Veterans In Pain (V.I.P.)

We are not just a nonprofit. We are family.

“I just wanted to let you know that I have completed my HBOT treatments. I am feeling amazing. I have not had to take melatonin or any other substances to get a full 8 hour night of sleep. My anxiety and depression are pretty much non-existent and I am down to only taking .25 of my Zoloft for about another week before I come off of it. Just wanted to update you and let you know I am ready for whatever other treatment you have available.”

VIP Veteran, Rick C.

“To all at VIP that have made such a positive change in my life, I want to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happier New Year!!”

VIP Veteran, Jay P.

“I just got a call from the hyperbaric facility. Would you believe I’ve been approved for 15 treatments?

I am shocked,but grateful!

Im exited!

You are awesome!”

VIP Veteran, David W.

“We just got to meet Quave in person, what a wonderful person!

We injected him up and showed him some functional rehabilitation exercises and got him a few braces to hopefully help him progress and heal.

We even got 42 cc of fluid off one of his knees!

We will talk with him again soon to see how he is doing. Thank you again for sending him our way and allowing us to help these wonderful veterans.”

VIP Physician Dr. Amrish Patel, GA

“I met with Dr. Flanagan on Tuesday and we had a great conversation. Looks like I’ll be getting scheduled for treatment at the end of March. Thank you so much for putting me in touch with Dr. Flanagan and for ensuring I get this procedure done sooner than later. I’m super hopeful about our plan and will certainly keep you posted on my progress.

Warmly,”

VIP Veteran, Rob

“Hi Micaela, therapy went very well today. Dr. Rosselli was very pleased. Having some pain now but not too bad. Thank you so much for having this all set up and for the entire procedure. I very much appreciate all you do for veterans.

Hope you are doing well. Thank you again!

Take care! 😘💕🇺🇲”

VIP Veteran, Marguerite H.

“I have been through this treatment with Dr Reichbach at his facility. I can tell you without a doubt this article is spot on. Before the treatment I couldn't focus on anything but my pain. This as you all know, truly impacts your ability to focus on anything but the pain. This throws you into a self made depression as there is no escape from your situation and you feel you have no control.

After the 5 days of treatment; which was a very pleasant experience for me, I felt liberated. Instead of pain being my first waking thought which stayed at the forefront of my day, it went into the background. The pain was still there but it was no longer my first waking thought. I now have the clarity of mind to find a way forward for continued healing of my physical problems.

It immediately improved my marriage, as I could finally see how my issues impacted her wellbeing. I can now team with my wife to find a way forward for my situation, vice pushing her away. If I couldn't help my self I certainly couldn't help her help me. I didn't realize the impact my problems had on her.

This treatment is a must for chronic pain and depression

Best wishes for your complete healing.”

VIP Veteran, Mike M.

“It is my honor to be able to help veterans with MSK injuries.

The Veterans In Pain Nonprofit Foundation (https://lnkd.in/edZFKHh3) founded by Micaela Bensko provides free orthobiologics and pain management to veterans in need. This week I was able to meet one of our Air Force Veterans and hopefully help him take the first step towards living in less pain. If you are an orthopedic clinician with experience in orthobiologics...please consider adding your name to the roster of like minded clinicians. If you are a veteran with joint pain, back pain, or other MSK injury..contact V.I.P! “

VIP Physician, Dr. Don Buford

“Its been awhile, but I just wanted to send this

quick note to thank you for the help you provided

earlier in the year.

Truly, it was a gift I am grateful for. Although I

was not able to schedule a stem cell procedure...

the connection to Dr. Carol Henricks and her team (at Northstar Neurology & Healing AZ Vets)

has been a blessing. Her hyperbaric oxygen chamber treatments have been slowly helping ease the pain. Hopefully one day I will be healed

enough to move forward with Regenerative medicine.

During this Christmas holiday I wanted to wish you

the best....for your health and your strength. The

help you provide veterans that are in pain is so

greatly appreciated...its an amazing gift...thank you.

May the new year be one that continues bringing

YOU many blessings!

Thank you again for everything!

Bruce

“Thank you Veterans In Pain (V.I.P.) and Micaela Bensko for giving us the opportunity to work with Veterans undergoing treatment (both surgery and non-surgical solutions) for chronic knee pain.

This is a community we are honoured to support.

Our state of the art sensor offers a clinically validated solution for in depth measurement of knee rehabilitation progress, and provides an effective non-drug activity based treatment programme for reducing pain and improving movement. The patient benefits from an engaging and connected care experience irrespective of location.

For surgeons, Opum connects the care team and offers tier one surgical support.

We look forward to providing another layer of support and engagement to veterans who need it the most!”

