From Shoulder Surgery to the First Tee: How Greg Fought His Way Back

Each month, Iron Physical Therapy highlights a special patient to tell their inspiring story. We want to honor the people who go all in - body, mind and spirit. They show us what’s possible - that you can move on from a setback to do amazing things...to challenge your body, to chase your dreams, to address pain in a healthy way to #getbetterbebetter.

Check out Greg’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.

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Greg came to PT after his second shoulder surgery with one goal in mind: get better and get back to the life he loves. He was dedicated to healing and never let setbacks get the best of him.

He’s a golf lover, a proud grandfather, and a lifelong sports junkie. He went out of his way to say hi to everyone and was always up to talk sports. As a former Furman University baseball player, he brought a competitive edge that pushed his progress forward.

He defined Iron’s motto, ‘Get Better. Be Better’, and that mindset is exactly why he’s our Patient of the Month.

— Dr. Sandra Stoddard, , PT DPT

In Greg’s Own Words…

Two shoulder surgeries is no small thing. What did the first surgery teach you?

Full recovery would take patience and progress in small steps. Setbacks could be overcome.

As a former college baseball player, how has your athlete mindset helped you through recovery?

I know that hard work and mental toughness go hand in hand. Pain and discomfort are temporary.

What’s been the most rewarding part of getting stronger this time around?

Simply that I overcame the adversity of having to go through the process again.

Last year you had to sit out your golf trip but this year you were back! What did that first tee shot with your friends mean to you? 

My friends knew what I had been through and that it was uncertain for a long time whether I would be able to play this year. I had an amazing feeling of satisfaction with some relief that I could do it. My friends’ support and then happiness for me was quite meaningful.

Beyond golf, what’s one everyday thing you can do now that reminds you the hard work paid off?

Picking up my grandchildren with no second thoughts. Being able to get on and off the floor after playing with them.

Recovery can feel long. What advice would you give someone trying to stay motivated?

Every therapy session is a step in the right direction. Some days are better than others. There might be minor setbacks from everyday activities. Trust your therapist. No pace is too slow as long as you are following instructions and doing what you are supposed to be doing. Go into every session with the mindset that it is an opportunity to get better. Keep the end goal n mind.

Our motto at Iron is “Get Better. Be Better.” What does that phrase mean to you after this recovery journey?

First, to focus on healing and improving with a reminder that progress isn’t instant but it is ongoing. Never stop moving forward.