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Beez88 - Vicodin

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

The night before I was supposed to enter traditional detox I found Florida Detox. It was by the grace of God that I happened upon the testimonial of Stephanie and then back paged to read the Florida Detox website.

At the time I was consuming at least 10 Vicodin a day and probably at least 30 mg of Xanax. I had totally destroyed my career, my finances, and my family. In the months before I was detoxed I closed myself off from everybody, only leaving my house to do absoulutely what was needed. Suicidal thoughts ran through my mind hourly and I didn't think I could get back from this dark terrible place that my addiction had created.

Like many people my road to prescription medication addiction began with back surgery. I was also "diagnosed" with panic/anxiety disorder and depression and was prescribed Xanax and a multitude of medications over the years to treat those symtoms. I also indulged in a great deal of self-medication. I now realize that my addiction began many years ago. I only changed my vices. However, I had reached the point of being sick and tired of being sick and tired.

My experience with Florida Detox began after making that first phone call. Nobody judged me but rather they set in place all the mechanics to enable me to go in. Barb even called my family for me to explain the procedure. Shortly after the first phone call I received a call from my father who said I was set to go in on April 17, 2006.

When the car came to pick me up I had a wonderful driver, Faruz. He had also picked Stephanie up and he talked me through the whole ride. Had it not been for him I do not know if I would have made it in. In the following few days I met so many wonderful and great people, Dr. Sponaugle, his staff, the nurses and many of the other people who detoxed at the same time as me. I can not express in words what a relief it is to finally be able to, "leave your shame at the door," after so many years of having to lie & scheme to make sure I didn't go without my drugs. The procedure was so much less painful than going through being drug sick and in the following days everything was done to assure that I was mentally and physically comfortable. As I was also on benzos I had to be weaned off of those but was given medication to ensure that I didn't have seizures, withdrawls, or cravings.

I have been clean for a month now and it is a day by day process. However, everybody at Florida Detox has supported me. Dr. Sponaugle truly gave me my life back. I was finally diagnoised correctly and everything in my life made sense. I have ADHD and am on medication that treats the problem not the symptoms. I am also able to handle my back pain without the use of narcotics.

I would like to let anyone who reads this know that there is hope. No matter how far down you believe you are there are people who care and are willing and able to bring you back. Life is good again!

If anybody would like to contact me please send me a PM. I will return any messages within a short time.

Beez88
Tampa, FL



Bill, Destin FL March 2002 - methadone

A song was written several years ago about a young man that lived outside the massive walls of a monastery. He had to walk by the compound each day on his 10-mile journey to the market. Cursing every step of the way the song states. One day while on his walk one of the priest had ventured outside the steel gates. Wondering what is would be like to be warm, loved and fed, the young man asked the priest what it is like on the other side. The priest responded, We fall down, and we get up. We fall down and we get up. And the saints are just the sinners who fall down and get up. Sometimes we fall so low that we cannot get up on our own. I have had five back surgeries over the last ten years and had learned how to mask the pain with all kinds of opiates. For the last seven months I had been on physician prescribed methadone. I had no idea what it was doing to me. My physician here in Destin, Florida told me that I needed two weeks in-house detox treatment since I did not want to take methadone anymore. Needless to say, I was devastated. The Bible teaches me that if I will only seek, I will find. Having found much information on the Internet about Rapid Opiate Detox, I chose to pursue Florida Detox. One of the best decisions I have ever made. Dr. Sponaugle and his entire staff treated me with such respect and dignity. All went way beyond the necessary. It seemed as if I was in a ZERO DEFECT environment. As for the procedure, it was like a four day resting vacation. As the song states, we fall down, we get up. With God's love and grace and Dr. Sponaugle's expertise, I am up again. I truly believe God sent me to Florida Detox to get my life back. It worked!!! I have such a motivation to keep it that way. As I see it, mind controlling drugs are a bondage used to prevent us from having a joy filled life. Jesus did not die on the cross for me or you to live our life in handcuffs The freedom I feel is awesome!!! I urge you, if you are being controlled by opiates, please give Rose a call at Florida Detox and she will help you make the first step to freedom.

Bill
Destin, FL March 2002



Tommy - methadone

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

How do I begin to tell you how grateful I am to you? Tommy is doing so much better since his hospitalization. Of course, he still has a way to go, but you have put him on the right path to good health. He always felt like a loser while he was going to the Methadone Clinic. You have helped to give him back his self-esteem. For this I thank you with all my heart. Rick, you've given us both a new lease on life. I believe firmly that God led us to you. You are truly a blessing! By the way, the day we left to come home, you prayed that Angels would help us. They did in the form of a lovely young woman who helped us in our struggle to get home.

