Lindsay, Mason & Cheryl Gil

The healing work that occurs as a result of the hands and hearts of care partners spans far beyond the four walls of the hospital. March celebrated many health care-associated recognitions, one of which was National Athletic Training Month.

For more than 10 years, the Athletic Training program through Parrish Healthcare has partnered with local high schools to provide physical wellness programs and acute injury treatment, both on and off the field.

Recently Mason, a student athlete from Astronaut High School, was playing football when he suffered severe pain to his ankle. His mom, Cheryl, rushed him to PMC’s emergency department where they found that Mason had suffered not one, but two ankle fractures. He needed surgery and Cheryl was nervous.

Cheryl explains, “As someone who had many knee injuries due to athletics, I am very opinionated about who does surgeries on me but am extra picky when it comes to my children. Dr. Bryan Parry put me at ease as soon as we met with him. He was knowledgeable and was truthful about Mason possibly needing a follow-up surgery.

But, thankfully, we never needed to, thanks to Dr. Parry and team. I trust the Parrish team fully when it comes to Mason’s care, which says a lot.”

Cheryl continues, “After surgery, Mason needed continued care so that he could fully heal. Lindsay Minthorn was his Athletic Trainer. She is excellent at her job. The one-on-one time that she gave Mason was far beyond what we expected. She actually met me in the early morning after Mason’s surgery just to make sure he had everything he needed. She continued to work with him during school and at practice until he was released. Even today, she continues to work with him to help him keep his ankle strong so that he can play at his highest level of competition.

We cannot thank Dr. Parry and Lindsay enough for the excellent care that they gave Mason throughout his injury and recovery. He is performing so well that you’d never know his ankle had ever been broken. We are eternally thankful.”