VIP Corporate Partner, OPUM

VIP Physician, Dr Matthias Wiederholz

“I served in the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper in the infantry out of Ft. Bragg , NC from 2002-2005. I deployed to Afghanistan in 2002-2003 and then Iraq from 2003-2004. While serving I sustained several injuries that include concussions as well as a parachute accident that ended my enlisted in May of 2005. From spinal injuries and arthritis to what we are now more familiar with these days as TBI.

Back then the mentality was always push forward, take Motrin, drink water, take a knee, and then move on. I remember having my bell rung a few times whether by explosion or impact injury. If can fight then you will and if you were hurt/injured then it was a general feeling that you are worthless or looked down on. So you kept quiet and fought or trained.

When I was medically discharged in 2005 for my back injury I was 20 years old about to be 21. Still felt invincible even though I was hurt and really just ignored everything for awhile with little help here and there. I worked and joined the executive team of an Oil and Petroleum Company here in Missouri.

In 2016 one day I woke up and my life completely changed. I was deaf in my left ear with that full feeling, vertigo which I never experienced, imbalance issues that had me running in to walls and falling, nausea and dizziness with vomiting, and intense Tinnitus. I actually thought I was dying or something was seriously wrong.

It was a very long process to reach a place where my ENT Dr. Goebel at WASH U told me to see a Neurologist. Prior to Dr. Goebel I had another ENT treat me. They found nerve damage in my MRI to my left ear and began giving me the Epidural steroid injections that led to a ripped ear drum. When I was referred Dr. Goebel he found my torn ear drum and repaired it. He diagnosed me with Meneires Disease.

I then saw the neurologist at the VA which found TBI and basically from there did PT to help my body and brain adjust to my new way of life. Low salt diet and diuretics along with the many of scripts from the VA. However, I really only stuck to the low salt intake. There is quite a bit of in between that would take awhile to explain to get to the place I’m in now. 2016-2017 was a horrible time of uncertainty and to finally get some answers helped.

I ended up demoting myself at work due to my mental clarity, focus, inefficiency and sharpness dissolving before me. This eventually led to me retiring in 2019 and working part time as a consultant for the same industry.

Along the way in the constant search for a cure I’ve ran across a podcast with Joe Rogan who had Andrew Mar and Veterans In Pain VIP Physician Dr. Mark Gordon on there. I remember listening to Andrew Mar and weeping because he was describing the exact same things I had been going through. I feel like around this time the CTE and TBI research began to boom as well.

My brother in arms, Dusty Neel, that knew about what was going with me and introduced me to VIP and Micaela Bensko earlier this year. It has been such an amazing journey with VIP, Mic and Dr. Carol Henricks, (their Director of Huperbaric Therapy and founder of Healing AZ Veterans to whom VIP facilitated my care).

I can not express the gratitude that I have enough and I almost feel like I’m annoying because I cannot say thank you enough to all these wonderful people.

Dr. Henricks and her team at NorthStar Neurology HBOT gave me such a warm welcome. Really the treatment there was therapy in layers or levels. Some of the patients there were inspiring and amazing along with the healing process. I can say that my symptoms were lowered in intensity as well as my mood became extremely better. I became the same outgoing person I used to be rather than an uncontrollable sweating social anxiety type.

It was such a great trip that my family and I will be hoping to move to the Tucson area this summer. I still have issues and believe still need to complete more dives as I completed around 80. Dr. Carol mentioned to do at least 100 while I was there but at that point I had to get back home to my family. They were there with me for the first week and returned while I stayed for another 6 weeks in Tucson. I hope this wasn’t too long and wanted to try and summarize. I have much more to describe with my HBOT experience and hope in the panel I’m not so long in the tooth.

Thank you for having me and appreciate you all so much!”

VIP Veteran, Erik I.

“On this Veterans Day 🇺🇸, EmCyte Corporation & Gulf Coast Biologics are honored and proud to support Veterans In Pain (V.I.P.). Not only are we donating kits in which autologous biologics treatments will help them with their pain management, we are also featuring some of these heroic VIP Veterans at our upcoming Bio-Illuminate III International CME Conference. Your service will never be forgotten and your health will be a priority. We thank you for your service and look forward to this partnership.”

VIP Corporate Partner, EmCyte Corporation

“I’m Crying.

Testimonial....Took my new knee to Florida for 10 days.

After 3 days and almost 21 miles at all four Disney theme parks, (I have) little to minimal pain in my knee.

Can't even begin to describe the joy I am having right now.

You guys have truly changed my life.

Thanks again and may the universe continue to bring joy and good health to all of you”

VIP Veteran, Jay P.

“I attended my appointment yesterday with Dr. Steven Grossinger and to say it was an eye opening and enjoyable experience is an understatement.