Thank you again! God Bless!

Always,
Eleanor
Somerset, MA - January 2002



Grateful mother - Oxycontin
September 19, 2001

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

I am a very grateful parent. My adult child, Tricia had her 28th birthday last week. I will try to tell the story that took place the last four years. I pray this will help others decide if Florida Detox is part of the answer to the life controlling problem one is seeking freedom from.

During the last few years I was alarmed every time I talked to Tricia. How close to death she has come. Tricia has a painful shoulder injury. During the last four years doctors prescribed pain medication, the strength increased to the addictive opiates. Tricia came to me two years ago and said the pain medication was out of control. She went into a detox hospital for seven days. Ten days out she relapsed. Five months ago Tricia was out of money, her addiction was costing about $1,600 a month, and decided to ask for help again. She found a pain management clinic and made an appointment for the next day, the next two months were expensive and the injection-able medication for the detox from OxyContin would be for to six months. Tricia's doctor made the decision to change Tricia to methadone, much less expensive. Tricia decided to go to a long term detox treatment facility to put her life back together but the methadone was very hard to detox from. The doctor at the long term rehab facility suggested a rapid detox for Tricia.

I went on the Internet and started to study the facilities. I had been told of experiences from family members who went to a facility in New York, a 24 hour in and out, the patient was basically on their own. I was praying and asking for guidance from God. I found Florida Detox, gave the office a call and spoke to Rose, the concern and care she permeated helped me with the questions we had.

Tricia had the procedure two and a half months ago. The staff thoroughly screened Tricia for the detox procedure. We felt confident with Dr. Sponaugle and his staff, you would think Tricia was the only patient with the time and care Tricia received. Every step of the way we were given information, medical assistance and emotional support. The procedure went as explained, about 4 hours, then Tricia was taken to the Telemetry floor, where she spent the next two days, the next morning Dr. Sponaugle released Tricia and we stayed at a nearby hotel and kept in touch with Dr. Sponaugle. The next morning was Sunday, Tricia and I went to the morning and evening service at a local church, the afternoon was spent resting. Monday morning we returned to the hospital for a conference with Dr. Sponaugle to go over after care for the next few weeks. Tricia went directly into the long term rehab program. She is half way through and I will never forget the phone call in which Tricia stated "I must have been so out of it Mom!" My daughter has returned from the hell of addiction.

The after care by Dr. Sponaugle is an ongoing treatment with his detox patients. He has Tricia on a pain medication for her shoulder that is not addictive. He walks his patients through the six months after care. Each patient is treated with their special needs, Dr. Sponaugle monitors the physical and mental needs. I can assure you that you are in the very best hands with Florida Detox. I must also add that Dr. Sponaugle is a born again believer and trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to discern and give care for his patients.

There is a Loving God to help in a time of trouble and He hears your cry for help, however you have been brought to this letter, I pray that you know it is by a Loving God, who has a plan for your life.

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11

Grateful mother
West Palm Beach, FL



Rick, Toledo, OH - Oxycontin

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

I apologize for not writing to you sooner, but I guess that speaks to the success of your program that I have been so busy getting on with my new life. It has now been three weeks since you detoxed me and I can't believe I am the same person that you saw just a short time ago. My journey seems to be an all too familiar story that took me from a 'normal' physically active person, who was prescribed pain medication from my family doctor, to a three-year dependence that left me a thoroughly broken man. After being diagnosed with a skin disorder inside my mouth that resulted in open blisters that were so painful that I could barely force food into my system my doctor gave me Vicoprofen fro pain relief. Two years and several doctors later the Vicoprofen wasn't yielding the pain relief as it did earlier and I found myself taking more to try to lesson the pain. It was about this time that my life took a dangerous turn that led me to a hell that only people who have experienced this situation could understand. About one year ago a different doctor prescribed what he referred to as a new medication that would help me 'considerably'; the name of the drug was Oxycontin.

At first Oxycontin worked effectively and there didn't seem to be any problems. However after about four months I noticed that I was continuously increasing the amount and frequency of the medication to achieve the pain relief that I originally received. I was now in a place that I have come to know as 'oxy hell'. My doctors did not understand the type of dependence that this drug creates and I found myself constantly worrying about how and when I would be able to refill or get a new script. I graduated to taking 200 milligrams a day and I woke up every morning with what I now know are withdrawal symptoms. Until I took my morning 'fix' I would shake uncontrollably and felt as if I would crawl out of my skin. My original condition, which started this mess, was dissipating and I knew that I was in big trouble after I "tried to reduce the Oxycontin gradually as my doctor had instructed. This left me in a state of failure and depression that was serious enough that I was contemplating actions that I don't care to remember. I was now at the end of my rope.

