When Sandi Potter fell while dancing at a birthday party last November, she initially believed she had only pulled a muscle. However, the pain persisted, and after visiting a chiropractor, she was directed to the emergency room at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. A CT scan revealed that her spine was broken due to a burst fracture in her lower back, putting her ability to walk at risk.
Potter, 51, who lives in Daytona Beach, faced additional stress as she did not have health insurance. “I was terrified,” she said. “I kept thinking, ‘How am I going to survive this?’ I couldn’t afford help, but I couldn’t live like that.”
She underwent emergency spinal reconstruction surgery performed by neurosurgeon Dr. Federico Vinas at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. The procedure involved screws and bone grafts to stabilize her spine and prevent permanent damage. The surgery prevented what could have been lifelong chronic pain or paralysis.
After the operation, Potter worked with the hospital’s financial assistance team and provided documentation of her income and medical need for treatment. She qualified for full support under AdventHealth’s financial assistance program. “I thought I’d be paying for this for the rest of my life,” Potter said. “When I found out I owed nothing, I cried. It felt like someone had lifted a hundred pounds off my shoulders.”
Potter is now able to walk again and has returned to work and physical activities such as Pilates and dancing.
Dr. Vinas commented on her progress: “Sandi’s story reminds us why we’re here,” he said. “We don’t just fix broken bones; we help people stand up again, in every sense of the word.”
According to AdventHealth representatives, Potter’s case reflects their broader mission of extending care beyond immediate medical needs. In 2023, AdventHealth invested millions in financial assistance programs as well as unreimbursed care and community health initiatives across Florida.
AdventHealth Orlando is located in Orlando, Florida and has operated since 1908 under its current president Terry Shaw; it serves patients through various specialized services including pediatric care and also functions as a training hospital.
“They saved me,” Potter added about her experience with AdventHealth staff. “Not just my back. They saved me.”
