This is why I have been a bit AWOL from here and will be down the road. This is long overdue and I actually ran out of options well over a year ago but gave it what for just in case I could avoid surgery, sigh.....no such luck.
My last slip on our stairs has resulted in such a dramatic increase in my back, leg pain, numbness, weakness and other 'fun' symptoms that an MRI was approved in less than 12 hours. The MRI had to wait a week until I could get things in order, mostly at work. I had the MRI this past Monday, saw my neurosurgeon Tuesday morning and by late today, spinal fusion surgery had been approved. The doctor wanted to do surgery the 25th but I begged and groveled for one more week and this will now be done March 4th. This is the third spinal fusion for me. There is a peace and calm about it this time that all will be all right. Not easy mind you but the Lord never told our lives would be easy. We just know everything will somehow be OK. These are not pleasant to undergo in any way shape or form.
AJ, bless his awesome love, kind, caring nature, knows something big is up. He has been a true buddy and he is doing well. His latest blood work came back with 'normal' thyroid levels and functions which is really good news but still leaves us in the dark as to what caused his seizure. A bit disconcerting to say the least but all we can do is watch him closely and let him be AJ. He is a really fine 'nurse' and I am 100% sure he will be with me at all times through my next 'adventure'. I would take him to the hospital me if I could.
I was also FINALLY given adequate pain medication after the surgeon finally understood how badly my 'pain' doctor had treated me not to mention the other doctors involved with my care. What a blessing to get a bit of pain relief, not totally, as that will never happen, but enough to make a difference. My neurosurgeon felt quite bad about it all and had tears in her eyes as we talked. This is a surgery to give me back some stability and perhaps a bit of pain relief. I am not expecting much there as the MRI revealed drastic changes in my entire spine, pretty severe degenerative arthritis with several other vertebrae badly damaged. There is permanent nerve damage and to what extent is anyone's guess. Only time will tell if this will get better, if it does at all. My last day of work is March 1st and I will be off for at least 12 weeks. I may not have a job to return to as I am a temporary state employee with no rights or benefits. As the union is the SEIU, which I loathe, I am all right with this and the Lord will open other doors as this one is probably closing. My wife's job is also coming to an end right about when I get sliced and diced as she is also a temporary employee for the state. Things will be extremely tough on us financially but I am pretty sure the Lord set it up this way, so she can be home with me the first few weeks and kick my a$$ when needed. Historically speaking, I am not a model patient after any surgery.
I will be in the hospital for at least three days, probably four and will be house bound for at least six weeks. One of our very good friends is selling me an older laptop so I will be able to keep on writing, posting, emails etc. He has agreed to let me pay whatever we can swing and he does not need the money. It is a very nice laptop. I will not be allowed to sit for very long for probably six to eight weeks and I have to be REALLY a good patient this time around. Too much is at stake and I am no good to anyone, for anything if I do not take care of me first. This is something I have a 'slight' problem with, and always have struggled with, putting me first. I have received quite a few 'threats' from friends, family if I misbehave.
So here it is and prayers always are appreciated. I really dislike writing about 'me' but it is very humbling to me and I am honored to know so many folks care.
As always, I am your most obedient and humble servant. PatriotUSA
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4 Comments - Share Yours!:
I hope the surgery will have a significant beneficial effect, and you'll gain some stability so you won't have any more spills.
It's good to know that AJ's tests came back negative, and I'm sure he'll look after you as you recuperate from your op.
All you have to do is try & a) be good and b) do as you're told!
I will be praying that God shall grant you healing because I know that it is His Will that you prosper and be in health. God Bless You and keep you and e-mail me when you can and tell me how you are getting along. I am glad to hear that A.J. is doing better.
Thank you both for your comments, AJ
IS DOING VERY WELL AND i WILL POST AN UPDATE ABOUT ME AND aJ AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
His latest blood work came back with 'normal' thyroid levels and functions which is really good news but still leaves us in the dark as to what caused his seizure. A bit disconcerting to say the least but all we can do is watch him closely and let him be AJ.
As I mentioned in my email to you, AJ's episode may have had its roots in coping with the obvious stress that abounds at maison PatriotUSA. The best thing to do is let AJ's love keep flowing into you. He'll know that he's doing some good and you'll be on the receiving end of some unconditional love, never a bad thing.
Historically speaking, I am not a model patient after any surgery.
You will be this time! I declare, or the lot of us will troop up there and lash you to the boxsprings, if that's what it takes. There's too much at stake this time around for you to have the luxury of being your usual crusty, cantankerous, curmudgeonly self. Waaaaay too much.
Working on a couple of different essays that should start popping up before the weekend's over.
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