You've heard me say it - "Pain is a good teacher."
Well, I guess that's just the medicine that this doctor needed. I have been soaking up all the "gifts" from my healing challenge since October & I'd love to share some reflections. Life has a funny way of teaching us lessons when we least expect them. For me, that lesson has been patience, and it's been wrapped up in a journey of healing—one that I never saw coming.
Back in early October, I was out for a lunchtime run when I moved to the side of the road for a passing car. In an instant, I rolled my ankle, tucked, and rolled into the ditch. (I wish there was a camera because it definitely would have made for a good blooper reel!) Deep down, I knew something was wrong. Imaging initially showed no fractures. But my intuition tugged. We decided to order MRI. It showed inflammation & bone bruise, so I followed a conservative approach—crutches, natural healing, and time. I started to feel better and got back on my feet (too soon). I was so eager to return to the office and get back to "normal" life.
But then the pain returned. And not just a little. It worsened. I tried every natural and conservative treatment I could, but something still felt off. So I listened to my gut, sought more imaging, and met with a trusted colleague. The CT scan revealed what I had felt all along—a hidden bone fragment, lodged where it shouldn't be.
After much prayer, surrender, and trust in my instincts & God's plan, I knew surgery was the next step. I have to give a big shoutout and thanks to Dr. Jon Morgan and the incredible Precision Surgical team. They took amazing care of me!! (I wasn't feeling excited about anesthesia, surgery, medication, etc. They knew I had my fears & doubts. But they prayed with me. And their kindness & confidence helped me feel at ease!) The procedure went smoothly. I woke up with a cast, numb leg & they let me know that they removed a fragment the size of a fingernail.
I don't sit still very well. (I know that is not a shock to anyone who knows me.) But I knew this would take some time to heal. I decided to use the time for rest, bonding with kiddos, catching up on a few things from my laptop, & some inspirational prayer time with God.
I made it to the two week mark. I headed into the post-op appointment to get the cast off. I took a shoe because I was ready to walk/limp out of the office that day. But my plan and "the plan" were not the same. She took the cast off. Removed a few of the sutures, leaving a few others. I could tell right away that there was more bruising and swelling than I was prepared for. I could tell by looking at it that I would not be walking out on two feet that day. The care team was great. They gave me some instructions and said they would see me in two weeks.
I made it out to the car before I broke down. Frustrated. Sad. Scared. I felt a roller coaster of emotions. A few tears fell. And I focused into my breath. I could feel the sun on my face. I could hear His whisper, "Healing takes time. Life is not happening to you. It is all happening FOR you. Trust the process."
I could hear God speaking directly into the pain & frustration. I know that I know there is purpose in pain. I know it is all making me a better, stronger, more grateful version of myself. I know there will be gifts that come from this for my family & kiddos. I know this has been a beneficial time for training with the team. I know it has given me time to complete projects that will be of benefit to many. I know it has granted me fresh perspective for the gifts of modern medicine AND natural healing. I shook it off. I turned on one of my mama's favorite songs, laughing with the lyrics, and trying to stay rooted in the positives... "You can't always get what you want... but if you try sometimes you'll find, you get what you need."
So, here we are.
Now, at three weeks post-op, I’m easing into weight-bearing. I will keep easing forward and moving from two crutches to one, and soon, hopefully, into a walking boot. (I cannot wait to kick the crutches & scoother!!)
Through this unexpected season, I’ve been forced to slow down. But in slowing down, I’ve had the chance to work on strengthening our team. Dr. Derek and Dr. Hali (my incredibly talented and big-hearted siblings) have stepped up in ways that make me so proud. My sister-in-law, Dr. Jess, has taken on a leadership role as our new office manager, bringing her expertise to the daily flow. And we’ve welcomed new Chiropractic Assistants—Maddie, Savannah, and Danna—who have brought fresh energy and excitement to The LightHouse family.
While I may not be adjusting just yet, I’m still deeply involved—training with our doctor team, enhancing patient care, and bringing some very exciting new projects to life. I miss you all A LOT!! I miss the hugs, high fives, and hearing about all that you have going on in your world! I will be so thankful to get back soon & I can’t wait to share what’s coming this Spring and Summer!
This chapter of life has reminded me & invited me to fully experience one of those golden keys we talk about often at The LightHouse -- Healing takes time. I know many of you have been on your own health journeys, and if you’ve fallen off track, I get it. Life happens!! But let this be your reminder—your body deserves care, we MUST take care of ourselves, there are ALWAYS blessings in disguise, and you don't have to do it alone. I can assure you that our LightHouse Dream Team is more dedicated than EVER to show up for each and every one of you through the storms that come your way. If it's been a while since your last adjustment, let’s get you back in. Don't feel like you have to wait on me. You can see my chiropractors -- Dr. Derek & Dr. Hali. You are in AMAZING hands!
Thank you for your grace, your prayers, your encouragement, and your trust. I can’t wait to see you in the office soon!
EXPECTING MIRACLES!!
Dr. Devin
“Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.”
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