Nestor's recovery story: Healing through music

As a Grammy Award-winning flutist, Nestor Torres has spent his time in the spotlight, but at age 68, the pain in his left hip made it almost unbearable to keep performing.

Nestor had long battled osteoarthritis in his left hip, a condition that was worsened by scoliosis and injuries sustained in a boating accident more than 35 years ago.

The accident left him with a collapsed lung and 18 fractured ribs. “No one was paying attention to how my bones were healing,” Torres said. “Once they took the tube out of my lungs, I was able to heal.”

Years later, the pain in his left hip became impossible to ignore. “My sister recommended I consult a physician,” he said. “I spent a lot of time on stage, and my left hip was hurting and eventually something had to be done.”

Finding hope

Torres had a total left hip replacement. However, he needed time to recover from surgery before he would return to performing.

His partner, Kimberly, who works in home health, was concerned about his recovery and level of support at home, and recommended he go to Encompass Health Rehabilitation, an affiliate of Martin Health, where he could receive intensive therapy and the medical care he needed to return home.

“Prior to surgery, we called them and asked for a tour,” he said. “Ashley was a gracious young lady, and the facility looked nice. The challenge was that we didn’t know if any beds would be available. So we contacted the marketing liaison, and we were thrilled when they had availability. That’s when my journey began.”

The road to recovery

While at Encompass Health, he had one goal in mind: to get better and return to the stage. He spent three hours a day, five days a week in intensive therapy, supported by his dedicated care team. “My therapists were phenomenal,” Nestor said. “Each of them had their own way of doing things and brought something unique to my recovery. I still use their advice today.”

He also praised the outstanding level of support his medical team provided and the hospital’s food.

“The meals were very well balanced, and I could tell they took their time with preparation — the quality was great,” he said. “What stood out the most was the quality of care from the nurses. I appreciated their flexibility and how they respected my boundaries while I was healing.”

Sharing joy through music

Caroline Padilla, a physical therapy assistant at Encompass Health, was amazed at the strength and resilience Nestor had to get better, even during his most challenging days.

“He faced each challenge with courage and never lost his positive spirit,” Padilla said. “Nestor’s ability to push through discomfort, to stay engaged and trust the process showed not only physical strength, but also deep inner resilience that truly inspired those around him.”

During his recovery, Nestor found ways to uplift others. He brought joy to fellow patients through his music and even performed for them during his stay.

“Many were moved not just by his talent but by the emotion and warmth he brought into the room,” Padilla said. “His music created a sense of peace and inspiration, and it was clear that his presence uplifted everyone. Some smiled, others had tears. Each person felt a special connection through his performance. I also felt very proud when he mentioned Puerto Rico and dedicated a song to us.”

A care team of compassion

During therapy, even the smallest gestures from his care team made a lasting impression.

“There was this gentleman who had quite a few health conditions,” Nestor said. “We were doing group therapy sessions, and the therapist made a simple act of kindness that captured my attention by fixing his blanket. It was gentle and a powerful display of compassion.”

Now, Nestor is focused on regaining his strength and mobility at home, as well as returning to the stage.

“I am excited to continue my recovery, regain my strength and mobility and follow the directions of my therapists,” he said. “In just four weeks, I’ll be back on the road and ready to perform again. At my age, it feels like a fresh beginning, and I’m embracing every moment of it.”