The Injury
My comeback story began in 2007, at a point in life when most people aren’t starting over, but I was.
After two divorces and a season of reflection, I made the decision to pursue a long-time dream of working in healthcare. I started as a medical assistant, determined to become a nurse.
But during a double shift, everything changed. While helping a quadriplegic patient, she suddenly fell back into me. I caught her—but in that instant, my back and knees buckled. I got her safely into bed, but I knew immediately… something was seriously wrong.
Ongoing Pain
That moment marked the beginning of years of chronic pain and uncertainty. While living in Georgia, I underwent three spine surgeries, including a microdiscectomy, followed by additional procedures after developing a staph infection.
Despite everything, the pain never truly went away. Day after day, I lived with discomfort—and the growing fear that this might just be my life.
Finding Help
Eventually, I returned to Alabama searching for answers...and for hope. With the help of my nurse case manager, I was referred to Dr. Andrew Cordover at Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center in Birmingham.
By the time I met him, I was dealing with a herniated disc and severe foot drop. I walked with a noticeable limp, and even basic movement had become a challenge.
Surgery & Recovery
After a thorough evaluation, we made the decision to move forward with lumbar fusion surgery. The results were immediate and life-changing. When I woke up, Dr. Cordover noticed my foot drop had already improved.
And when I stood up and took those first steps… the limp I had lived with for years was gone. For the first time in a long time, I felt something I hadn’t felt in years—hope.
Setbacks & Progress
My journey wasn’t over. Over time, I required additional procedures, including two double fusions, a laminectomy, and surgery to remove a hematoma.
Then last summer, the pain returned—worse than before—leaving me unable to stand upright. Once again, Dr. Cordover stepped in. He removed old hardware and performed another fusion, stabilizing my spine and restoring my posture.
Life Today
Today, my back is stronger and more stable. I still have some pain—but I can stand upright, walk without a limp, and live a more active, independent life. That’s something I don’t take for granted.
Why It Matters
What sets Andrews Sports Medicine apart isn’t just the procedures—it’s the people.
Dr. Cordover listens. He explains. He gives you confidence when you need it most. His team is responsive, compassionate, and always there when you need them. After all these years, they feel like family.
My comeback isn’t about being pain-free. It’s about standing tall again.
