Legacy of Lights-
Eric’s Story

Each holiday season, Quincy’s Wavering Park transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, drawing families from across the region to experience the Festival of Lights. Behind the shimmering displays are Eric D. and his family, who dedicate countless hours over several months to bring this beloved community tradition to life. Yet for years, Eric struggled to fully embrace the work he loved. 

“I didn’t hit the DNA lottery,” Eric jokes about his health history. From knee pain to other medical challenges, he turned to Quincy Medical Group (QMG) for help. Thanks to the care of the QMG team, he has regained his ability to give back to the community in the ways that matter most to him. 

For decades, Eric has suffered from knee pain, the result of a high school ACL injury and reconstructive surgery. By age 50, walking without pain had become a daily struggle, and the physically demanding work of setting up the Festival of Lights felt nearly impossible. 

“The pain was preventing me from doing the things I wanted to do—both at work and outside of work,” he said. “We all have responsibilities that don’t stop just because you need joint replacement. We make commitments at home, at work, and in the community, and I didn’t want to let anyone down. But it became more and more of a struggle for my family and me.” 

He began treatment with Nurse Practitioner Mary Beth Decker, part of QMG’s Orthopedics & Sports Medicine team. Pain management techniques and injections provided some relief, but as the pain worsened, Eric and his care team decided it was time for a knee replacement surgery with QMG Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. George Crickard, III.   

“Dr. Crickard resonated with me when he talked about what post-recovery would be like. While many people focus on what you won’t be able to do after surgery, he focused on the many things I’d be able to do pain-free after surgery,” Eric shared.  

Timing was crucial. The Festival of Lights is a year-round labor of love for Eric’s family, with work beginning in August. Surgery was scheduled for April, ensuring enough recovery time before the next season. The results were life-changing. “I’m not limping anymore, and I had a limp for years where I was always favoring my right leg,” Eric said. “The difference is dramatic. Being able to help in the way I want at the park, with my family, and participate in the Festival of Lights without pain—it’s really changed everything for me.”  

For Eric’s family, the Festival of Lights is more than just a holiday display; it’s a legacy. Eric’s wife designs the layout each year, while his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren also help bring the vision to life.  

“There are times when you're exhausted and wondering, ‘What are we doing with our lives?” he shared. “But then we hear from people every year—through our Facebook page, via email, and in person—telling us that this is a family tradition that’s meaningful for them. At first, you don’t realize it, but over time, you come to realize you’re part of something much bigger than yourself.”  

Thanks to the care he received at QMG, Eric is confident he’ll continue contributing to this beloved tradition for years to come.