Second Chance at a Pain-free Life

“I hope anyone who suffers from trigeminal neuralgia finds out if Gamma Knife radiosurgery is an option for them.”

When you interact with Jeremiah Gallagher today, his zest for life is evident. If you spoke to him 3 years ago, he would tell you that he didn’t even believe living a pain-free, normal life was a possibility. He attributes his remarkable recovery from trigeminal neuralgia and his returned quality of life to the doctors and staff at the Valley Gamma Knife Center.

“In 2016 I started to feel extreme pain on the left side of my face. It’s hard to describe the pain other than sharp, electric shocks that were severe enough to bring tears to my eyes. The only thing that I could do when the pain struck was to put my head down on my desk or lie down and let agony run its course. It got to a point where the episodes would last several minutes at a time and I had to be out of work.”

Jeremiah and his family knew that this was no way to live and started searching for answers. After seeing several doctors including a general practitioner, otolaryngologist, and eventually a neurologist, he was finally diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia.

Relieved to finally have a diagnosis, he was started on medication to subdue the symptoms and went back to his daily routine. Jeremiah’s pain subsided for a short period of time but returned again worse than before.

“The pain was so severe, I knew I had to find another way. When you reach a point where you can’t work, can’t concentrate, can’t communicate with your family, you have to do something.”

Jeremiah began to research alternative treatments for trigeminal neuralgia and learned about Gamma Knife radiosurgery.

“Once I learned that a Gamma Knife procedure could potentially be an option for me, I discovered the Valley Gamma Knife Center. The Valley Hospital has a wonderful reputation so I knew I found the right place.” Wasting no time, he immediately made an appointment for a consultation.

“I was really very impressed by the entire operation. I arrived for my consultation on a Wednesday morning and the receptionist was expecting me. I was introduced to my nurse, Kelly, and my surgeon, Dr. Anthony D’ Ambrosio. The procedure was thoroughly explained to me and they both answered any questions I had. The entire staff at the Valley Gamma Knife Center made me feel completely at ease.”

Jeremiah arrived the morning of his actual procedure and was at home resting later that afternoon. Since his procedure at the Valley Gamma Knife Center, Jeremiah has been completely pain-free.

“The procedure was actually really simple and there was no pain at all. It was such a comfortable experience that I hope anyone who suffers from trigeminal neuralgia finds out if Gamma Knife radiosurgery is an option for them.”

Overall Jeremiah is so grateful for the staff at the Valley Gamma Knife Center. “I was very impressed by the staff and Dr. D’ Ambrosio. Everyone seemed genuinely concerned and eager to help me.”

Jeremiah has since received follow up appointments after the procedure and has been enjoying living pain-free with a new outlook on life.

* This procedure may not be suitable for every patient. All patients must be evaluated by a physician as to the appropriateness of performing the procedure. The above testimonial represents the individual’s response and reaction to the procedure; however, no medical procedure is risk-free. Associated potential risks and complications should be discussed with the physician rendering this procedure.