How Determination Helped Patient Find Her Stride Again

At 71, Gwen Tupaz walks with confidence and gratitude. After years of debilitating knee pain that left her struggling to stand, move or even cook, she says she’s finally living freely again. Her recovery is thanks to two successful total knee replacement surgeries and the compassionate care she received from her Sutter Health orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Alexis Gaskin.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Tupaz built a fulfilling life rooted in education, service and perseverance. A former economist for the Philippine government and later a human resources professional at Sacramento State University, she has always been known for her work ethic and active spirit. But several years ago, chronic knee pain began to slow her down.

“The pain was excruciating,” Tupaz recalls. “Every morning was a struggle. I couldn’t walk without help, and it was so frustrating because I’ve always been independent.”

Despite physical therapy, injections and nerve treatments, nothing brought lasting relief. To make matters worse, her doctors at the time advised against surgery because she was on dialysis for diabetes-related kidney disease. They warned her of possible infection and even amputation.

Tupaz refused to accept that as the final answer.

“I told myself, I can’t be in pain forever,” she says.

With the support of her nephrologist, she sought care outside her previous system and was referred to Dr. Gaskin.

“The first thing Dr. Gaskin said to me was, ‘We’re not going to go there. I’m here to heal you, not to scare you,’” Tupaz remembers. “Right then, I knew she was the doctor for me.”

“Meeting Ms. Tupaz and seeing her despair as she was told no so many times, but becoming more and more limited was disheartening,” Dr. Gaskin said. “She was in pain and needed help. As a total joint specialist, at a high-level center with all the resources for support, I wanted to help and knew I had the team to be successful.”

In February 2025, Tupaz had her right knee replaced. Three months later, she was walking without a cane. By May, she was ready for the second surgery.

“Recovery went so well,” she says. “The care team listened, encouraged me and made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. Even the anesthesiologist took my concerns seriously.”

Tupaz smiles as she recalls how Dr. Gaskin even stopped by the hospital on her day off to check on her recovery.

Now pain-free, Tupaz is back to volunteering, shopping and planning future travels — activities that once felt impossible.

“I tell my friends, don’t give up. Advocate for yourself. If one doctor says no, find another. It’s your body, you have to fight for it.”

“Both surgeries proceeded well,” Dr. Gaskin added. “She was the dedicated patient she promised to be and worked hard. Seeing her without any assistive devices (cane or walker) and smiling is why I love what I do.”

For Gwen Tupaz, the journey wasn’t just about healing her knees. It was about reclaiming her independence and inspiring others to believe that better days are possible.