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-   "Getting Back on Their Feet" New Film on DVD (https://www.adrsupport.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=57)
-   -   A miracle, of sorts... (https://www.adrsupport.org/forums/showthread.php?t=10137)

Harrison 08-11-2009 07:52 PM

A miracle, of sorts...
 
All members!

Finally, after two years of hard work, the high definition DVD is ready for global distribution! Getting Back on Their Feet was produced and created by the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. This film provides a comprehensive perspective on the spine motion preservation technology called artificial disc replacement. It is uniquely designed for people considering major spine surgery (especially ADR) and provides insights from experienced patients.

Produced and narrated by an artificial disc patient (umm, that would be me...) the film follows the journey of seven spine patients who offer candid stories about the struggles, decisions, challenges, and victories they faced along the way.

Getting Back on Their Feet walks the viewer through all the stages faced by a patient choosing to undergo spinal surgery with artificial disc replacement:
  • Problem realization
  • Pain management
  • Diagnosis
  • Exploring options
  • Decision making
  • Surgery
  • Post-op recovery
  • Support
  • Looking back
The Arthroplasty Patient Foundation was founded in 2007 to empower patients and help them research the range of treatments available for their spine dysfunction, whether device-based, biological, or naturopathic.

See the trailer here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp2pNgqkwQ8

Your contribution to obtain this ground-breaking DVD is tax deductible. Start the secure ordering process here:

Order Videos | Arthroplasty Patient Foundation

There's much more information to come in the next week. Thank you to the people that contributed to this landmark film -- especially the patients interviewed!

:)

Lumbar Cookie 08-12-2009 03:54 PM

Hats off to you. If I order the dvd will I get a receipt for my taxes?

Harrison 08-12-2009 07:59 PM

"LC," welcome to the forum. Yes, you will receive an order confirmation that confirms and tracks your order. If that is not sufficient, we can send you another one -- but that confirmation should suffice for your tax records. Thanks for asking.

Harrison 08-13-2009 10:16 AM

Thanks!
 
Thanks to LC and one other person (not a member) who ordered the first DVDs yesterday. You should have the DVDs in 2-3 days; but you can choose the method of shipment to expedite delivery.

;)

mama bear 08-18-2009 06:48 PM

I received the DVD on Saturday and watched it with hubby on Sunday. It was very enlightening and encouraging to watch and listen to others who have suffered for years and eventually had ADR surgery and were able to resume some normalcy in their lives.

Prior to finding this support forum and listening to only one orthopedic's negative opinion of ADR, we felt like it was a procedure that shouldn't dare be ventured. After tons of reading and research, checking with other doctors and getting fed up with living with pain 24/7, we've turned the corner and now feel like there's light at the end of the tunnel. Though the problem is with my husband's back, I say "we" because his pain and limitations have truly has affected the entire family.

Watching the DVD stoked the flames of hope that we have had burning for some time now. Kudos to you for putting this together and doing such a superb job!!! I would definitely recommend it to anyone considering ADR.

Johnny Vegas 08-19-2009 09:44 AM

Any chance on a freebie?!
 
Congrats on getting the video produced. Considering the state of the economy (and my own bank account!) any chance the video will be available at a reduced price later? Thanks and by the way it is now 8 months post op and working full-time and doing very well!:jacks:

Lumbar Cookie 08-21-2009 09:41 AM

I got the DVD a few days ago and finally watched it. So much information Ill watch it again. The parts about surgery risks were very good. I’m glad you mentioned local osteoporosis and would like to see and hear more about this. THANK YOU

Alastair 08-24-2009 09:45 AM

Excellent
 
Folks as you know I`m an "old hand" with ADR and run the UK website but helped to start this one some years ago.

I have dealt with and recorded over 1400 spine cases (please note I`m NOT a Dr), I would recommend everyone who thinks they might need ADR or just simply be better informed to get this DVD.

I have just spent my lunchtime watching it and you have everything there for you.

