Patient Experiences

Zipping Back to an Active Life after Shoulder Surgery

My name is Shea McGovren. I am a daughter, sister, girlfriend, friend, niece, cousin, granddaughter and health care provider. I love to laugh, waterski, snowski, live, white water raft, walk our dog and to practice physical therapy. For nearly 10 years I was unable to enjoy all these activities and many others due to the excruciating pain that I endured. At 15 years young, I injured my shoulder in an extreme traction mechanism in my high school English class. I was forced to see many doctors but there was only one team that specifically knew what procedure would completely end my pain – Dr. Brian Cole and his wonderful Physician Assistant, Kyle Pilz.

August 2006: Anterior Capsular Shift
October 2008: Bicep Tenodesis to Soft Tissue
August 2009: Debridement
July 2010: Possible Bicep Tenotomy but physician stated 'could not find bicep'
November 11, 2011: Bicep Tenodesis Revision by Dr Brian Cole [yes, I still have my bicep!]

I am so lucky to truly say I have been given my life back but only due to Dr. Cole and his team. I am currently able to sleep through the night, do my job with ease, be generally happier and put greater energy into my relationships with family, friends and boyfriend.

Recently my wonderfully supportive, loving, beautiful mother and I won a trip to Miraval Resort and Spa where we went zip lining. As I jumped from the platform, I sped away from all the pain, anger, nights spent crying, the tests, the medications and into a completely different life with a completely different Shea.

Thank you to these wonderful people who put up with me day in and day out.

My Mother – Susan, for never giving up. We knew I wasn't crazy! :)
My Father – John, for always supporting me.
My Brother – Matt, for always asking how I was.
My Boyfriend – Brad, your consistent optimism was exactly what I needed.

    — Shea McGovren