Frozen Resolve, Warm Hearts: Tristan Glanville’s Journey from Injury to Compassionate Healing
On a crisp winter day along the back trails of Lake Placid, Tristan Glanville was skiing on a trail he had traversed countless times before, confident in its familiar embrace and the serene beauty of nature. The snow-covered landscape and the gentle crunch of his skis on fresh powder painted a picture of tranquility—until one sudden misstep changed everything. In an instant, Tristan suffered a severe shoulder injury, dislocating his joint and tearing tendons.
Deep in the snow, Tristan faced a heart-wrenching decision. Afraid to stop moving for fear of worsening his condition, he embarked on an arduous trek—a mile-long hike back to his car. Each painful step in the biting cold was a testament to his resilience, and his desperate need for help propelled him forward until he finally reached the shelter of his vehicle.
From there, Tristan's journey took him to the emergency department at Adirondack Health, where a new chapter in his recovery began. The ER staff greeted him with immediate, compassionate care, a perfect blend of clinical efficiency and genuine empathy. Swift diagnostic tests and X-rays confirmed the extent of his injuries, and it wasn’t long before a familiar and reassuring face emerged.
Dr. Smith, a trusted friend and medical advisor for over 15 years, arrived to assess Tristan’s condition. With calm demeanor and expert insight, Dr. Smith explained the severity of the injury and outlined the necessary steps, including a surgical intervention scheduled for this spring and a recovery period estimated at least six months. His clear explanations and reassuring presence not only eased Tristan’s immediate fears but also instilled hope for a complete recovery.
As Tristan’s journey progressed, his physical therapy sessions emerged as a beacon of hope. Under the skilled guidance of the dedicated rehabilitation team at Adirondack Health, each session became a vital step toward reclaiming his strength and mobility. Tristan is profoundly grateful for the exceptional care he received from every corner of the hospital, from the efficient registration support provided by Jerry Stewart to the compassionate expertise of PT therapists Heather Fehlner and Amanda Rickett. Their commitment and personalized attention exemplify what Tristan believes is the greatest resource any organization can have: its people, especially in healthcare.
Tristan’s experience—marked by a grueling trek through deep snow, the compassionate rush of ER care, the steady guidance of Dr. Smith, and the transformative work of his physical therapy team—has become a powerful testament to resilience, the profound impact of Adirondack Health’s support, and the belief that caring, committed people can make all the difference. By choosing to share his story through Honoring Helping Hands and Hearts, a Grateful Patient & Family Program at Adirondack Health, Tristan honors every caregiver who played a pivotal role in his recovery.
If you are interested in sharing your story of staff who went above and beyond, please click here to visit our Honoring Helping Hands and Hearts Portal.