From the greeting at the front desk until the procedure (which I wasn't expecting to happen yesterday) there was nothing but professionalism in that office.

Dr Steven made me feel that he really enjoyed the fact that he was part of the program offered by VIP and helping veterans.

Not sure how I kept from crying yesterday but it was hard not to let it show on my face how it made me feel to get such excellent conversation and care.

I would recommend Dr Steven to any of my veteran family.

I will be doing a tribute video to put on facebook in the coming days as soon as my son returns from the beach (he is my video expert)

Again thanks to all who were involved with this endeavor. May the goodness you have shown to this veteran returns to you tenfold.”

VIP Veteran, Jay Pinkney

“I have been waiting to find a quiet moment to write you a thank you!! The author mitch albom, who had a daughter with chronic illness, said that sometimes the hope is what you need as much as the cure. (I felt like you might relate to this!) Our whole family wants to tell you our deepest thanks for the hope you have given jp! (Even his dad, a quiet irish man, got a glimmer back in his eye when he heard about your foundations help). Jp is through the moon about the doctor and treatment! I hope one day we will be able to thank you in person for your unbelievable kindness!

Also, wife to wife, thank you for your health instructions to prepare for treatment, lol! It was incredible to see him throw out the soda and candy in our house, something I have been chasing him trying to get him to do for a decade!”

VIP Veteran Spouse, Katie L.

“I just wanted extend my appreciation for your help in finally getting my painful condition under control. I have come very far from where we originally began and live a much more normal life now with hardly any back pain!

I want to help you and your organization in anyway that I can. Please feel free to reach out to me anytime.”

VIP Veteran, Chris R.

“I am blown away! After years of being in pain and the long journey to find VIP and Platelet rich plasma, I am pain free!! I thought I’d have to have injections in my neck every couple months for life, with little effect. But VIP put together a way to heal me. I don’t feel older than I am anymore. I could not be more grateful. Thank you VIP, so very much!”

VIP Veteran, Kelly S.

“First off, I want to share my sincere thank you with all of you, that made this blessing happen for me! I could not be here, as happy and optimistic as I am today without all of you!

As a disabled combat veteran, I have chosen since getting medically retired to give back to my community; coaching youth sports, youth outreach programs for at risk youth and of course helping my fellow veterans with claims and even providing rides to their appointments to gather their own care.

With that being said, I found Micaela and VIP on a google search while in tears, and I mean a dark day in tears rolling down my face. The pain without answers from my VA Docs was so disheartening and disappointing. After filling out the VIP online form, well, here I am after Micaela got my mind back together and now, God willing providing the guidance to the body as well! The positive mindset of healing is really helping me with PTSD and only getting better with less pain!

My eyes feel watery just writing this and it’s no BS! I truly mean it, thank you to all of you who have helped make not only me feel so much love, blessings; but others like me! And VIP wouldn’t make it without everyone putting in their work and time as well, bridging these gaps and allocating funds and grants.

Today, after 17 months, I was finally able to jog for 5min at 4.5mph without any pain!!! You have no idea how this feels, just 10days post-op with the amazing Dr. Patel!!!!! Much more to come!

As an avid Brazilian Jiujitsu national competitor, I can’t wait to compete at this years IBJJF Masters Worlds Championships in Las Vegas, November 2021 and truly show how well your treatments and programs have helped me capture my goals!!! And well if no odium for me, then at least I went out there and gave it my all!!! Feel free to follow my progress on Instagram @survivorbjj if you’d like to, I know it’s cheesy, but hey, that’s me in a nutshell, 😂😂.

Cannot wait to post my healing updates in a month, 6-month and a year from now as well!!

Thank you to everyone and God Bless!!

VIP Veteran, Justin P.

“Hey group, just wanted to send an update. After talking with @Micaela Bensko about some of my mental health challenges I’ve been having and getting worse, she suggested a few orgs to reach out to. One of them is America’s Mighty Warriors. Debbie Lee (mom of the first Navy Seal killed in Iraq - part of Task Force Bruiser - Leif Babin & Jocko Willinks group) got me connected with The 22 Project and quickly got me a scholarship/grant to get me to Florida and get a SPECT imaging (conducted this morning) and HBOT therapy starting Monday. The imaging report was very clear of the damage/injury to my prefrontal cortex, both temporal lobes, and Cerebellum. All the symptoms of damage in those areas is in alignment with the issues I’ve struggled with for 15+ yrs now...and has gotten worse over the last 3+ yrs. I got to meet a gentlemen (Marine Corp Doc) this morning who had similar issues and just finished his HBOT therapies and said things are NIGHT & DAY in comparison from before he got started. I’m excited bc it leaves me hopeful, and share bc I know there are others out there hoping and looking for healing and not just “take another pill”.

