The silver lining to a serious injury can be found in the most unexpected places, as Lindsey Vonn’s sister, Karin Kildow, discovered during the skiing icon’s recent hospital stay in Italy. Following a crash during the women’s downhill event at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Games, Vonn underwent leg surgery at the Ca’ Foncello hospital in Treviso, Italy, and Kildow playfully highlighted a surprising benefit of the situation: the attractive medical staff.
Kildow shared a humorous Instagram Reel on February 16th, set to Natalie Cole’s “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” featuring clips of male doctors and nurses at the hospital. The caption read, “Delete your dating apps and just go to an Italian emergency room,” quickly going viral and offering a lighthearted moment amidst the seriousness of Vonn’s injury. Kildow’s post also included a sincere thank you to the “truly kind and caring doctors and nurses” who assisted her sister.
Vonn herself shared a health update on February 14th, stating that her surgery “went well” and expressing gratitude for her upcoming return to the United States. The crash brought an unexpected halt to her Olympic return, requiring multiple surgeries. She was discharged from the hospital on February 17th and returned to the U.S. To continue her recovery, including a fifth surgery and rehabilitation.
The lighthearted post resonated widely, prompting a humorous response from many online. However, it also drew attention to the quality of care Vonn received in Italy. Francesco Benazzi, the director general of the local health authority (Usl 2), commented on the viral post, expressing his pleasure at Kildow’s appreciation. He noted the hospital’s focus on recruiting young specialists and acknowledged the positive impact of the staff’s appearance, stating, “If you enter a hospital for a fracture and leave talking about beauty, it means someone, besides operating on you, made you feel safe.”
Benazzi emphasized the importance of humanizing care, highlighting the role of empathy and solidarity in the healing process. He also pointed out that the hospital has been receiving numerous messages of thanks and flowers following the incident. He jokingly contrasted the physiques of Italian doctors with those of their American counterparts, noting the Italian staff’s more natural build.
While Kildow’s post was intended as a playful observation, it inadvertently shone a spotlight on the Italian healthcare system and the dedication of its medical professionals. Benazzi suggested that the positive experience Vonn had at the hospital, coupled with the kindness and care she received, contributed to her feeling secure and optimistic during her recovery. He even playfully suggested that the hospital might need to introduce a “heartbreak” triage code to accommodate those seeking medical attention for romantic reasons.
The incident underscores the importance of not only medical expertise but also the human connection between patients and their caregivers. As Vonn begins her rehabilitation journey back home, the memory of the compassionate and attentive care she received in Italy, and her sister’s humorous take on it, will likely serve as a source of encouragement.
