculous. His ability to expedite my recovery while ensuring a strong rehabilitation foundation has not only returned me to the field faster than I ever imagined but has also imbued me with a newfound confidence in my abilities.
My experience with Dr. Ahmad and his team has been transformative, to say the least. From the meticulous care in the operating room to the unwavering support throughout my rehabilitation, Dr. Ahmad has played a pivotal role in shaping my future, both on and off the diamond. Words cannot fully express my gratitude for his dedication and the profound impact he has had on my life. Thank you, Dr. Ahmad, for everything.