A Fort Lauderdale Woman’s Search for Relief from Arthritis Leaves Her Deeper in Pain and Debt
Introduction
Kitty Kessler, an 81-year-old woman from Fort Lauderdale, paid tens of thousands of dollars to Reclaim Health Group in Orlando, a company that promised to cure her arthritis with stem cell therapy. However, her dream of living a pain-free life has turned into a nightmare.
Kitty’s Journey with Arthritis
Kitty has suffered from arthritis for 27 years, which has affected her hands, feet, and shoulders. Despite her love for swimming, the pain has been a constant companion. She was desperate for a solution when she received a postcard from Reclaim Health Group, which claimed to offer a revolutionary treatment.
The Treatment
Kitty was invited to a free luncheon, where she was told that the company’s stem cell therapy could help grow new cartilage in her shoulder. She was also assured that the treatment was FDA-approved and safe. However, Reclaim Health Group’s website states that their treatment is not approved by the FDA and does not cure, mitigate, or treat any disease.
The Procedure
Kitty underwent the procedure, which involved stem cell injections. She was told that her pain would start to lessen within two days, but it only got worse. In fact, her pain increased for two months after the treatment. Four months have passed, and Kitty is still experiencing the same level of pain.
Concerns and Complaints
Kitty has filed a complaint with the Fort Lauderdale Police and the Florida Health Department, and the FDA has received other similar complaints about Reclaim Health Group. The company’s website also states that they source their stem cells from the National Organ Donor Program, but the program has clarified that they only deal with organs, tissues, and not with private companies.
Conclusion
Kitty’s story serves as a warning for others who are desperate for a solution to their chronic pain. As she put it, "I was an idiot. But I was desperate, and I needed to believe, 27 years of swimming through pain and not being able to sleep." Her case highlights the importance of thorough research and due diligence when seeking alternative treatments.
FAQs
Q: Is Reclaim Health Group FDA-approved?
A: According to their website, no, their treatment is not FDA-approved.
Q: Where do they source their stem cells?
A: They claim to source them from the National Organ Donor Program, but the program has clarified that they only deal with organs, tissues, and not with private companies.
Q: What can be done to protect seniors from unproven treatments?
A: Various state boards of medicine have the authority to investigate and take action against companies that charge for unproven treatments.
Q: What should you do if you’re considering alternative treatments for your chronic pain?
A: Always do your research, and consult with a medical professional before seeking alternative treatments.