Good luck everyone
Alastair :)

Harrison 09-13-2009 07:26 PM

New film helps spine surgery patients get back on their feet
 
Thanks for your kind words. I am most proud of the film as an educational piece, as it consolidates a great deal of information that has been exchanged within this community in the past five years. And good point about the donation sizes; if anyone has economic hardship, of course we can make exceptions. These are recommendation donation sizes and any donation is tax-deductible.

Two separate articles were submitted and accepted recently by two (very different) orthopedic publishers. This version below was released this week (hard copy) by Orthopedic Products News and a longer web version was published by Robin Young a few weeks ago. I hope it helps new spine patients better understand the educational aspects of this new film on DVD.
____________________________

NEW FILM HELPS SPINE SURGERY PATIENTS GET BACK ON THEIR FEET
By Richard Longland
Founder, the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation

A Cutting Edge Spine Patient is Born

In 2002, I started to get some really nasty pains in my lumbar spine. In 2003, I had myriad tests while gobbling NSAIDs like PEZ candies. And my sitting tolerance worsened to the point where my quality of life completely evaporated. While getting physical therapy, which consisted of nothing more than traction, I consulted with different doctors to obtain the most appropriate treatment options. Since my L5-S1 disc was desiccated and dark on imaging studies and the nerve pain was increasing in severity and location, I whittled my options down to a century-old procedure (the gold standard of fusion) or the newfangled artificial disc replacement.

The idea of motion preservation seemed to make sense to me. So on June 24th, 2004, nearing the end of the Charité clinical trial, I underwent artificial disc replacement surgery at L5-S1 (see image 1). I was in the hospital for 1½ days and made a quick recovery. However, in the terrible process leading up to that day, I spent hours and hours researching my problem: sitting uncomfortably while on-line and reaching out to other patients through discussion boards, e-mail and eventually by phone. It struck me then that patients must look in so many places – too many places for even a “healthy” person -- to put the pieces of the puzzle together. I knew there had to be a way that I could improve the information gathering process for patients, making it easier, more efficient and comprehensive.

When I regained my strength after surgery, I used my energy to launch a website: ADRSupport. Recalling how helpful interactions with spine patients were to me in my difficult journey, I launched a global discussion board in which I still contribute as a patient and community moderator. Even today, the ADRSupport online site brings together ordinary people from all walks of life from over seventy countries, but it also includes medical professionals including dentists, radiologists and medical technicians. I learned a great deal as the editor and administrator at ADRSupport still do. It was a significant learning process that challenged me to take the next critical step in my life.

Making a Big Step: Literally and Professionally

Starting a non-profit is great if you love paperwork and have oodles of money; I am not inclined to bureaucracy and have never won the lottery. Still, I pressed on, while cursing the IRS applications and started the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation, a nonprofit organization. I immediately focused on solving the perpetual problem for spine patients: what’s the best way for patients to learn about new spine treatment technologies? I sensed that film would be a great medium for delivering intelligence to patients, so I started producing a unique film that addresses these startlingly complex challenges. And as the founder of the ADRSupport community, a film maker, and patient, I was in a unique position to interview patients and explore opposing viewpoints on disc replacement.

As of July 2009, there is a new information resource that could accelerate the “patient-doctor” relationship: a film I produced called Getting Back on Their Feet. This 75 minute, high definition documentary is the first of its kind in the spinal arthroplasty world. Featuring candid interviews with seven spine patients, the film takes viewers through the process of disc replacement surgery from diagnosis to recovery. The end result is the visual equivalent of a “how to” manual helpful to both patients and doctors. This film is a concise medium that crunches down, distills and conveys complex information expressly for spine patients.

Medical professionals who watch the film will see and hear what spine patients are looking for in their treatment and consultations. Patients who watch the film will be able to approach their doctors with more knowledge about treatment options and especially a much better understanding of possible risks and complications. Armed with this crucial knowledge, Getting Back on Their Feet will help patients and doctors use their time together as efficiently as possible.

Thoughtful Analysis and Precise Editing

The film also brings out information that one cannot normally find through traditional research methods. Even though each patient interview used the same script, there are highly variable but different responses. As an interviewer, I learned to ask the right question and even ask the same question in different ways to glean information the patient may not have thought about.