My take away from all this is, if I didn’t have that one convo with Mic, she wouldn’t have been able to open my world up to multiple organizations who have expressed it’s their honor to help me/us! The answers are out. Be vulnerable, trust Mic, and do whatever it takes. The healing answers aren’t at the bottom of the bottle, end of the joint, or in the next “gummy phenomena.”

May God bless each of you on your journey and May you find the answers you are looking for. You’re at the right place to take you down any road you need to go down!

Thank you for your service!

Much respect and agape love to you Mic!

I’ll check back in with you all in December when this therapy journey comes to an end! 🙏”

VIP Veteran, Christopher H.

“Good morning all...just want to say THANK YOU to Micaela Bensko for doing what she does! Had my first PRP treat on my neck (5 injections) and left knee yesterday. Still a lot more to be done, but am grateful for the opportunity to start a HEALING process rather than a masking management process for the last 15 years!

Mic, I truly appreciate you! Thank you to the group for all your sharing wisdom as well!”

VIP Veteran, Christopher H.

“I attended my appointment yesterday with Dr. Steven Grossinger and to say it was an eye opening and enjoyable experience is an understatement.

From the greeting at the front desk until the procedure (which I wasn't expecting to happen yesterday) there was nothing but professionalism in that office.

Dr Steven made me feel that he really enjoyed the fact that he was part of the program offered by VIP and helping veterans.

Not sure how I kept from crying yesterday but it was hard not to let it show on my face how it made me feel to get such excellent conversation and care.

I would recommend Dr Steven to any of my veteran family.

I will be doing a tribute video to put on facebook in the coming days as soon as my son returns from the beach (he is my video expert)

Again thanks to all who were involved with this endeavor. May the goodness you have shown to this veteran returns to you tenfold.”

VIP Veteran, Jay P.

“I’m super passionate about caring for veterans which is why I’m glad I came across Veterans In Pain. One of our VIP Veterans has been suffering from chronic low back pain for a very long time. Today we performed a bone marrow aspiration and injected BMAC to his lumbar facet joints and performed a bilateral L5/S1 lysis procedure using the plasma from hemoconcentration.

A big thank you to Celling Biosciences and Northwest Anesthesia for providing the supplies and the anesthesia for today’s procedure. We provide our services pro bono to VIP’s Veterans to thank you for your service!”

VIP Physician, Matthias Wiederholz - Houston, TX

“Today with (VIP Physician) Dr. Shounuck Patel (and Lexie) was even better than I could have expected. And I had high expectations. Especially after such glowing endorsements from you and Dr. Nevo. But you already know how amazing they are so, aside from me confirming that (seriously might have been the best first encounter w a doc Ive had in my life), I’ll get right to the medical stuff:

Dr. Patel, after being the most thoughtful and thorough listener, thinks I have a few potential issues, the foremost being the ligaments and small/inner/deer muscles surrounding the damaged areas of my spine.

Due to my multiple compression fractures (sustained during 32 airborne jumps) and then the forward-pulling weight of all my combat battle rattle in Iraq, there is a prominent kyphosis of my spine, esp in my mid back area, which, over the past decade of me trying to tough it out, has stretched those ligaments past their elastic capacity AND caused all the mini muscles in those areas to be extremely overburdened in their attempt to keep my torso erect (as best as it can). These muscles are constantly fatigued/sore/painful/tight, especially when I am seated or standing still for 10mins or more, causing them to misfire and radiate pain throughout my back.

He explained everything to me, in a hands-on fashion, so thoroughly that I feel extremely comfortable with this treatment and under his care.

Lexie also gave me a few copies of diet-related stuff, seems same-same as the VIP directives, that I have already begun to follow.

Overall, I couldn’t be happier right now. I know there’s a chance this doesn’t work, I’m used to that by now, but I’m as optimistic as ever. So glad to have found VIP and Dr. Patel.”

VIP Veteran, Kyle H.

“I'm still at a loss for words! All of you are so genuine, good hearted, and wanting to help. I must have done something really good in a previous life! Dr Penhollow was very thorough and detailed with everything. Thank you for all the info, and thanks to you things are happening pretty fast!

VIP Veteran, Joe S.

“Thank you again for all you do!! Your such a blessing I still haven’t heard from pain management, so without meeting you I still would be in limbo with no real idea of next steps! Because of you I at least now have a possible path forward 💗

VIP Veteran, Bill H.

“Just wanted to say thank you again and I'm extremely grateful for everything you've done. The HBOT team is amazing and it's hard for me to comprehend this undeserved help and receive such a blessing to getting me back to a somewhat normal physical and mental state.

