Cheryl Smith Cheryl Smith ACDF

I'm a Leo. That makes me loyal, outgoing, and a bit stubborn. It also makes me strong, determined, and hard working. My job is not for the weak; mentally or physically. I work as a Catering Chef for THE BEST company in Orlando, Arthur's Catering. I LOVE my job, I love the people I get to work with every day and I love the "controlled chaos" at events. 


About 7 months ago, I started experiencing pain in my neck and shoulders. I thought it was just my body getting ready for season. Then I lost my mother and I thought it was stress. I powered through it by taking Advil, Tylenol and the use of a heating pad. The pain was so unbearable at times I couldn't sleep, I sometimes felt my head was too heavy for my neck and my left thumb went numb about 3 months ago and I've adjusted to not having feeling in it. It feels like red hot lightening shooting through my trapezius muscle, shoulder, and all the way down my arm. Finally, after many weeks of encouragement from the best Chiropractor in the greater Orlando area, Dr. Matthew Demetree, I went to my family doctor and requested an MRI. A few days later, she called me in for the results and referred me to a surgeon. 


Unfortunately, I have developed 4 bulging discs in my neck between my C4 and C8 vertebrae. Two of the four discs are beyond rehabilitation and have to be removed and replaced with titanium cages (they look like little spacers). The medical term is " Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion with ROI-C" or ACDF. I'm nervous, scared, and hopeful. I intend to follow Doctor's Orders and heal as quickly as possible. The thought of being out of work is probably more stressful than anything. If you know me at all, you know sitting still is not one of my better traits. 


So, I was encouraged to set up this website to be able to share and connect with friends and family during this little adventure I'm in the middle of. Prayers, words of encouragement and maybe something to make me laugh are appreciated. Thank you!!