One interviewee, Jim, gives his own scale for measuring progress during post-op recovery. It isn’t the normal kind of advice that a doctor would think to give a patient: “When you're in the bathroom,” says Jim, “there are so many things that happen that you need to do with your body, such as washing your hands, shaving your face, getting in and out of the shower, putting on your pants without a grabber or without somebody helping you, putting on your socks. These are the things to watch to determine what your rate of progress is. Forget about the numbers and forget about everything that everybody talks about. What you can do in the bathroom tells you how much better you're getting.”

Listening to these patients’ stories also helps other patients feel that they are not alone in their pain. Eileen tells the camera, “People don’t necessarily understand pain unless they see blood and guts.” Ken describes the halting of his active lifestyle as “taking a race car and putting it up on blocks.” Patients share their pain in the film in ways that they could not with their doctors. Both Ken and Eileen recovered from their surgeries and returned to active lives.

Education and Empowerment

An additional focus of the film deals with patient empowerment -- how people research and obtain information -- as compared to a more traditional patient role of relying on the doctor for everything. With the intensity of chronic spine pain, it’s all too easy for some patients to reach the end of their rope and think, “Just fix me!” Unfortunately, this mechanical way of thinking can be risky because patients might not do their due diligence on potential contra-indications.

For example, if the patient presents a long list of health complaints and defers solely to an orthopedic surgeon, that “surgeon-patient” team may not have the expertise to address all the cause(s) of chronic pain afflicting the patient. Fortunately, the film includes a comprehensive list of risks and contraindications for ADR surgery. After viewing Getting Back on Their Feet, the patient will learn how to ask more informed questions about their spinal condition and the surgeon will come to a better understanding of the patient’s perspective.

An orthopedist’s busy schedule may not always leave enough room to address a worried patient’s questions, and a spine surgeon may have trouble seeing the problem from a patient’s point of view. Getting Back on Their Feet is here to fill in the gaps on both sides. Doctors can recommend this film to their patients as a follow-up to an initial consultation. Then, instead of the patient feeling the need to meet with other doctors to address their concerns, the patient can come back for a second visit with new knowledge. And this makes for a more efficient consultative transaction for both parties. When a doctor can fully relate to a patient’s condition, and when the patient can understand his or her pain and treatment options, then both parties can concentrate on what the patient really needs: getting back on their feet.
___________________________

ADRSupport was founded in 2004 and empowers pre and post-operative spine patients by supporting them in a global community and by helping them identify appropriate treatments to preserve natural motion in their spine. Its web site and global community is found at www.adrsupport.org.

The new Arthroplasty Patient Foundation was founded in 2007 and helps patients research and consider the best solution for their spine dysfunction, whether device-based, biological, or naturopathic. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it seeks partners who are truly committed to helping spine patients return to the highest possible quality of life. Its web site and new film is found at: www.arthropatient.org.

tooyoungforthis 10-03-2009 11:15 AM

Nice validation
 
Just wanted to share that I ordered the movie as well. It came in the mail 2 days later. It was good to watch before surgery and get much of what I was feeling validated. Many of each patient had something that I could personally relate to. Thank you for making this movie, and sharing it with all of us.

jfg2009 10-07-2009 10:13 AM

I think it looks quite compelling and I immediately empathized with the comments of the interviewees.

jfg2009 10-21-2009 12:08 PM

Great Film!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Harrison (Post 83900)
All members!

Finally, after two years of hard work, the high definition DVD is ready for global distribution! Getting Back on Their Feet was produced and created by the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. This film provides a comprehensive perspective on the spine motion preservation technology called artificial disc replacement. It is uniquely designed for people considering major spine surgery (especially ADR) and provides insights from experienced patients.

Produced and narrated by an artificial disc patient (umm, that would be me...) the film follows the journey of seven spine patients who offer candid stories about the struggles, decisions, challenges, and victories they faced along the way.