Living with these neurological issues where my brain is making my body do things I don't want to do has been rough. The pain in my body I just accepted I'd live with until death.

When I get stable I'd be glad to volunteer my time helping you or Healing AZ Vets in any task to make your lives easier.”

VIP Veteran Erik I.

“I appreciate what you, your organization, and the physician in Naples Florida did for me. Regardless of my outcome the fact remains that all of you bent over backwards to take care of me, and that’s not diminished in any way by my particular results.

As you’ve seen from my referral, I believe in your program and will continue to share it to everyone I know. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there is ever anything that I can do for you and yours.”

VIP Veteran, Chad W.

“Aloha! I wanted to send you much love hugs snd gratitude for being the nucleus of getting me here (to Healing AZ Veterans HBOT). I’ve been here almost 2 weeks now with 15 dives in the chamber, almost got one full prescription medication out of my system, and new supplements regimen. I am not sure I can even express in words enough the kindness, sincerity, and professionalism that the team here has given me. It is truly a very ‘family’ environment which has exceeded my anxiety brain expectations. My hips are already allowing me to walk with little to no pain (of course on meds still ) so, I’m just so excited and full of hope for this journey.

For now, my focus is on the TBI. My understanding is I will still get tested for burn pits exposure so, I’m sure that is on the check list. Thanks for all you!!!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰”

VIP Veteran Tobi C.

“Hey! The procedure yesterday went awesome. By God, you were not kidding. I feel like I’m 18 again. I almost feel anxious because my back is so different lol. I am going to take it real easy for a week then I’m going to do all the right things to keep this going. I cannot thank you enough! I don’t even know how.”

VIP Veteran Kenneth H

“I knew initially I was going to wait for the pain survey to reflect, contemplate on my status. It's been 3 months since my procedure and it has surpassed any expectations that I had.

First , just leaving the clinic I felt different, in a good way, I felt like I was being supported. I have had no neck pain whatsoever, as a matter of fact sometimes when I turn my head to either side it feels as if it's on a roller, very smooth, and of course, from time to time, cracking, popping (again, in a good way).

I have not lifted weights or anything weighing more than usual household items. I do household chores, no yard work.

I have no neck pain when I read. As far as headaches go, they're not throbbing or painful. First time my whole brain just tingled, I expected pain to follow but nothing. Other times it's as if a finger poked me in the brain, still no pain.

Basically I'm active in day to day living, keeping safe. What has happened is at first I stopped having an appetite, which has since slightly improved. It was frustrating because no matter how much running or sit- ups it wouldn't decrease. Now since, without running or sit-ups I wear a 34 down from a 36. My gut on occasion does feel like I just worked out. I know it's the alignment that's happening. I know my condition didn't happen overnight and my healing isn't going to be overnight. I have had, I would like to call it discomfort not pain, on occasion, but it is fleeting. Before, the discomfort would be pain and it would linger and worsen.

The only time it was prolonged was two days ago, 07/07, where I was getting anxiety attacks, my hip was in #7 painwise and I couldn't and didn't sleep, maybe 2 hrs. But last night was the opposite. As I mentioned, all of this isn't an overniter.

One other thing. I had my nose broken as a child and I think that is the reason why the upper part of my esophagus deteriorated what you (VIP Physician Dr Tammy Penhollow) mentioned had been chronic. This happened when I was 8 yrs. old. As an adult I had my nose fixed, but my right nostril always felt stuffed. One day I had this massive tingling sensation at the bridge of my nose. Since then I have had a clear passage.

Yes I am thankful and I am grateful. I thank the Good Lord for putting you in my path. I look forward to all the healing that is coming. Take care, be safe , and God bless.”

VIP Veteran Ivo O.

“I'm still at a loss for words! All of you are so genuine, good hearted, and wanting to help. I must have done something really good in a previous life! The physician (Dr Tammy Penhollow) was very thorough and detailed with everything…Thank you for all the info, and thanks to you things are happening pretty fast!”

VIP Veteran Joe S

“I dreamed of getting my life back where I could live a normal life despite my military injuries, the type few can understand or relate to - so when I was searching for a way to get my life back I knew I needed to find a group who understood and were willing to do the type of things needed, things outside what most people know.

When I found VIP I knew in my bones (the ones that usually hurt) this was for me. Everyone involved wants the best outcome, and the encouragement and help was amazing.

If you are a Veteran in pain, reach out today. We have been there we can help. Join us in helping get Veterans life back on track!”

VIP Veteran Will H.

“Back is about 80%. Still gets stiff sometimes, but minimal pain and no nerve pain in my leg. Nothing short of amazing in my opinion. I would probably be 100% with a site specific spinal injections, but no complaints here. I can't thank you enough. “

Douglas N.