For some unknown reason while sitting at my desk one day I decided to go on the internet to look up Oxycontin to see if there was any additional information on this drug and what I found saved my life. Not only were there other people suffering as I was, but some of the stories were identical. This led me to search a little deeper when all of a sudden your web site popped up. I read with great interest the testimonials and treatment methods performed at your facility and how successful you have been. I was so excited that there might be an answer, however there was one big problem; being Jewish how could I go to a treatment facility that advertises under the name Christian Detox. After a great deal of reflection I decided to make the call. I am not an extremely religious person but I do believe in fate and that everything in life happens for a reason. Rose answered the phone and explained to me that your program was indeed a spiritual one however it would not be sacrilegious for me to undergo the treatment nor would you or your staff push anything unwanted upon your patients. I was sick and needed help, once I figured this out nothing else mattered.

My wife and I discussed the situation and we concluded that it was time to get on a plane and head to Florida. We arrived on Thursday and I was greeted by Rose at the hospital that afternoon. She immediately made me feel welcome and for the first time I finally found someone who understood my pain. Rose explained the procedure and continuously comforted me about my decision from a medical and religious standpoint. After a few tests I met with Dr. Sponaugle. God puts people in your life for a reason and Rick Sponaugle has most certainly changed my life. The detox began on Friday morning and I really don't remember much after that until Saturday when I noticed that the sick feeling was gone. As I stated earlier only those affected by these drugs can comprehend the relief that I felt, I was free. Aside from a little diarrhea and feeling a little light headed I felt fine. In Saturday evening I was released from the hospital and went back to my hotel room for a couple of days of recuperation. It was this time that I really found out just how dedicated and inspirational Dr. Sponaugle is!

We had several long discussions about life and spirituality over the phone, and yes even in my hotel room when the doctor stopped by to check on me. Life is an amazing journey and until now God was always a question mark with me, but now I know that there is a bigger picture and I can't ignore it anymore. I can't begin to thank you and your staff enough for the kindness, understanding and guidance you have given me during our brief time together and because of your efforts I now have a life free of bondage and misery. I know we will continue to communicate with each other and we look forward to our visit with you in the spring. Until then I wish you and your family all the best, and if you ever need any additional testimony on your unbelievable and life changing work, please don't hesitate to call.



Sidney - unknown

This card of thanks is written with the deepest thanks, respect and appreciation my heart can send. My husband, Sidney, told me how caring and wonderful a doctor you were but even more so was what a religious man you are.

I know Jehovah God had a hand in which hospital and treatment area my son was to go. When my husband told me you prayed for him (Corey/Casy/Gary?) I knew for a fact then you were "Heaven Sent." I too believe in the guidance and the power of prayer!

With utmost Thankfulness,
Verna and Sidney



A greatful wife - narcotics

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

It is with the deepest gratitude that I write to thank you for saving my husband's life. This week one year ago he was detoxed by you after developing a tolerance to exceedingly high doses of narcotic medications prescribed by physicians for pain accompanying his chronic illness. He was taking more pain medication than is taken by individuals who suffer from terminal cancer. He had developed so many side effects from his medications that it was difficult to tell what symptoms were caused by his illness and pain and what symptoms were caused by the medications independently. The medications had left him physically incapable of managing the day to day tasks much less the demanding work schedule he enjoyed prior to the onset of his declining health. He had begun to question the desirability of continuing his life under these circumstances. With only a few noteworthy exceptions, his physicians during this interval were non-responsive when we attempted to discuss our concerns and fears. Their only solution was to suggest changes in medications- from higher doses of one narcotic medication to higher doses of another. I began my search for alternatives.

Dr. Sponaugle, I believe that we were led to you by God. When I read the verse from Jeremiah on your web site, I felt that my prayers were about to be answered. Conversations with you further cemented this belief. As we discussed prior to his detox, my husband had been ill for ten years, during which time he was seen by numerous physicians in various specialties. It was and continues to be our experience that too many physicians become inured to the physical and emotional pain of chronic illness. They become focused on writing prescriptions and quickly moving on to the next patient. Quality of life issues are rarely addressed. In rare instances in which they are addressed, most physicians seem inadequate to the task. The patient and his family are left feeling very much alone.

