Patient Testimonial: In Good Hands

At 21, Jaden Huffman was enjoying his favorite things—spending time friends, basketball and staying active in his church—until severe pain in his ribs struck without warning and made even the simplest moments unbearable.

“It was what I imagined being stabbed felt like,” Huffman said. “I didn’t sleep for nearly four months. I would wake up in the middle of the night in searing pain.”

Seeking answers, Huffman came to St. Mary’s Neurosurgery, where an MRI revealed a tumor on his spinal cord. He was referred to Marshall Health Network neurosurgeon Matthew C. Werthammer, MD, who guided him through the next steps.

Because the tumor was located near the spinal cord, Huffman’s case required advanced neurosurgical expertise, specialized technology and a coordinated care team.

“Tumors involving the spinal cord require a highly precise approach because even small changes in that area can affect movement, sensation and overall function,” said Matthew C. Werthammer, MD, neurosurgeon with Marshall Health Network. “Our goal was to safely remove the tumor while preserving neurological function and helping the patient return to his normal activities as quickly as possible.”

“The surgery I needed was going to be intense and risky,” Huffman said. “But Dr. Werthammer was so confident that everything would be done right and that I would be okay.”

For Huffman and his family, having that level of care close to home brought peace of mind and faster access to treatment.

“We didn’t have to think about going out of state because he was the best,” Huffman said. “When you go to Marshall Health Network, you’re going to be in good hands.”

Less than six months post-surgery, Huffman celebrated a milestone that once felt uncertain: dancing at his wedding. For him, it was more than a special moment. It was a reminder that healing had given him the chance to fully step back into life.

Advanced neurosurgery care is available at Marshall Health Network. For more information, call: