Help Me Get Back on My Feet – L4–L5 ADR Back Surgery Recovery

Goal: $13,000

Hello friends,

Many of you know me and know that I have been dealing with back pain for over 20 years. For a long time, I was able to manage it and push through. Over the last two years, however, the pain has become chronic and progressively worse, affecting nearly every part of daily life.

I have tried everything possible to avoid surgery—red light therapy, TENS and electrical stimulation, injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), prescription medications, massage, and stretching. Unfortunately, nothing has worked. The pain has continued to worsen and is now affecting my leg muscles and knees. This is preventing me from working out.

Last month, I underwent knee surgery, and recovery has been a little more difficult than expected due to my ongoing back issues. After meeting with several Georgia doctors and carefully reviewing my options, I made the decision to move forward with back surgery in late February.

There are surgeons in Georgia who perform artificial disc replacement, and I consulted with them. Most only work on the neck though. After reviewing my case, it became clear that lumbar ADR at L4–L5 requires a level of experience that is not commonly performed here. When I mentioned the Texas Back Institute to one Georgia doctor, his response was simply, “Yes.” That response spoke volumes.

Texas Back Institute reviewed my MRI and imaging and confirmed that Artificial Disc Replacement is the right solution for my condition—and that they can fix it. Their 25 years of experience and specialization in L4–L5 ADR gave me confidence that this is the best path forward. ADR preserves motion, avoids fusion, has a faster recovery, and offers the best chance at long-term relief :)

While I’m positive, I know I still have a long road ahead. I plan to still work through much of my recovery and physical therapy with the goal of regaining my strength and my ability to fully provide for my family again (New Years Goal). For nearly two years, life has been on hold because of constant pain, and I’m more than ready to fight to reclaim a pain free life (or less pain).

My wife has been incredible throughout all of this—a true survivor and warrior in every sense. If you know me, you know exactly what that means. I could not walk this road without her.

How the $13,000 Will Be Used

The funds raised will help cover essential, non-covered expenses related to surgery and recovery, including:

Flights to and from Texas

Lodging for 8 days during recovery

Meals while in Texas

Uber transportation to and from airports and medical appointments

Co-Pays

Paying down a high-interest credit card balance that has grown due to ongoing medical and home-repair expenses, helping reduce financial strain during recovery

This past year has been especially difficult, with significant medical costs and unexpected home repairs. While I could place additional expenses on credit cards, they are already nearly maxed out (about $10,000), and I’m doing my best to avoid sinking further into debt while focusing on healing.

I understand that many people are facing financial strain, and I do not ask for help lightly. Any contribution is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give financially, your encouragement and PRAYERS mean just as much.

“The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.”

— Psalm 41:3

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

— 2 Corinthians 9:7

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

Happy New Year,

Chuck