Movement disorders: Margaret DeStefano

When Margaret was 26 years old, she was in a bad auto accident. For years following the accident everything was fine, but in 2009 Margaret began experiencing severe pain in her face. Margaret was unable to talk and had to be careful eating. She was referred to a hospital out of the area and underwent surgery to repair her trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is the most complex of the cranial nerves. It is a nerve responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. Following the surgery however, Margaret began to experience severe complications, "I couldn't talk, the pain was so strong, and I couldn't move my eyes. They had damaged my cranial nerves and that led to a disruption in my vision." In 2017 the pain in Margaret's lower jar returned. Margaret was referred to several physicians outside of the area but none were able to help her. While she was working one day she began talking to a physician about her situation and she was informed that there was a new neurosurgeon in Ocala that may be able to help her, Dr. Reddy. Margaret made an appointment with Dr. Reddy and decided to move forward with another surgery on her trigeminal nerve. "I wish I would have known where Dr. Reddy was when I first started having problems years ago. His professionalism, personal service, and how he treated not only me, but my husband as well, was greatly appreciated. I wish more doctors were like him." During the procedure, Dr. Reddy removed the material from the previous surgery and wrapped the trigeminal nerve so it would not cause Margaret any more irritation. When Margaret woke up following the surgery she was pain free. "Dr. Reddy made the surgery so easy. I was only in the hospital overnight. If there is ever a patient that is skeptical or afraid but is still having pain, have them call me. I would be glad to talk to them. I am very thankful for Dr. Reddy and I am glad he is in Ocala so he can help others."