Restoring My Ability to Walk
The surgical reconstruction that changed a Life.
My spine is officially a hybrid: titanium for biocompatibility and flexibility, with cobalt-chromium added for heavy-duty strength. I’m basically bionic now!
No Longer Chairman
After years in a wheelchair, the skilled spinal team at the Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center in Dallas Texas, restored something I feared I had permanently lost—the ability to stand, walk, and live without continuous, crippling pain. Their work rebuilt not only my spine, but my entire quality of life.
The reconstruction required one of the most complex procedures in modern spine surgery, performed to correct a severe spinal injury – that several previous surgeries were unable to repair.
Understanding the Reconstruction
The Baylor team performed two major structural procedures that work together to stabilize and realign the entire spinal column.
- Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF) – T4 to Pelvis
Through a long incision down my back, surgeons placed a system of titanium rods and screws from the upper thoracic spine (T4) all the way to the pelvis. This framework stabilizes the spine, restores alignment, and prevents further collapse. - Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) – L3 to S1
Through an anterior (frontal) approach, surgeons placed interbody cages between the vertebrae in the lower lumbar spine. These spacers restore the natural lumbar curve.
Together, these procedures rebuilt the entire structure of the spine, restored posture, and the ability to stand and walk.
3D Models
- View the fused spine (T4–Pelvis): https://skfb.ly/p9sqz
- View the spinal hardware model: https://skfb.ly/p9ALA
The Surgical Team
This life-changing procedure was performed by:
- Dr. Farhan Rizkalla, MD
- Dr. Andrew Avramis, MD
- Dr. Carlos Chivarria, MD
at the Baylor Scott & White Spine & Scoliosis Center
Special Thanks
This surgical process was arranged through the department of Veteran Affairs (VA), and the HUD-VASH program administered with Dallas County.