The APF Video Project

Jim (and Michelle)

Jim realized he had a serious spine problem in January of 2007. While at work, changing the water cooler jug (the fifty-five pound kind that no one else volunteers to lift), something popped in his lower back. With the immediate onset of pain, he wriggled to his boss’ office and explained what happened. That event launched his journey through the maze of healthcare woes: worker’s compensation, doctors’ offices and problem-solving.

Jim’s problem was unlike many patients from the ADRSupport community: within just a few days, he went from a symptom-free life to very high pain levels (he explained 7-8 pre-op) after the injury. Because of the pain, he couldn’t continue with his busy job in retail, which required physical activities like moving heavy boxes and carrying merchandise. Taking leave, he struggled to find ways to stave off the pain; but NSAIDs and even cortisone injections didn’t help. He used that time to visit several different spine doctors. While his doctors’ diagnoses for the “pancaked” L5-S1 were the same, the treatment options were different. Then came the tough part: deciding the next steps.

Jim spoke eloquently about his decision-making process: how he discussed it with his wife Michelle, how they communicated with patients from ADRSupport and how they sorted through the mounds of information to separate the “wheat from the chaff.” By listening to him talk about the decision process and see how animated his facial expressions were, I was glad we captured it all on camera!

Michelle also talked about the patient advocacy role — one of support, care and love that she provided to Jim each step of the way. She also spoke of church fellowship and how that played a key role in their lives during those brutal times before surgery. Meeting them, enjoying their company and hearing their story was interesting for me. Hopefully, their personal account on the final film will illuminate the intricate baby steps patients must take to make complex surgical decisions. If this instructive lesson is not conveyed in the final film, well then, Moki and I really goofed.  ; )

Jim had a one-level Charite’ L5-S1 and is now five months post-op. He explained last month he was a “lot better than expected.” His energy is “way back to normal,” but he did have some unusual symptoms with his foot. We’ll catch up with him soon to see how he’s doing…