Patient Perspective

 

Reverend John Dennis* a 76 years old, very active Lutheran Minister who, per his own words, “can run circles around most people 20 year younger than me.”  But all of that that changed in May 2002.  He began to have severe low back pain and left leg pain to the point he was seen in the emergency room because the pain was so bad.  He was seen by Dr. Maroon in June 2002 and was found to have weakness of the left foot and difficulty walking any distance.  “I told Dr. Maroon I didn’t care whether I lived or died because I couldn’t take the pain much longer,” said the Reverend.

 

A MRI was done and showed a large herniated disc along with spinal stenosis at the L4-5 levels.  “I had the surgery on July 8th and was home by the 9th,” said the Reverend, “I was back to the church in one week and preaching a sermon two weeks after surgery.”  “My pain was immediately gone and the strength is back in my foot, and I am able to ride a stationary bike without a problem.   Overall, I feel this was a great success and I am back to myself again.”

 

* Reverend John Dennis has signed a released to permit the release of this personal information. We will not disclose any information unless the parties involved agree in writing. Reverend John Dennis chose to permit this information because of his gratitude to Dr. Maroon and his staff.

 

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 © 2006 Tri-State Neurosurgical Associates - UPMC

Last Updated: January 15, 2003