“Ron has had some improvement since ketamine treatment, so we are both thankful for that. I really enjoyed him directly after treatment each day because he was chatty...more like my husband. I feel like he would benefit from more treatment. The Dr said 2-3 months, but I think sooner if possible. I'm looking forward to the day when maybe a prescription of something like ketamine would be available. He is not complaining as much about his tinnitus since treatment, but unfortunately,he is still being plagued with daily migraines.

Thank you so much for what you and VIP do. It's the only form of TBI rehab we have been able to get for my husband so far because the VA is so slow. Very frustrating. But your program is awesome and I've been telling everyone about it. Thank you again so much for your help.

Respectfully,

VIP Spouse, Angela S.

“The stem cell treatment Gabriel received boosted him to a new level of health. This was a blessing, as this last summer saw terrible wildfires and the air quality caused a big struggle for him. The stem cells were so timely providing him with that support.

We continued with ozone and hyperbaric therapy with some success but still hitting the chronic head pain/chronic fatigue wall.

At the persistent request of his doctor, we began looking toward places with clean air. Just this week we traveled to Great Falls, Montana to see how he would adjust.

Within a matter of a few days, the energy and strength he was feeling in his body allowed him to apply and get a part time job, the first time in over 4 years!

We will be staying permanently in Montana, after this success, and looking forward to more successes as God allows.

Thank you again for your kindness and compassion that you have demonstrated to all of us. May you and your family be greatly blessed!”

VIP Spouse, Hannah Mattix

“I hope everybody is doing better, my lower back already feels better (Day 7) in the mornings and my shoulders are feeling better already!”

VIP Veteran, Tej

“(My current VIP Veteran) is such a nice man. I loved meeting him and I am very proud of his USMC fortitude and strength. He was such a trooper and just so grateful.

I am so grateful to you and your 501C3 assistance. The nurse anesthetist was by far the biggest cost

I'm also so thankful for Emcyte Corp for their generosity with the BMAC kit. THAT is the #1 expense on any of these procedures so that's huge, too.”

VIP Physician, Tammy J. Penhollow, DO

Board Certified Pain Management, American Board of Anesthesiologists

Board Certified Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiologists

“Hi!! Konrad feels better overall but it's on and off. Some days are very good and sometimes he feels as if he regressed which is exactly how you explained to us he is going to feel (in the beginning).

We are patiently waiting for the full spectrum of results. I can definitely also say the (stem cell) patches work, they ease the pain and boost energy. It is only week one and can’t thank you enough! We are sending love and kisses!!!

VIP Spouse, Eva S.

“First Treatment Day 1: :They done the infusion, right hip and right leg for neuropathy wants to see me back in six months to do the other leg and another infusion

Second Treatment Day One:

I can’t wait to see the results! Definitely swollen tonight but nothing major. Thank you so much for connecting me with such an awesome group of people.”

VIP Veteran, Rodney M.

“ Day 1: Hi This is Ronnie today was the best day of my life!!! One of... I had the knee, lung treatment, IV, and the P shot. Everyone that was apart of this program was phenomenal this is how things should work you figured it out and I am already feeling tons better just optimistic... no the most awesome people treated me and I did and will receive the best results

VIP Veteran Ronnie P.

“I'm feeling GREAT...and I'm dying to do some Yoga! I'm keeping a low profile..dont worry. My brain is even working better! This is only the 10th day.

I'm not taking any work until you give me the go sign. “Super Woman Syndrome, you were not kidding 😆”

VIP Veteran, Cynthia T.

“Micaela.. good morning sunshine.. It's Nannette 😁.. I had to get up at 3am to catch the plane.. I had one of the most wonderful experiences! Thank you for everything you do for us Veterans! The drs, nurses, and staff there, even the coffee guy, were so kind nice and beyond helpful! The Dr helped me through to make sure I was ok and that my nerves didn't go crazy when I was receiving my injection! Absolutely Amazing! I received the nasal treatment, hip & ankle injection as well as the iv vitamin bag.

I'm so grateful for this opportunity. The medical director was so amazing and a Joy to finally meet.. I also got her a gift.. I'm sure she will tell you all about it. I had so many laughs with the drs as well as our awesome VIP Veterans that were also there.

Now to give these babies time to do there magic! My foot and leg have already loosened up a lot! They also gave my sister a nasal treatment as well! I can't wait to see the outcome of this!

Our VA medical system is broken.. this has given me hope in my health without all the meds. Keeping Positive like Always. You continue helping us Veterans and giving us hope! I am going to tell every Veteran that needs the help about your program! Enjoy your day Beautiful! 🌞😁

VIP Veteran, Nannette J.

