There’s not much that can keep Don Esbjornson down. Not a degenerative disc disease, a back surgery 12 years ago . . . or a back surgery just last fall.
This 48-year-old has been active his whole life – golfing, mountain biking, water skiing, wakeboarding, snowboarding and amateur road-racing just to name a few. So, while he has to slowly give up most of these activities due to his back pain and surgery, he wasn’t going to do it without a fight!
Don’s GET THERE Story
Don had been dealing with degenerative disc disease, and the pain that accompanies it, for years. While he tried to stay as active as he could, the pain eventually began to take over. “2012 was my worst year,” said Don. “I tried to avoid surgery as long as I could. Physical therapy and shots would help short term, but wouldn’t last. So, with the encouragement of my wife of 20 years, and a referral to a neurosurgeon from a friend, I decided to have surgery again – a lumbar fusion - on September 30, 2013.”
Both before and after surgery, Don went for physical therapy at ATI’s Bolingbrook South clinic in Bolingbrook, IL. His therapist, Dawn Williams, has been inspired by Don’s dedication to his rehabilitation. “Don is incredibly motivated and determined. He refuses to allow his metal to impact his life. He continues to stay active and positive, living life to the fullest. Don is an inspiration for all patients requiring any major surgical intervention to improve quality of life.”
“Physical Therapy has given me my life back,” says Don. “I was in therapy before surgery, went back three days after surgery, and the progress has been great! The personalized care I received at ATI is the main reason. There is such a value is seeing the same person each visit, and building trust with my therapist. She really cared about me. She kept me on track and kept me coming.”
Don’s Back on Track – for Diabetes
While Don isn’t wakeboarding or mountain biking anymore, he is back and better than ever. On Sunday, June 8, 2014 he participated in a 100-mile ride for Tour de Cure in Chicago, IL on team “Riding for Peanuts.”
Participating in this ride, which benefits the American Diabetes Association, had a dual purpose for Don. “This ride was not only incentive for me to continue my rehabilitation and hit my goal of 100 miles on a bike, it also supported two inspirational people in my life – my good friend and my nephew. They both live with diabetes and I was proud to raise money for this great cause.”
Because of Don’s determination and spirit, he not only completed the 100-mile ride, he raised close to $3,000! Thank you Don for allowing ATI Physical Therapy to be part of your successful journey!