My Comeback Story: Terra G.

Real Patients. Real Comebacks. My name is Terra Gaines, and three weeks ago I ran sprints on my treadmill for the first time since my diagnosis last June. If you knew what it took to get there, you would understand why that moment meant everything. In June 2025, I received the diagnosis that would lead to one of the most defining chapters of my life. On January 14, 2026, I underwent a three-level spinal fusion, L3-S1, and laminectomy, two major surgeries that I carry proudly as a warrior's badge of honor. You would never know it looking at me today, aside from the nearly six-inch scar on my spine that I wear with pride. My recovery was not without its battles. I was released January 17th, readmitted January 19th through the 23rd due to complications from my body's response to narcotic pain medication. As it turns out, I am the world's worst "drug doer." I experienced temporary paralysis of vital functions, significant gastrointestinal issues, and intense muscle spasms so severe they required spine hospital pain management as recently as April 10th. I stopped formal PT three times per week at Dr. Jenne's guidance, and he gave me the most honest and effective prescription I could have received: resume your normal life. That has been the very best medicine. I have not taken pain medication at home in three months. I have reclaimed my mobility. I have my life back. I will be honest with you. I am a little racehorse, highly motivated, fast-moving, and deeply purpose-driven. Physical immobility did not just slow me down, it started to break my spirit. I began to feel like a retired racehorse with two broken legs who just wanted to run fast again. Making the decision to move forward with surgery at 48 years old was difficult and a hard pill to swallow. But it saved me from myself, and I do not regret it for a single moment. My True Testament, Written Shortly After Surgery as I Began My Recovery: Dr. Jenne earned my trust at my very first visit. His PA Patsy, the entire South Texas Spinal Clinic team, and every single staff member at South Texas Spine and Surgical Hospital delivered white-glove care from injury through recovery. The culture throughout STSSH is second to none. From the smiles at pre-registration at 5:30 in the morning, to Linda Keller admiring my Nike kicks while we moved through pre-op, to the nurses, techs, PTs, and support staff who showed up with professionalism, compassion, and genuine humanity every single day of my inpatient stay, I meant every word when I wrote on my last night there: "This is what all healthcare should be like." To Dr. Jenne, Patsy, and the entire South Texas Spinal Clinic and STSSH family, thank you. You gave this racehorse her legs back. I am eternally grateful. Terra Gaines Five Months Post-Op | Three-Level Fusion L3-S1 & Laminectomy | January 14, 2026