“This was the best day of my life!!! One of... I had the knee, lung treatment, IV, and the P shot. Everyone that was apart of this program was phenomenal this is how things should work - you figured it out and I am already feeling tons better and just so optimistic... the most awesome people treated me and I did and will receive the best results

VIP Veteran, Ronnie P.

“I have been waiting to find a quiet moment to write you a thank you!! The author mitch albom, who had a daughter with chronic illness, said that sometimes the hope is what you need as much as the cure. (I felt like you might relate to this!) Our whole family wants to tell you our deepest thanks for the hope you have given JP! (Even his dad, a quiet irish man, got a glimmer back in his eye when he heard about your foundations help).

JP is through the moon about the doctor and treatment! I hope one day we will be able to thank you in person for your unbelievable kindness!

Also, thank you for your health instructions to prepare for treatment, lol! It was incredible to see him throw out the soda and candy in our house, something I have been chasing him trying to get him to do for a decade! Thank you!”

VIP Spouse, Katie L.

“I'm so extremely grateful for this life-changing medical opportunity you and your team created for me with Dr. Solt. She is WONDERFUL! I call her my miracle-worker! I've cried so much today because I'm so emotional with gratitude.

Our pilot, Mike, flew me and my friend and pups here yesterday (and will fly us home tomorrow).

Nothing ever goes this smoothly, but EVERYTHING for this treatment, did! I can't tell you how my heart is overflowing with thankfulness and appreciation for you, VIP, and your partners.

Thank you❤️

Much love!!”

VIP Veteran, Veronica L.

VIP Veteran, Veronica & VIP Physician, Dr. Sabrina Solt

5__#$!@!#__unknown.jpg

Veterans Airlift Command

“I served just under 10 years in the United States Army.

During Basic Training in 2007 I initially injured my right knee during the bayonet course, this injury eventually healed however during training for deployment in 2010 I re-injured the same knee.

This injury lead to my medical discharge years later. My life from the Summer 2010 until May 2020 was spent in pain. The pain would vary in intensity, I used a cane to get around, I was limited to the amount of time I spent on my feet and how much time I was able to sit in one position. I could not get outside to play with my own son.

I was introduced to VIP by a friend in 2019 and I immediately signed up. Micaela was so sympathetic and understanding. I could tell right away that she cared for me. Micaela told me her story and recovery, and how (functional medicine) had worked wonders for her, and she told me about how she connects veterans with doctors who are giving their time for veterans.

Micaela set me up with Dr. Turner from GA Bone and Joint in Newnan, GA.

Walking into GA Bone and Joint will help you feel calm and in control. The waiting area is neat and orderly. The receptionist both days I arrived greeted me promptly and warmly. The nurse, Julie was down right amazing. On my first visit she walked me through each step of the process, treated me kindly and warmly.

My first meeting with Dr. Turner was great as well. He talked me though my mountains of medical documents and the procedure I was having. He listened to me, answered all my questions honestly and with compassion. I would rate Dr. Turner's bed side manner very high.

On the day of my procedure, the technician who was supposed to draw my blood did not think he could do it without poking me multiple times (I have small veins), so he got an anesthesiologist to do it instead.

Once my plasma was ready to be injected into me, Dr. Turner and Julie talked with me the whole time, they let me watch the screen of the ultrasound to see the injections and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. Julie kept a cold compress on my forehead during the procedure.

On the day of my procedure, I was too nervous to eat breakfast and after the procedure, my blood sugar dropped! Julie sat me down in the back room, took a banana out of her own lunch bag and gave it to me. Julie sat with me for more than 20 minutes afterwards just to make sure I was okay.

My experience with VIP, Micaela, Julie and Dr. Turner was hands down top notch, with them it is some of the best care I have ever received, not to mention their care and compassion. I will recommend them all to my veteran friends.

Before my procedure I was unable to stand on my feet for long, unable to go walking much less hiking (my favorite outdoor activity) and I was even uncomfortable sitting in one position for very long. Less than 2 weeks after my procedure I was able to hike with my son 1.5 hours down into and out of Providence Canyon State Park (a.k.a. The Little Grand Canyon) in my home state of GA.

Thank you to VIP, Micaela, Julie and Dr. Turner.”

VIP Veteran, Theresea B.

Theresa B

“Just got back last night from my second round of Treatment with Dr Amrish Patel. I can say that the 1st round was amazing, my only drawback was my Migranes, once my mini migrane season was gone I was off exercising again. I did strain a ligament on my foot from walking, but hopefully this treatment will help with that. I am very enthusiastic about this treatment.

I am eager to excercise. That feeling off getting off my ass is there like it used to be and I love it. Now, I am taking it slow, I am listening to my body, but am moving. Thank you again.”

VIP Veteran, Mike D.