Getting Back on Their Feet walks the viewer through all the stages faced by a patient choosing to undergo spinal surgery with artificial disc replacement:
  • Problem realization
  • Pain management
  • Diagnosis
  • Exploring options
  • Decision making
  • Surgery
  • Post-op recovery
  • Support
  • Looking back
The Arthroplasty Patient Foundation was founded in 2007 to empower patients and help them research the range of treatments available for their spine dysfunction, whether device-based, biological, or naturopathic.

See the trailer here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp2pNgqkwQ8

Your contribution to obtain this ground-breaking DVD is tax deductible. Start the secure ordering process here:

http://www.arthropatient.org/order-videos/

There's much more information to come in the next week. Thank you to the people that contributed to this landmark film -- especially the patients interviewed!

:)

I just wanted to let you know that I watched the video this morning and was very impressed. There is something very powerful about having other people understand exactly what you are going through and who can offer experience, strength, and hope. I am meeting with my surgeon, Dr. Hyun Bae, who works with Rick Delamarter in Santa Monica, tomorrow to discuss the surgery and Axiomed study. I will either receive the freedom disc or prodisc. Surgery has always scared me, but I am at the point where I know I can't continue like this forever. I really appreciated the film and would like to get additonal input as I go through this process. Of course, I would be happy to help others too. Are you available to speak directly? I saw your cell number, but didn't want to call without asking first.

Thanks.

Steve

Harrison 10-28-2009 09:02 PM

Thx for posting
 
Steve,

Sorry for the delay -- it was nice of you to post this. I do share my business cell number to communicate, share and learn from other patients. I don't pretend to know too many technical aspects of ADR; I leave that for the spine doctors. But I do research all the other issues we patients need to be mindful of as we approach some kind of treatment; and that's where I hope we as a non-profit can help.

As a spine patient in pain, there's way too much information to consider. That's why I tackled this video project (jeez, started almost three years ago!). I hope it provides a comprehensive, honest assessment of artificial disc replacement for patients and even medical professionals. I believe it does -- thanks to the patients in the film. And of course, Moki, the video producer. It would not have happened if not for him!

Harrison 11-19-2009 08:28 PM

Sorry to share this with you – but someone recently made a donation via PayPal to the foundation and expected a DVD. That same day, I emailed the person and thanked them and asked them for clarification. I never heard back from Tom in Florida and he is now disputing this through PayPal.

Many members here will find emails from the organization (it's .org) clipped or in their spam filter and it creates an admin nightmare for me. Tom, I’ve emailed you so many times; I’ll try from other email addresses…

If anyone cares to order the video, this is the most expeditious and reliable way to do it: http://www.arthropatient.org/order-video/

Thanks!

Harrison 11-24-2009 12:47 PM

Lowering the Donation Price
 
Johnny raised a good point earlier. Effective immediately, the recommended donation price for the DVD is $30 for all (and only) ADRSupport members.

I'd like all patients considering ADR to watch this, especially about the parts about risks and contraindications. It really breaks my heart to read posts from patients who are "high risk" or contraindicated have surgery, then have poor outcomes. That's one of many ways this video can help inform patients.

Remember that any donations are tax deductible. Also, please use the official (and efficient) ordering site here when ordering.

staci70 12-03-2009 09:48 PM

The title of this forum says "HD", yet it seems to be a DVD. Those two terms are in conflict. Do you have a Blu-Ray version? Is the source material HD?

(Mr. Staci70)

Harrison 12-06-2009 02:33 PM

Thanks for all the comments all. I have one question back to you: how helpful was the part about contraindications & risks? Was any of this information new or helpful in framing questions with your surgeon?

Mr Staci, yes, good question. I shot all the footage in 1080i, but downconverted to SD (standard definition). For most, it will look like something between the two because of the high quality source video.

I wanted to produce Blu Ray (and still might) if I get more money; but that may not be cost-effective given the relatively low rates of Blu Ray use in the US. Surely, this is changing daily. Ultimately, I need to keep the costs down for everyone involved -- it's important for patients to absorb as much of this material as possible.

