I have been a competitive figure skater since I was 6 years old. I am now 17 and the past couple years of my figure skating career have been plagued with numerous injuries, especially the past two years. Over the past two years, I have been in agonizing back pain. No one could figure it out until this past summer when I went to a new doctor who specializes in spines at the Cleveland Clinic. I was miserable in everyday life because I was always in so much pain. It was hard to concentrate in school, and I couldn't have fun with my friends or while skating.

In the first week of December, I went in for surgery. The doctor put a screw in the fractured vertebrate and did a bone graft. Everyone took such great care of me while I was in the hospital. I enjoyed talking to all the nurses. They made my hospital stay comfortable and fun.

Ever since the surgery, I have felt absolutely amazing! All of my pain went away instantly. I forgot how good it feels not to constantly have agonizing back pain. My doctor is my hero and I will forever be grateful to him. It's almost 4 weeks after surgery and I couldn't be happier. I can actually concentrate in school; therefore, I am doing much better. I can also have fun with my friends now; I can simply enjoy life again! I just can't wait to get back on the ice in a couple months!