I was incredibly proud and deeply humbled to be invited to speak at TEDx Charleston. It was a powerful opportunity to share something that’s become the driving force of my life: the importance of patient advocacy and how it has the potential to change lives, including mine.
In my talk, I opened up about my journey from a devastating spinal injury to standing on that red dot, fueled by a mission to fix what’s broken in our healthcare system. Not with more policy, but with more people-first thinking.
The talk is live and I’d love for you to watch it.
Here are 5 things you’ll take away from the video
Why our healthcare system often treats the symptoms, not the person and what that means for real people navigating it every day.
How one missed diagnosis can cost years of pain and millions in unnecessary treatment.
What patient advocates really do and why they can be the key to better care, fewer mistakes, and more human outcomes.
How my own advocate, a chiropractor named Dr. Sharif, helped me reclaim my health and my life.
Why every patient and every family deserves someone in their corner when the system gets overwhelming.
Fun Fact from the Talk
The first person to really hear what was going on with my body wasn’t a surgeon or a specialist it was a chiropractor.
“Usually when you break your neck, that’s probably the last person you want to see. But Dr. Sharif listened, and that changed everything.”
My Final Thoughts
Being on that TEDx stage wasn’t just a moment for me it was a moment for every patient who’s ever felt lost in the system. I hope this talk helps someone see that they’re not alone. That help exists. That advocates are out there, fighting the fight alongside them.
If you or someone you love is navigating a tough diagnosis or chronic condition, please know this: you don’t have to do it alone.
Watch the Talk + Join the Movement
This one means a lot to me. I’d be honored if you gave it a watch.
Thanks for being part of this journey.
Matt Toresco
P.S. Share with a Friend Who Needs an Advocate