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Quick, Compassionate Care That Saved My Toe

Gary L Watertown Patient standing on bridge in garden

Gary L. Jefferson resident and Watertown Regional Medical Center Patient

 

I've lived in Jefferson for 54 years, and because my wife worked at Watertown Regional Medical Center many years ago, I’ve always trusted the doctors there. That trust made all the difference this spring.

In early May, I noticed an open sore on the fourth toe of my left foot. After seeing a few providers, I was referred to the Wound Clinic in Johnson Creek. That’s where I was first told I might be at risk of losing my toe—and that’s when I was referred to Dr. Yaeggi at Rock River Foot & Ankle.

Concerned about circulation in my leg, Dr. Yaeggi suggested I undergo testing. My primary care provider referred me to a larger health system—but after waiting more than a week with no response, I went back to Dr. Yaeggi for help. He recommended I go to Watertown Regional Medical Center. He knew the team there and offered to reach out to them directly.

Within 10 to 15 minutes, I got a call—and I was in that same afternoon for testing. Talk about fast service.

The tests revealed four blockages below the knee and three completely blocked arteries in my left leg. I was told it would take about two weeks for insurance approval, which was spot on. On the day of the procedure, my son dropped me off, and everything went smoothly.

 

The care that you'll receive here is top notch

Dr. Volkert at Watertown Regional performed the procedure in the Cath Lab, successfully opening the blockages and restoring circulation. Thanks to the care I received, I’m healing well—and I’m not going to lose my toe.

The team at Watertown took excellent care of me. One nurse, Brian, even remembered me from a previous visit—it was great to see a familiar face.

I’m incredibly thankful for the quick, compassionate care I received. It made all the difference.