My Comeback Story: Mike J.

Mike J.

Getting Back to What I Love

In March 2024, I fell from a building approximately five feet high and landed on my left shoulder. After extensive testing, Dr. Cotton became my surgeon and repaired my shoulder. I began therapy at Orthopaedic Associates with Kelsey Barr as my therapist.

After about six weeks of therapy, we discovered I had developed a frozen shoulder and was not making progress. I should mention that Dr. Cotton had warned me early on that this was possible given the extent of my injury. After consulting with Dr. Cotton, we decided another surgery was necessary to address the frozen shoulder. That surgery took place on December 9, 2024, and remarkably, I began therapy that very same day with Kelsey Barr.

Kelsey Barr is my hero. There were numerous times I wanted to give up, but she always encouraged me to stay the course and work hard. Dr. Cotton and his team also supported me tremendously throughout the entire process, which lasted until April 2025.

As I write this story, it's almost Christmas 2025. I have full range of motion and about 90% of my strength has returned. I cannot say enough about Dr. Cotton, his office staff, and Kelsey Barr. Next month I'll be 72 years old, and I have totally recovered from my accident. This would not have been possible without the help of Orthopaedic Associates. I tip my hat to them every day for enabling me to do the things I love—working in my garden and my workshop.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.