To My Life Long Friends. It has been close to two years, and I am still praising and raving about the work rendered by Dr. Richard Francis and the Spine Associates staff. Upon leaving New Orleans I sought out treatment from three different physicians to treat the problems I had with my back after two previous back operations. I was unable to find anyone to offer me any comfort; one physician even claimed the damage to my back was too substantial. I was in excruciating pain.
One Sunday, my wife and I decided to visit the church of a friend looking for comfort for my pain. Upon entering the building I witnessed a man who was bent over and in pain. I was drawn to this person and we started discussing our mutual troubles. The gentleman told me about Dr. Francis. He said that he was going to see him the following week. He told me about his upstanding reputation, wonderful work and how to find him. I went home from church that day, still in pain, and decided that I would contact this doctor on the following day. Monday morning, I called the office and was given an appointment to be seen within a few days. That call was one of the best things that I have done relating to my back issues.
Priscilla and I went to the appointment and we were overwhelmed by the concern and patience shown to us by Dr. Francis and his entire staff. From the very first visit he showed us so much compassion for the pain that had endured over the years. Dr. Francis showed my wife and I several skeletal models describing in detail the problems that existed in my spine, my left leg and my tailbone. He went on to explain how he could correct the problem with a procedure called a spinal fusion.
Dr. Francis is truly a God sent man. He listens, he understands, and has a way of making you believe that he feels your pain. I have never visited the clinic and found him rushing; he always makes time for patients and to answer all of your questions no matter how long it takes. After my surgery, while in the hospital, I experienced a problem and asked for him. He came without hesitation. He put all my fears to rest when he came to see me and then explained to my family what the problems were and assured them there was no reason to be alarmed. He sat down on the bed and made sure I was comfortable. He took his time to put us all at ease each and every time we called or saw him.
Dr. Francis promised that I would return to the everyday things that I was accustomed to doing pain-free in less than one year. He was right. In less than two months I was up and walking one mile per day. I returned to doing the things that I had been unable to do such as playing with my grandson; taking my granddaughter on her bi-weekly shopping spree.
I have seen my share of doctors and could not believe the loving care and respect my family and I received from Dr. Francis and his staff. Dr. Francis made me a promise and he delivered. After my experience, I would never trust anyone else with the care of my back after thirty years of suffering. My family and I love and genuinely appreciate Dr. Francis and the life that I have been able to return to.
May God continue to bless and keep you and your team in his mercy.