The Day Everything Changed
April 2012 marked the beginning of a complete life change for Pastor Tim. While riding his bike as he did nearly every day (100-mile weeks were average), he was struck by a large automobile that ran a red light as he rode through a crosswalk.
He was rushed by ambulance to the hospital and spent several days in critical care. Surprisingly, no bones were broken but he could not move his legs. X-rays showed his spine resembled the letter “S.” He had sustained extensive soft tissue damage to his left hip, shoulder, neck, and back, and damage to his spinal cord.
In time, heavy doses of steroids reduced the swelling enough that he regained the ability to move his legs, though it was extremely painful to do so. Pastor Tim went home to the care of his wife, Marie. His daily bike rides appeared to be over as he relied on a wheelchair and walker to get around.
One day, while watching the Christian Television Network, he saw an ad for the SWFL Free Pain Clinic and called. Pastor Tim recalls his first appointment, “Dr. Gruning gave me a more thorough exam that day than they ever did at the hospital.”
Dr. Gruning developed a treatment protocol that included physical therapy, modalities like ultrasound and e-stim, chiropractic care, and massage therapy to treat his injuries and pain.
Pastor Tim was able to give up the use of a wheelchair within a short period of time, relying upon the walker alone. After about three years of treatment by the team at the SWFL Free Pain Clinic, Pastor Tim moved from a walker to a cane for mobility. With continued care, he has been able to walk without a cane since 2017!
Due to the extent of his injuries, Pastor Tim will need continued treatment for the foreseeable future. Although he may never be completely free of pain, it has been greatly reduced, and he continues to make progress. He shared that his range of motion and ability to resume some of the activities he did prior to the crash has been remarkable. He’s even taking short rides on a recumbent three-wheel trike now!
Another recent milestone: the swelling in his hand reduced significantly and after seven years, he is finally able to wear his wedding ring again! He attributes this improvement to acupuncture. “Dr. Becky is wonderful!” he exclaimed.
When talking about the atmosphere at the clinic, Pastor Tim’s joy is evident. “You really grow closer to other patients. You share progress and encourage one another when things are tough. We empathize, talk, ask questions, even pray together sometimes. Just coming here restores hope! The medical practitioners are open and honest – always willing to discuss your treatment regimen in detail with you, and they work closely together to provide the best possible care. It’s like a family, and they are all genuinely concerned about getting you better.” He says he is so grateful that Dr. Gruning and the rest of the providers never give up, never stop evaluating your health, and do everything possible to help you heal. He also appreciates the drug-free approach.
Pastor Tim encourages others struggling with pain not to give up either. “I have never received better medical care than I have at the SWFL Free Pain Clinic! Make an appointment. You will be amazed at your progress in just four to six months. There is hope!”
To help Pastor Tim and others who suffer debilitating pain, please make a monthly donation by clicking here. Any amount will make a difference in the life of someone with nowhere else to turn. Thank you!