Harrison 01-04-2010 05:36 PM

National Press Release for Video
 
http://media.marketwire.com/attachme...48_rgb_apf.jpg

Jan 05, 2010 05:17 AM ET
New Documentary Reveals the Story Behind Modern Spine Surgery

"Getting Back on Their Feet" Delivers Never-Before-Seen Interview Footage of Patients Who Underwent Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

WOBURN, MA--(Marketwire - January 5, 2010) - Spine patients afflicted with severe degenerative disc diseases often find diagnostic and treatment options as daunting as the surgery itself. Fortunately, "Getting Back on Their Feet," a new documentary released by the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation, was created specifically to help spine surgery patients overcome obstacles they encounter in their search for wellness.

By compiling advice from a global community of artificial disc replacement (ADR) patients, the unique 75-minute documentary saves patients hundreds of hours of research time. The film provides patients a clearer understanding of spinal dysfunction and helps them make informed decisions about their possible treatments. Using a series of candid interviews, the film's producer, Richard Longland, follows seven patients from their first debilitating pains through surgery and into recovery. The film provides a comprehensive source of educational information, potential risks and contraindications of ADR surgery.

The film also helps physicians understand patients' perspectives as they journey from diagnosis to recovery, and provides an educational tool addressing the questions and concerns of their patients. "Getting Back on Their Feet" helps accelerate the dialogue between the patient-doctor team and making the most efficient use of time so doctors and patients can concentrate on what is most important: treating spinal dysfunction.

"The visual medium of film is an ideal method to distill complex spine issues and convey that information to a wide audience in an objective manner," says Longland. "As a spine patient myself, I found that when you interview someone face-to-face, it creates an honest intimacy and allows patients to openly share their stories in ways that they could never share online or over the phone."

About the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation

Richard Longland, an ADR spine patient, founded the Arthroplasty Patient Foundation to help patients identify solutions for their spine dysfunction, whether surgical, biological, or alternative. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the foundation seeks partners truly committed to helping spine patients return to the highest possible quality of life. Its web site and new film can be found at: www.arthropatient.org and its global discussion board is www.adrsupport.org/forums.

Contact:
Richard Longland
Principal and Founder
The Arthroplasty Patient Foundation
617-314-5900

marcus_webmail 03-08-2010 12:48 PM

I would heartily recommend this excellent DVD to anyone who is considering back surgery.

I found it very informative, supportive and reassuring. Whilst at the same time, challenging as it makes you think about the questions, which on a daily basis we (or at least i) tend not to think about as a defence mechanism. Having watched this video I feel energised and emboldened to do the research work I need to and find the information I require to take control of my own healthcare.

I would like to thank Richard and most of all those brave enough to open up on camera like that, its been a great help!

Marcus (from England)

tigerpaw75 03-21-2010 12:08 PM

Great resource for patients considering ADR
 
Richard,

Wanted to thank you for all your work in producing the video. My wife and I found it enlightening and supportive. I feel like it is a great introduction for those considering ADR. If you ever plan on updating it in the future, some topics that you could consider adding, perhaps in more detail:

1. Consideration of medical tourism - risks, things to consider
2. A review of the history of ADR device and procedure development, and where we stand today both in the U.S. and worldwide.
3. Interviews with some of the top surgeons in the field, obviously with a disclaimer that the non-profit does not endorse any specific surgeon.

it was an extremely well produced video - top quality!

Thanks again,

Tigerpaw75 (Tom)

Harrison 03-24-2010 12:43 PM

1 Attachment(s)
Tom,

I am glad that you and your wife found value in the film. And thank you for very constructive feedback! I'll take this into consideration for the next film.

In the meantime, here's an article that Orthopedic Product News printed in their Sept/Oct 2009 edition. It tells readers a bit more about me, the film making process and the non-profit Arthroplasty Patient Foundation.

Thx again for the feedback!

Harrison 04-20-2010 10:33 AM

I am happy to see the spine doctors are watching the DVD too! Last year, I spoke briefly to Dr. Nick DiNubile MD, the orthopedic surgeon and author of the “Framework” health education series. His new book may be helpful to those of you hoping to avoid surgery; or for others well into their recovery: Framework for the Lower Back: A 6-step Plan for a Healthy Lower Back.

