Conditions + Treatments
Spine Injury/Condition
XLIF (Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion)
When the back pain first struck, I was terrified. As a 77-year-old who lives an active life - traveling to Congo, managing a boat in European waterways, and continuing my ministry - the thought of being immobilized was devastating. It happened while I was lifting heavy batteries on my boat, a moment that felt like the final straw after years of chronic back pain.
I remember sitting in Dr. Daniel Kim's office, feeling skeptical. Here was this young surgeon, and I thought to myself, "I've got shoes older than this man." But something about him was different. He explained the surgical procedure with such precision and care that I began to feel hope.
The surgical approach, XLIF at L3-L4 with robotic assistance, was unlike anything I'd heard before. Dr. Kim planned a two-stage procedure - first approaching through my side to clean out debris and prepare the area, then later addressing the core issue through my back. When I asked about getting a second opinion, he encouraged me, even connecting with colleagues across the country to confirm the best approach.
I consulted another orthopedic surgeon in Mobile, Alabama, who confirmed Dr. Kim's recommended procedure. The day of surgery, I was nervous but hopeful. The team at the hospital team was incredible - supportive, kind, and reassuring.
The recovery was nothing short of miraculous. I expected weeks of immobility, but within days, I was up and moving. Each day, I became stronger. I could hardly believe it when I started physical therapy and found myself rapidly regaining strength.
What amazed me most was how quickly I returned to my full life. I was back to traveling bumpy roads in Congo, managing my boat, and continuing my ministry.
My friends couldn't believe the transformation. Of the four friends who had similar back issues, none had undergone the precise procedure Dr. Kim performed. I became a walking testimony to modern surgical techniques and the power of expert medical care.
Throughout the process, I felt supported not just by the medical team but by my faith community. Friends flew in to pray for me, sending emails of support and laying hands on me before the surgery. I truly believe that while Dr. Kim did the surgical work, God was ultimately in control of my healing.
Now, I continue to live life to the fullest - a testament to the possibility of recovery, regardless of age. My message remains the same: with faith, the right medical care, and a determination to keep moving forward, miracles are possible.
