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Lakeland had my back
Erika Haas
Jul, 2021
Physicians: Sigita Alimenti, MD;
Daniel Sohn, MD;
Nassir Mansour, MD;
Alexander George, PA
“Pop!” That was the horrific sound Erika Haas, a 36-year-old Benton Harbor resident, heard as she lifted a heavy box one day while at work. A sudden pain shot down her back, into her hips, and through her left leg.
As a dialysis technician, Erika spends 12 to 14 hours a day on her feet. She hoped a few days of taking it easy would help mend her back, but when the pain returned a month later, she knew it was time to see a doctor. She scheduled an appointment with her primary care provider, Sigita Alimenti, MD.
After an initial exam, Erika was referred to orthopedic surgeon, Daniel Sohn, MD. Dr. Sohn was concerned with the persistent pain she was experiencing and ordered an MRI scan to diagnose the issue. The imaging results showed it was more than minor back pain. Erika had seriously injured the lumbar and sacral regions of her spine.
Due to the severity of her injury, Erica met with the team at Lakeland Neurosurgery, who specialize in treating conditions that affect the brain, spine, and nervous system.
“I’ve never had any major surgeries, so I was nervous leading up to it,” said Erika. “My care team eased my fears and reassured me that I was in great hands.”
Erika’s spinal surgery was performed by neurosurgeon, Nassir Mansour, MD, at Spectrum Health Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph. During the procedure, Dr. Mansour removed a large disc herniation in Erika’s lower back. This was bordering her nerve root and the source of her pain.
“I was shocked to learn that I’d be able to avoid an overnight stay at the hospital altogether,” said Erika. “I never imagined I would be going home the same day I had spine surgery.”
After she returned home, a member of her care team, Alexander George, PA, followed up to see how Erika was recovering.
“Alex was wonderful,” said Erika. “He helped with pain management, asked about the progress of my physical therapy, and answered my questions about upcoming work restrictions.”
Erika continues to meet regularly with the physical therapy team at Lakeland Rehabilitation Services.
“They know me by name when I walk through the door,” said Erika. “It’s great to have that level of personal care.”
Now, months into her physical therapy, Erika is back to working full time.
“I’m happy to be getting my life back,” said Erika. “I’m so grateful to all my providers, and for the team at Lakeland Neurosurgery–they truly had my back through it all.”