Thank you, Dr. Nick, for your supportive words describing the film. And one more BIG thank you to the patients interviewed in the film – you helped all of us tell the story! If anyone is interested in his book, the second edition is here.

After watching the DVD, he offers this assessment of it:
“Getting Back on Their Feet, a DVD by Richard Longland, is a wonderful documentary that follows seven patients through their struggles and successes with back surgery, with an emphasis on disc replacement. Longland, a disc replacement recipient himself, portrays the complexities of lower back care, non-operative and operative alike, including the toll it takes on individuals’ lives. I recommend this DVD to anyone suffering with chronic back lower back pain, especially those contemplating any type of lower back surgery."
Note: I have no business affiliation with Dr. Nick or any other doctor, though sometimes I wish I did! ;)

kennethhoff 07-29-2010 04:26 PM

Dvd
 
I bought the DVD "Getting Back on their feet" maybe a month or so ago. It is a fantastic DVD and I would advise everyone to get a copy and watch. It is good to see as you go through the process, before surgery, or even to show friends and family what others have gone through and it's not just you.

I have been dealing with back pain (L5-S1 herniation) for 13 years and have done tons of reseearch. It's good to see others and hear their stories. Bless everyone who has to deal with Chronic pain.

- Ken

Tyler 08-09-2010 09:42 AM

What a fantastic help - for my support group as well as me!

Getting so much information across, but also with personal angles that connect to patients, was not only incredibly effective but makes the film great to watch.

Thanks so much for producing this - I hope everyone sees it with their families!
Best, Tyler

back2lifeplease 05-17-2011 10:48 AM

Watched the DVD last night....
 
and I must say, it was great. I highly reccomend that anyone who has had constant problems with there spine to watch this video. I am really glad I watched it.

Thanks!

Chris

tenniskid 08-10-2011 06:27 PM

Great DVD - highly recommend it!!!
 
I just got the "getting back on their feet" DVD yesterday and loved it. I could relate to each and everyone of the patients' stories, and it is great that the DVD included a section on the support that the patient's received. No doubt about it, I could not have gone this far without my girlfriend helping me out and taking leave from work to take me to appointments. I highly recommend the DVD and thank you to all the people in the film that have opened their lives up and shared their stories. I also bought the"framework" book that was mentioned above. :wiggle:

L4-5-S1 08-30-2013 01:18 PM

DVDs Why am I still sick / Getting back on their feet
 
Both great videos, professionally done, valuable info, high recommendation.

I am glad to have these dvds, thank you Richard

Lucelia 12-13-2013 02:52 AM

How do I order the DVD?
Tks

Harrison 12-13-2013 02:56 PM

Thanks for asking. You can order either one, or both, here:

Arthroplasty Patient Foundation

Note the special pricing for patients! :shedance:

Kelly4ADR 02-17-2014 01:40 AM

Harrison,

I will be ordering a copy of your DVD as soon as I finish this comment, as I am about to become the proud owner of a two level Mobi-c. I'm looking forward to the DVD as well as supporting you and your mission, as this forum has been very, very valuable to me as I try to sort out the details of my situation, a big thank you and hugs to you.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I told my surgeon about this forum and he was surprised but happy to hear of it. How do you suggest I inform him and his clinic of this video without sounding condescending or like I am trying to teach him something? Not that he would take it that way, but that I just want it to be well received. He also has crazy credentials on this board and that of spine surgeons, I just think this would be great exposure for your work and DVD.

Thanks, Kelly

Harrison 02-17-2014 09:19 PM

Thanks Kelly, for your kind words and considering the mission of The Arthroplasty Patient Foundation. When you order the DVD, I will include an extra copy for you to give to the doctors.

Here's the DVD page: Order Videos | Arthroplasty Patient Foundation

Thanks again. And good luck with your next steps! :wiggle:

Harrison 11-25-2015 01:57 PM

Donate by Buying from Amazon
 
Hi everyone,

If you plan to purchase from Amazon, PLEASE simply log in using this link, and then choose The Arthroplasty Patient Foundation.

All of your future purchases will allocate .5% to our foundation!

http://smile.amazon.com/


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