I had Hidradenitis suppurativa for 25 years before I met Dr. Culbertson. I had multiple surgeries over the years. About 15 months ago, I went to another surgeon referred by my dermatologist. The surgeon was great and helped me with my current flare-up, but also took the time to refer me to someone whome he said, “Specializes in HS patients”. I quickly made an appointment with Dr. Culbertson’s office. It was an hour drive from my house but I was so excited to have found someone who may actually be knowledgeable and concerned about my disease.

When I met Dr. Culbertson, I was very impressed. She was friendly and easy to talk to. She was very positive and seemed knowledgeable about HS and the lifestyle changes the disease has on people. We discussed plans for surgery to remove affected tissue and scars. We discussed using VAC therapy after surgery to aid in the healing of the incisions and to reduce the chances of infection. The VAC would also be more comfortable than changing dressings every day. The surgery planned seemed very extensive, but I was so excited to try.

Since my initial visit to Dr. Culbertson’s office, I have had three surgeries. The first was the most extensive. The first week after the surgery was the most difficult, and at times a bit overwhelming, but Dr. Culbertson was very calming and reassuring.

Dr. Culbertson likes to follow up with her patients at the Wound Care Center at the hospital. My first appointment at the Wound Care Center was 2 hours long – to remove my VAC, retention sutures and to replace the VAC, but when I left there I felt like a new person. The staff at the Wound Care Center is great. Everyone is knowledgeable and very focused on patient privacy and comfort. My other two surgeries were not nearly as difficult, but I still received the same quality of care and individual attention.

When I think about all that has happened during the past year, I get a little tearful. I now am not wearing any dressings for the first time in over five years and have the best looking scars I’ve ever had. Dr. Culbertson is an amazing physician, she is not afraid to be inventive or to think outside of the box. She welcomes suggestions from her patients and others. She is willing to be creative and do what works best for each individual situation.

If asked to describe my experience with Dr. Culbertson, I would have to say – life changing. She truly has changed my life for the better, and I am so thankful.

Connie Baldwin