You, in contrast, had a very different approach from the first moment we spoke. I was impressed from the start with the depth and breadth of your medical knowledge. You were familiar with the problems associated with my husband's condition, and you worked with us to develop a "game plan" for managing his physical pain, post detox. From the moment we arrived at the hospital to the day of our departure, you were concerned with my husband's physical and emotional health as well as his spiritual well-being-this latter issue having never been addressed by any of his physicians to date. You always greeted us with a cheerful countenance, and you helped instill in my husband a positive attitude, a belief that all would go well. I had no fear of the detox procedure. I knew that in your hands, my husband would fare well. I knew that you had been blessed from Above and that a Larger Hand was directing events. Notwithstanding the exceedingly high doses of narcotics that my husband had been taking, there were no complications or problems associated with his detox. My husband had no withdrawal symptoms and no side effects from the procedure. He began awakening naturally the night the procedure took place, and he was awake and interacting with us all by the next day. We traveled home with a certain hope that life would return to at least some semblance of normalcy. We have far exceeded that expectation.

It is now one year post-detox. While my husband takes some medication for pain management, it is a very low dose, approximately one twentieth of his pre-detox dose. His health has improved greatly, as has his outlook on life. He is a different man than the one who entered Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital one year ago. We thank you for giving so much of yourself during my husband's hospital stay as well as during the subsequent months to his detox. While we are exceedingly impressed with your skills as a physician, we are even more impressed with the care and concern you have for all of your patients and for your fellow man. While many physicians have technical proficiency relative to the art and science of medicine, too many are sadly lacking relative to issues of sensitivity, empathy, and compassion. You have been given a great gift of God, and we have been truly blessed to have benefited from it.

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers always.

A grateful wife,
Gainesville, Florida



K.A. Mississippi Sept 3, 2002 - opiates

I want to not only thank you for saving my life but also giving the meaning of life back to me again. It has truly been such a very long since I had any hope whatsoever. I have never been associated with such compassionate people before in my entire life. You were a Godsend. Opiates had begun to control my every waking moment and you helped me break that vicious cycle. I have a lot of had work ahead but at least I have a chance. At this point that is all I can ask for. God led me to you no doubt. God bless you both and I will keep in touch. With much love and gratitude.

William



Rose,

I wanted to contact you and let you know things are great in my life again. As well, I have not moved out of my home yet so I can be contacted @ my home. My cell number is XXX-XXX-XXXX. In a week or so, I will be temporarily living with my sister. Her number, in Atlanta, is XXX-XXX-XXXX. Thank you for all you did. I have already found a job. My self-confidence is finally back. The rapid detox procedure is somewhat of a miracle. Again, call me anytime.

Thanks again,

William



Jim, Florida

Dear Dr. Sponaugle,

I have written and rewritten this letter at least a thousand times in my mind the past few days and nothing comes out with enough thanks and gratitude for you, Rose, Brenda, and Cindy. How do you thank someone who has literally given you back your life? I don't have the words, yet I will try to express my deepest thanks to all of you.

The very first time I called your office and Rose answered the phone I felt something that can only be described as a warm guiding light coming from her. She was so helpful and patient with me. I know I am not the only person that was calling her, yet she made me feel that I was the only one who mattered at the moment. She did everything possible to get me in to see the Doctor as though I were his only patient. Her calm and reassuring efficiency helped me make that first step toward getting my life back. Thank you Rose.

The morning of the actual procedure when my wife and I were greeted by Cindy and then Brenda could have been a time of shame and disgrace. Instead both were so kind and understanding and non-judgmental during the pre-op procedure that any fears I may have had were gone long before the actual procedure started. Brenda and Cindy were gracious to me and took care of me during the difficult moments. They were very reassuring to my wife and even called to let her know when the procedure was over. They both went beyond the call of duty of regular nursing. Thank you Brenda. Thank you Cindy.

And now Doctor. The moment I met you I felt the presence of God. I have met few men as spiritual as you. In fact it was that very spirituality that led me to trust you and believe this might actually happen. I was almost afraid to hope because I was just about at the end of my rope. I know an act of Divine intervention occurred in bringing me to you. I am eternally grateful to you, Dr. Sponaugle, for everything you did to make this procedure possible for me.

I owe you so much and will do anything humanly possible for you that I can to show you my gratitude. Your loving continuous care afterwards, even over the holiday weekend, was without a doubt the most Christian example of care that I have ever known. Your spiritual support, your prayers, and your professional attitude leads me to truly believe that God, you, and I have some reason for meeting.

As I told you I researched this procedure far and wide and nowhere in the world was anyone willing to provide the service that you and your team did. Yes, others do the procedure, but none with God's hand guiding theirs like you and your staff. I am so grateful.

THANK YOU.