A Bad Bounce

Years ago, while playing basketball with some friends, Michael took a hard fall on his backside. The pain was severe, but he was in front of the guys, so he tried to just walk it off. It hurt for weeks but figured he was young; it would be fine eventually.

It was not until eleven years later when the pain in his lower back had become debilitating that he got some x-rays and found out that fall caused a compound fracture. The images also revealed a hereditary issue with the curvature of his spine. He began going to the chiropractor as frequently as his finances allowed. The treatment helped him regain function, but pain had become a constant in his life.

About four years ago, everything fell apart for Michael. He lost his job and no longer had the resources to keep his own place. He would stay on couches of different friends as long as he was welcome. He went into debt to continue receiving the chiropractic care that kept him moving but eventually he could no longer afford it. He was nearly disabled from the pain and found it incredibly difficult to concentrate and look for a job. His anxiety grew as he feared for the future.

One day a friend heard about the Southwest Florida Free Pain Clinic. She told Michael it was operating out of a church and maybe he could get some help there. He hoped it was not too good to be true and was amazed when he came in for his first appointment.

After a very thorough exam, Dr. Gruning developed a treatment plan that included physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, ultrasound, and muscle stimulation. He came every week for treatment and was amazed at his improvement. In time, he needed treatment only every few months and he was able to work again. Michael said he is so thankful to God that the Southwest Florida Free Pain Clinic exists to help people in agonizing pain who cannot afford to get the care they need to heal.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic caused him to lose his job, as did so many people in our community. Michael took advantage of the time on his hands to go back to school online to work on several certifications that will help him gain better employment. The stress of the global health crisis combined with many hours sitting in front of a computer took a toll on his lower back, however. He called the clinic for help once again.

Michael loves coming to our new facility and having the opportunity to receive treatment twice a week. He was also surprised by how much adding acupuncture to the other holistic care he receives is helping his pain. Just as valuable, he shared, is the warm, family feel of coming to the clinic and the donated food he can take home. “Every experience I’ve had at the clinic is positive. This place is a miracle! Sometimes the darkest times can really bring about the biggest blessings!”

There are so many people in our community like Michael who have lost their jobs and benefits, who are in pain from injuries of long ago, who have nowhere else to go for help. You can be part of someone’s journey to healing by making a monthly donation to the Southwest Florida Free Pain Clinic. One of our generous monthly donors told me her family’s monthly gift is like getting a subscription to giving someone hope and quality of life. “It’s one of our most important subscriptions!”

Click here to start your subscription to restoring someone’s quality of life back and giving them hope for a better tomorrow!