Our Team
La Torre’s practitioners are all ABC certified, which is the highest certification in the orthotic and prosthetic field. The practitioners are highly trained to provide comprehensive care to patients, including assessment, treatment planning, implementation, follow-up, and practice management.
Zachary Lacy, C.P.
President & Clinical Director
EDUCATION: Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine - Prosthetics and Orthotics Center
CERTIFICATION: 2013 ABC Certified Prosthetist
Zach is the President and Clinical Director at La Torre Orthopedic Laboratory, where he has been providing prosthetic care for patients for many years. Zach is a fourth-generation practitioner in the La Torre family and he took over as President in 2021. He has been passionate about prosthetics since his teenage years when he started working as a technician in his family's practice.
Zach is an ABC Certified Prosthetist and has received his graduate degrees in prosthetics and orthotics from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, for his Orthotic and Prosthetic degree. He is dedicated to improving the quality of life of his amputee patients and specializes in using the latest technologies and componentry to provide the best care possible.
Zach's passion for prosthetics has led him to be an active member of the O&P industry. He is committed to providing the highest quality care to his patients and is dedicated to keeping La Torre Orthopedic Laboratory a family-oriented and patient-centered practice, much like his father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
Timothy Lacy, C.P.
Vice President, Past President
EDUCATION: Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine - Prosthetics and Orthotics Center
CERTIFICATION: 1984 ABC Certified Prosthetist
Tim is a highly experienced third-generation practitioner at La Torre Orthopedic Laboratory, with almost 40 years of clinical and administrative expertise. He is deeply committed to improving the quality of life for his patients, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Dick La Torre. Tim has played an active and crucial role in the O&P industry at both the state and national levels, serving on various boards and committees. He is a former Director of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), becoming the youngest person ever to hold the position. Tim was also instrumental in introducing CAD/CAM technology to La Torre in the 1980s, making it one of the first O&P practices in the US to implement this innovative technology. He was among the first prosthetists in New York to begin fitting microprocessor knee systems.
After serving as president for the past 25 years, Tim has stepped down and now serves as vice president at La Torre, mentoring his son Zachary to carry on the family tradition of providing exceptional patient care. Tim's vast experience and leadership have been invaluable to the growth and success of La Torre Orthopedic Laboratory.
Melissa Washco, C.P.O.
Director of Orthotics
EDUCATION: Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine - Prosthetics and Orthotics Center
CERTIFICATION: 2012 ABC Certified Prosthetist Orthotist
Melissa is a highly skilled and experienced orthotist who serves as the Director of Orthotics and lead orthotist at La Torre. She joined the team in 2011 and brings extensive experience in custom lower extremity bracing to her patients. Melissa is an ABC Certified Prosthetist Orthotist and specializes in providing pediatric care.
Melissa's passion for treating pediatric patients has led her to be an active member at several interdisciplinary clinics, where she works with children with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, and Spina Bifida. She holds several advanced training certificates, including C-Brace, Cranial Remodeling Orthosis (CRO), and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES).
Melissa earned her Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Western New England University before pursuing her graduate Orthotics and Prosthetics degrees from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. She completed her dual residency training at University of Rochester Medical Center.
At La Torre, Melissa is known for her compassionate care and dedication to her patients. She works closely with each patient to develop customized orthotic solutions to help them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
John Levillee, C.O.
Certified Orthotist
EDUCATION: The College of St. Rose
CERTIFICATION: 2003 ABC Certified Orthotist
Meet John, an experienced orthotic practitioner who joined La Torre in 2021, bringing with him over 30 years of invaluable experience in the orthotics and prosthetics industry. John's journey in the field began at the age of 16, starting as a technician and gradually evolving into a highly skilled practitioner known for his excellent hand skills.
Certified by ABC in 2003, John's commitment to upholding professional standards serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to providing the best possible outcomes for his patients. With his vast experience and expertise, John is well-versed in treating patients at all levels of orthotic intervention, specializing in crafting custom solutions tailored to each individual's unique needs.
However, it is within the realms of Cranial Remolding Helmets (CMOs) and Scoliosis Bracing where John's true passion lies. These areas have become the focal points of his career, where he has achieved remarkable results, transforming the lives of countless patients.
For CMOs, John's dedication and experience in treating infants with head shape abnormalities such as plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and craniosynostosis, to find comfort and improved skull symmetry is evident. His gentle care and attention to detail ensure optimal outcomes for the youngest patients under his care.
When it comes to Scoliosis Bracing, you’re in great hands. John’s understanding of the complex spinal conditions and his ability to design effective bracing solutions have garnered him a reputation for achieving exceptional results. With extensive training in various scoliosis bracing techniques, John is well-equipped to provide the support and guidance needed for patients managing this challenging condition.
John's warm and family-oriented approach fosters a caring environment for his patients. Born and raised locally in Burnt Hills, he understands the importance of building lasting relationships with the community he serves.
Janine Rose Fizer
Director of Business Operations
Janine is a seasoned professional who has been part of the La Torre family for over 23 years. As the Business Operations Director, she is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the front office and ensuring that the practice runs smoothly. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Janine brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.
Janine's top priority is to ensure that our patients receive the highest level of care possible. She leads the front office team in providing exceptional customer service and ensures that our patients are well taken care of from the moment they walk through our doors. Her attention to detail and organizational skills are critical in ensuring that our practice operates efficiently and effectively.
Over the years, Janine has played a key role in the growth and success of La Torre Orthopedic Laboratory. She is known for her hard work and dedication, and her contributions to the practice are invaluable. Her passion for helping others and her commitment to excellence make her an asset to our team.
Janine is the Business Operations Director at La Torre, with over 33 years of experience in the industry. She has been with La Torre for 23 years and has played an integral role in the success of the practice. Janine is responsible for overseeing the front office operations and ensuring that our patients receive the highest level of prosthetic and orthotic care possible. Her extensive knowledge of the industry and exceptional organizational skills have made her an invaluable member of the La Torre team. Janine is dedicated to creating a positive and welcoming experience for our patients from the moment they enter our doors.
Robert Desimone
Director of Technical Services
Robert is a highly skilled master craftsman with over 30 years of experience in the orthotic and prosthetic field. As the Director of Technical Services at La Torre, Robert is responsible for overseeing the fabrication of all orthotic and prosthetic devices, ensuring that they are of the highest quality and completed in a timely manner.
Robert has a reputation for being incredibly detail-oriented and possessing exceptional hand skills. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to La Torre, constantly seeking out new techniques and technologies to improve the fabrication process and the end products.
Robert is known for his strong work ethic and his ability to work effectively under pressure. He is a vital member of the La Torre team, and his contributions have helped to establish the practice as a leader in the field of orthotics and prosthetics