Pastor Freeman Pierce’s life changed in a split second while traveling East on Highway 31 on May 27, 2019. A nearly fatal accident left him with injuries, some of which he thought would never overcome. After hearing the news multiple times his condition, known as Foot Drop, was surgically untreatable, Mr. Pierce eventually surrendered to the idea of living in a brace and using a cane for the foreseeable future.
Grandchildren to play with and sermons to preach were going to look differently than he had always imagined.
Mr. Pierce had adjusted to his new lifestyle until fate intervened, or as John Lennon put it, “there’s nowhere you can be that isn’t where you’re meant to be.”
After an appointment with Azalea Orthopedics, Dr. Chad McNeil, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist, Pierce received the news that there was finally hope. Dr. McNeil’s colleague, Dr. John Priddy, Foot & Ankle Specialist at Azalea Orthopedics, had answers according to Dr. McNeil.
Now, after three years of living daily in a brace and unable to walk without difficulty, Pierce is completely brace-free thanks to a successful tendon transfer surgery and other procedures performed by Dr. Priddy to correct his diagnosis.
One event brought these three men together, and it is incredible to see what their determination, knowledge and persistence overcame. Thank you, Dr. McNeil and Dr. Priddy, for your healing spirits, and thank you, Mr. Pierce, for your persistence and belief in Azalea!