My Comeback Story: Amy H.

Prior to finding the Carrell Clinic and Dr. Andrew Dossett, I had been told surgery wasn't an option for my badly extruded spinal disc due to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder. I was referred to pain management, where I exhausted conservative treatments, some doing more harm than good. I was tired, discouraged, and struggling to keep up with life as an active 34-year-old trying to thrive in the midst of constant pain.

While I had accepted that my journey might look different because of EDS, I refused to accept that this was the most I could expect out of life. After meeting Dr. Dossett and having him review my case, everything changed. I had complete confidence in him from day one, and not just because of an impressive résumé. He gave me hope when I had almost run out of it, and I booked my surgery the same day.

On September 9, 2025, I underwent an L4-L5 microdiscectomy/laminectomy and began rebuilding the life I wanted to live. By the morning of surgery, my condition had progressed to the point where I couldn't walk more than a few feet without excruciating nerve pain, and I had developed a partial foot drop. When I woke up after surgery, I was able to walk completely normally. The relief was immediate.

Thanks to Dr. Dossett's exceptional skill and expertise, my post-operative pain was minimal, and I could hardly believe I had just undergone spine surgery. My recovery was remarkably smooth, and today, eight months post-op, I don't take a single ordinary moment for granted. I still take care to protect my spine and respect certain limitations, but I stay active, garden, and even give the occasional piggyback ride to my nephews.

My comeback isn't one dramatic moment or milestone. It's the little things that mean everything: walking and exercising without pain, being present while doing what I love, and having the freedom to participate in my own life. Those ordinary moments have become my greatest victories. Thank you to Dr. Dossett and all of the incredible physicians and staff at the Carrell Clinic for the care, compassion, and belief in a better future that you provide to so many patients. I know firsthand what a truly precious gift that is.