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From Spine Surgery Survivor to Recovery Advocate
Hi, I’m Lola Phillips, a spine surgery recovery advocate, author, entrepreneur, and administrative professional passionate about helping others navigate life before, during, and after spine surgery.
My journey with spinal conditions spans decades and includes four spine surgeries in 1994, 2018, 2021, and 2026. Through the challenges of chronic pain, recovery setbacks, and rebuilding my life after surgery, I discovered a calling: helping others feel less alone on their healing journey.
Today, I combine personal experience, practical resources, and encouragement through Heal Strong, a community dedicated to empowering spine surgery patients with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to recover with confidence.
Balancing Work, Family, and Purpose
By day, I’m an administrative professional, managing operations and keeping complex processes running smoothly in the corporate world.
By every other hour of the day, I’m the creator behind Pixel Vixen and Heal Strong, where creativity, advocacy, and problem-solving come together.
When I’m not designing digital resources, writing recovery guides, or building online communities, I’m a proud mom to three amazing children and blessed with two incredible bonus kids.
The Home Team
- Two daughters and one son keeping life exciting in Texas.
The Alaska Crew
- Two bonus kids who give us the perfect reason to escape north whenever we can.
Texas Heart, Alaskan Soul
While I enjoy the adrenaline of a Formula 1 race, my soul finds peace in nature.
Our favorite family vacations aren’t spent in crowded tourist destinations. Instead, you’ll find us searching for a secluded cabin tucked away among the trees, surrounded by mountains, wildlife, and the quiet that only Alaska can provide.
My Perfect Reset
- Coffee on a deck overlooking an Alaskan valley.
- A mountain trail waiting to be explored.
- A cozy cabin after a long day outdoors.
- No cell service. No distractions. Just family time.
Why I Created Heal Strong
After experiencing firsthand how overwhelming spine surgery can be, I realized there was a need for resources that combined medical preparation, practical planning, emotional support, and real-world recovery experiences.
That’s why I created Heal Strong.
My mission is simple: help patients feel informed, prepared, supported, and empowered throughout their recovery journey.
Whether you’re facing your first surgery or navigating a revision procedure, I want you to know that healing isn’t a race. It’s a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone.
What I’m Building
This site represents the intersection of my professional organization, creative passion, and personal mission.
Heal Strong
Recovery guides, planners, journals, trackers, resources, and encouragement for spine surgery patients and caregivers.
Creative Assets
High-quality digital products powered by my love of Canva, AI, design, and productivity.
Curated Recommendations
Products, tools, and brands that support healing, wellness, comfort, and everyday life.
The Entrepreneurial Journey
Sharing my experiences creating digital products, building online businesses, and turning passion into purpose.
My story is proof that strength isn’t about never falling. It’s about getting back up, one recovery, one step, and one day at a time. If you’re facing spine surgery, chronic pain, or a difficult recovery, I’m here to help you Heal Strong. 💙
