A medical mystery.

For Verretta Fields, a 16-year V Teamer from South Carolina, life took an unexpected turn when she began experiencing sharp pains in her neck and down her right side.

The discomfort was constant and intense, ultimately leading her to consult a neurosurgeon. Despite numerous tests — MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and even a nerve conduction study — there were no clear answers. Eventually, doctors concluded it must be an autoimmune condition and began treating her for fibromyalgia. However, the medications didn’t work, and like the tests, Verretta was left with more questions than answers.

That’s when she turned to Verizon’s 2nd.MD, a benefit that connects U.S. management employees and their dependents enrolled in a medical plan (excluding high-deductible plan) with world-class medical specialists. Using the 2nd.MD app on her phone, Verretta quickly scheduled a virtual appointment. Her new doctor carefully reviewed her records, and Verretta finally received the answers she had been desperately seeking — it was myofascial pain syndrome, a condition caused by painful knots in the muscles, that had been the source of all her suffering.

“It was such a relief,” said Verretta, a Benefits Consultant in Human Resources. “It’s been life-changing to know what’s happening with my body and how to manage it.”

While myofascial pain syndrome is chronic, Verretta now feels empowered. “Having that second opinion was a breath of fresh air. 2nd.MD is such an amazing benefit, and it didn’t cost me anything extra.”

Verretta’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy and utilizing the resources available to you. Learn more about 2nd.MD.

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