PAIN IN THE NECK

posted by James Reel

    In the latest Tucson Weekly, I offer a preview of a comedy-magic benefit for a foundation supporting those who suffer chronic pain. It all started with a local high school girl:

    In 1998, 16-year-old Amy Potter was a dedicated jock. She played varsity basketball and golf at Sabino High School, and worked out regularly to stay in shape through every athletic season. One day, in the presence of a trainer, she was doing a free parallel squat with 300 to 400 pounds on a barbell across her neck. Suddenly, she felt what her father, Tom, describes as "a hot dagger plunging into her neck."
    The pain never went away, although it eventually seemed to concentrate in her hands somewhat more than her neck and shoulders. Over the next few years, Amy went from one physician to another, getting five different diagnoses, but rarely any true relief.
    "There are so many doctors who don't understand chronic pain," says Amy. "A lot of them will just tell you that you need mental help. I heard I was a whiny girl."