Sur-Thriving: How I Transformed My Pain Into Power

I’ve never shared my story in a public forum, but I believe it’s time—not just for my own healing, but to inspire and support others. For a long time, I feared that revealing my struggles with my health would alter perceptions of my abilities and negatively impact my ability to attract and retain clients.?

Now that I have not only survived but thrived on the other side of that journey, I’m eager to share my experiences and the invaluable lessons I have learned, both professionally and personally.

Here's What Happened...

For over seven years, I endured debilitating back pain that profoundly impacted my daily life. I struggled to identify the root cause of my symptoms, and during those challenging years, I found myself unable to sit, walk, work, or engage in social activities. Each meeting, event, or social gathering was met with excruciating pain, making it feel as if my entire body was on fire, and no one would offer me even a glass of water.?

After countless procedures, injections, and multiple surgeries, I was faced with the grim reality that if a solution wasn’t found, I would soon be confined to a wheelchair.?

After much deliberation and grappling with fear, I underwent multi-level spinal fusion surgery on July 29, 2023. This intricate procedure involved removing a disc and placing a metal cage between my spine and multiple vertebrae on both sides of my spinal cord.? Titanium spacers, combined with multiple levels of bone grafting, were used to replace my discs.

The incredible news? I am completely healed and, for the first-time in 7 years, pain free! The success rate for this surgery is only 17% due to its complexity, and I am thrilled to be part of that remarkable group. This surgery has restored, not only my physical health, but also my professional life. Beyond regular physical therapy, I am back to 100% physically and 1000% mentally.

Recently, I encountered the term “trauma dumping,” and while I won’t dwell on the hardships of living with chronic pain for so long, I am here to celebrate the excitement of my successful surgery, the joy of reclaiming my life, and the invaluable lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Now, eight months after returning to work, I’ve rebuilt my office, expanded our services, evolved our process, and secured multiple new clients.

Here’s What I’ve Learned:

→ Decide What’s Most Important

Before my surgery, any physical movement was agonizing. I had to evaluate which events were worth the pain, including work commitments. This experience taught me to discern what truly matters. When every activity requires a cost-benefit analysis regarding pain, you quickly learn what is essential and what is not. I discovered that suffering is optional.

What I learned personally:?

Understanding what’s important in your life is a profound lesson. It helps you focus on areas that require improvement and potentially eliminate distractions. It forces you to be deliberate about your choices and consider how you spend your time and with whom.

What I learned professionally:?

Prioritization doesn’t mean doing everything; it means identifying what only you can do versus what can be delegated.

→ Piling On

I was incredibly fortunate to participate in the 30-day intensive pain program at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. One of the key lessons I learned there was the true meaning of "catastrophic." Additionally, I discovered the dangers of “catastrophizing.” As a former theater kid, I know that being overly dramatic can sometimes be part of the role. Life already brings its own complexities and challenges; we don’t need to complicate matters further by overloading any situation or leaping too far into an uncertain future.

What I learned personally:?

When we catastrophize, we remove ourselves from the present moment and project fears about the future, leading to anxiety that clouds our judgment. By staying present and simplifying situations, we can make fact-based decisions. Discarding the narratives we create allows us to confront the truth of our circumstances.

What I learned personally:?

From major decisions to meeting talking points, simplicity is key! Clear, concise conversations and straightforward decision-making save time and eliminate confusion.

→ Ask for What You Need

For those who know me, asking for help has never been my strong suit. Whether as an actor or a business owner, both careers can feel solitary, and there’s often an expectation of having all the answers.?

However, when limited physically, I had no choice but to seek help. My friends provided unwavering support during this challenging time. I can’t count how many times I needed a friend to pick me up from the hospital or assist with basic tasks like preparing food or managing prescriptions. There was even a moment when I had to ask my dear friend to come over and help me wash dishes and take out the trash. Thanks to my incredible friends and family, I am here today. Asking for help was harder for me than it was for them to provide it, and I am eternally grateful for their support.

What I learned personally:

When you need help, ask for it. People genuinely want to be there for you.

What I learned professionally:

As business leaders, we often believe we should have all the answers. However, it’s essential to acknowledge when we don’t know something and to ask for support when needed.

→ There’s Always Hope:?

What I have learned above all else is that there is always hope. Even in the most challenging circumstances—amidst unimaginable pain and seemingly insurmountable obstacles—you have the power to transform your life or your business. With determination, clarity, and the support of remarkable people, you can rebuild and create a life you never dreamt possible.?

I have learned so much on this journey, and now that I’m on the other side, I look forward to discovering even more.

If you or anyone you know is dealing with chronic pain, please reach out to me. Whether it’s building your medical dream team, finding a diagnosis, or managing daily life in a crisis, I am here for you. Visit our website, message me or email me at [email protected]

Stay strong, be healthy, and keep going and growing!?