In the Spring of 2023, I began to have severe pain in my right leg. It wasn't the result of an injury and didn't even start during any sort of physical activity. I didn't know what or why this was happening, but it was relentless and debilitating. After about two weeks of dealing with consistent pain, I went to see a provider and was diagnosed with nerve pain. I then saw a physical therapist and began to see some improvement, but after about a month the intense pain returned and escalated during mild to moderate physical activity. I was becoming very frustrated because I thought it was getting better, but the pain kept resurfacing and impacting my work, my mood, my ability to focus, and my social and home life. 

I finally set an appointment with Dr. Patel and the Edgerton Hospital Pain & Spine Center. I had never experienced this type of pain before and had never been to a pain management specialist before. I didn't know what to expect and was nervous. My nervousness increased as I sat in the waiting area wondering, what was wrong with me, would Dr. Patel be able to help me, and what tests he might order - (I'm also very uncomfortable with MRIs). 

As my nerves began to increase, Kadee Ruseell came out to the waiting area to get me. She greeted me with a smile and asked how I was doing. She quickly picked up that I was uncomfortable and reassured me that the Edgerton Hospital team was there to listen to me and work to find the best way to help. She asked me several questions and gathered information, but then did something I haven't experienced very often at medical visits in quite some time -- she looked at me, and focused on me, while she was asking questions and while I was answering. I know we think people do this, but more often than not, they don't. Going to the doctor, or hospital, can be an uncomfortable experience for many people. As patients, we have an issue that is beyond our control and we don't know how to fix it. We need medical expertise, but we also need caring, communication, and to know the medical team is treating us, and not our condition. 

In my opinion, these are key elements to having the best experience and finding the right answers. Kadee's genuine compassion and attentiveness helped calm my nerves and showed me I was more than just another patient to this clinic and this team. She set the tone for my experience with the Edgerton Pain and Spine Center and helped me communicate with Dr. Patel effectively, and find an answer to what was causing my pain. Thank you, Kadee for caring and for your role in helping me get back to a pain-free and normal life.