Week Six Update - Turning a Corner

Its been almost six weeks since surgery and I'm doing really well. I can walk nearly two miles and sitting tolerance is increasing. I haven't had any painkillers since the leg issues. I've had about 5 nights of muscle relaxers because my neck is bothering me. The neck muscles are tense and one vertabrae hurts. I have occassional numbness in my left arm all the way to my fingers. I had my appt with Dr. Murray at OrthoCarolina on Wedesday. He took new xrays which he said look excellent. He thinks I am moving around very well. He believes the neck is still related to the nerve changes and should subside. He thought the egg sized lump at my abdomen looked worse in pictures and believes it may go down after several months. He has seen it before and believes it to be a result of the "sewing up" after surgery. If it doesn't go away, he'll send me to his vascular surgeon. He's referred me for PT which I'll start next week. And he'll willingly follow up with me in six weeks. He is by far the best, most compassionate spine doctor I have seen. With his credentials he certainly has the right to have the "god complex" that I've had to endure with so many surgeons but its just not his nature. Dave left the appointment saying he just wanted to hug him. It's great to know that there are still doctors out there like him. The whole experience has lifted my spirits. Thanks again to Mark Mintzer of Global Patient Network for arranging this.

I've been able to stay up and about for the full days, drive myself around now, clean up a bit. I still have soreness most of the day but nothing unbearable. Ice and heat are relieving it. One friend saw me in Target on Saturday and couldn't believe how well I was moving around. However, on Sunday I sneezed in Walmart and my left side really hurt. My back lets me know when I've done too much so I don't think I will overdo it.

I have been saying for the past 3 years that our move here to Charlotte hasn't ever felt like home (Boston) for me but at a time like this its getting close. The support that I have received from friends, neighbors, coworkers and acquaintances has been unbelievable! They are bringing meals, joining me for walks, and going out of their way to provide moral support. I am so thankful to my family and friends - near, far and online for all they have done.

My mom will be returning next week with the two little girls and I told her that I am ready to take back my duties. We'll do it slowly but I am finally feeling like I can take care of my family again which is nice.

I am turning a corner, haven't made it all the way around that corner yet but I feel optimistic that its coming.