My name is Matt Johnson. This last Friday, September 27, 2024, I went to the ER with extreme back pain. I knew I had a bulging disk and I even had an appointment scheduled for an epidural pain injection as a first step in the pain management process. I could barely walk, let alone drive, so I was transported by ambulance to St. Vincent ER in Little Rock. The staff on duty quickly recognized the level of pain I was in and worked to find me a room while administering pain meds. I recounted my history with this issue to the nurses.

Sometime around 6-8 months ago, I developed a pain in my lower back that eventually radiated down my right side. It would come and go, but was sometimes severe. I had X-rays and an MRI on my hip to rule out any structural issues, and nothing abnormal was seen. The next step was a lumbar MRI. This showed a bulging disk between the L4 and L5 vertebrae. The next step was an epidural pain injection, which was scheduled for early October and takes us back to September 27, 2024. The pain was too extreme to ignore, and the medicine which had managed the situation up to that point was no longer effective. A CT scan in the ER showed a ruptured disk. I met with a surgeon, and he explained to me the nerves in the area of my ruptured disk were causing further complications because I was unable to void my bladder. He told me I would need emergency surgery to correct the problem, and it would be happening that night.

I'm 49 years old, and I'd never had surgery of any kind. And my first time was going to be emergency surgery. I can't lie, I was a little overwhelmed. I called my mom, who started crying the minute she heard the word surgery. My sister and nephew were able to see me before I went to surgery prep. I'm now 4 days post-op and doing reasonably well. I can't bend, lift, or twist for at least 8 weeks. I'm beyond fortunate that my nephew is able to stay with me during this time and quite literally be my arms and legs.

Unfortunately, I won't be able to work for at least 8 weeks, possibly 12 depending on my progress. FMLA will hold my job for me, but it's an unpaid leave. And as I'm sure I don't have to tell anyone, life and bills keep going. I'm asking for a little help with bills these next few months, until I can work again. I don't like asking for help, but I've made a point in my life of trying to meet people where they are. This is currently where I am. Give whatever you can and please don't feel obligated. Each and every gift will be appreciated more than you know.