“Good afternoon VIP Readers,

First off, I want to share my sincere thank you with all of you, that made this blessing happen for me! I could not be here, as happy and optimistic as I am today without all of you!

After filling out the VIP online form, well, here I am after VIP got my mind back together, and now, God willing providing the guidance to the body as well!

The positive mindset of healing is really helping me with PTSD and only getting better with less pain!

Today, after 17 months, I was finally able to jog for 5min at 4.5mph without any pain!!! You have no idea how this feels, just 10days post-op with my amazing (VIP Physician)Dr. Shounuck Patel!!!!! Much more to come!

Feel free to follow my progress on Instagram @survivorbjj if you’d like to, I know it’s cheesy, but hey, that’s me in a nutshell, 😂😂.

Cannot wait to post my healing updates in a month, 6-month and a year from now as well!! Thank you to everyone and God Bless!!”

VIP Veteran, Justin P.

Justin P

“I just want to thank you for everything you and everybody has done for me. My (VIP facilitator) Rob is super sweet. He called me tonight to see how I was doing. I just can't get over how wonderful and how much you guys have done for not just me but for all of us. It has been a long and hard ride.

I'm looking forward to not having to have surgery and hopefully ever again. Thank you again I'll keep in contact I'm going to call Rob every week and give him updates, but I want to say thank you to everybody for everything they did and gave. Bless your heart.”

Robin R.

“I'm literally so excited I can't even wait for my procedure, I can barely sleep!!

Feel so blessed to have found VIP that blesses us injured veterans and links us with dedicated and professional providers to aid in healing us from our injuries!

My life has taken a downward turn per se. I've had to eliminate a lot of hobbies and outdoor activities; many of which I utilize to combat my PTSD and anxiety/depression from service related issues from combat. The injuries that Dr.Shounuck Patel will be addressing, when healed will give me some purpose back, enjoyment back to my life and an ability to resume my favorite activities; Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kayaking, mtn biking, hiking, and even just daily life activity comfort.

Thank you again Micaela, I will always spread your message and help anyway I can!

God bless

~Justin

“Thank you so much for the follow up. We appreciate you reaching out to us.

The treatment with Dr Steven Reichbach (The Reichbach -Ketamine- Institute) went well I thought. I’ve never done any treatment like this, so I don’t have a good comparison to make, but just in the depression alone, I could feel a significant improvement from Day 1 to Day 5.

I’m still struggling with significant pain, but not nearly to the degree I was experiencing it prior to the treatment. I knew what I was feeling was out of proportion to my physical ailments, and much of that excessive pain seems to have been effectively managed. And of course, I’m still struggling with the joint pain, but it is commensurate with the damage inflicted upon the specific joints, and much more tolerable now than it was before.

Dr. Reichbach suggested I consider returning to the clinic for additional therapy sessions in approximately 3 months, but more importantly than the time was to not let the physical or emotional pain get to the point where it becomes distressing, as those stress hormones have a significant impact on our pain and ability to effectively manage it.

We will be looking to return for 3 or 4 sessions sometime around April, or sooner if necessary. The entire office staff was a pleasure to work with, and I always felt as if I was the most important patient in the world to them. A very nice break from the “burden” mentality that I experienced with the VA.

Other than being extremely lethargic and sleeping many of my days away due to the medications, I didn’t have so much as a single negative take away or “needs improvement” area come to mind throughout the treatment process. And I know for next time how better to manage my appointment times, and still be an effective member of the family, if we decide they should return with me.

Thank you again for touching base with us. It was a very pleasant experience, and provided me with much relief that I badly needed. I am now ready to tackle whatever comes next in the process, and with a very open mind about some of the less conventional approaches to the complex physical, emotional, and psychological challenges I face.

The Ketamine treatments changed my whole way of thinking about my conditions, and how I can best keep this positive momentum as we move forward.

Hope you are well, and that we get the opportunity to talk about other options for treating the musculoskeletal issues soon.

You have to be willing to try new things, and maintain a positive attitude, and cautious optimism. I wasn't convinced IV ketamine would produce the results it did. Physically, it brought my chronic pain and pain from injuries to a manageable level.

From a psychological perspective, it absolutely made a night and day difference in management of my complex PTSD symptoms and severe depression. After a week of therapy, I feel better and more optimistic and positive going forward than I have since I retired from active duty.

Thank you Micaela and VIP for helping us find the resources we need to be able to start to reclaim our lives!”

VIP Veteran, Sean M.

“Thank you very much for all you have done as well as checking in on me. I am doing ok, sore, but I expected that. Working on getting back to it slowly obviously but not overdoing anything either

VIP Veteran & Physician Testimonials

Testimonials from VIP Veterans, Physicians, and those they love

We are not just a nonprofit. We are family.