I did it and I have to say I am glad I persevered through all this pain and didn't let it override my judgment. Having had acdf Nov 22 and now lumbar microdiskectomy, I have to admit I am now relieved to have it over with.

Something I understand from all this is that PAIN IS THE IMPETUS FOR CHANGE...and whether you want to embrace pain as some try to explain as a form of accepting it, I found that I just kept telling myself nothing stays the same forever...and I wasn't about to settle for a life of pain ...a pain at least that encumbered my every thought.

So for those of you deciding or going through that horrible phase of deliberating over surgery, let me tell you that it is worth a try when the pain is no longer a way that you can live on this earth.


Also let me advise that you must have an attitude that encourages you through the pain...one that tells you to work through it with some kind of movement of your body ...whether that is possible before your surgery or after, only you know what is tolerable. Also, make sure that you have either a loving pet to come home to OR a family/friend that is always checking in on you.

I can only tell you that I have endured the depths of despair from chronic pain and wished that something could end it, even if that meant me ,,,,,only to rise above that and keep telling myself that someone out there..some Dr. with the knowledge and compassion could help me have some kind of life after this major debilitation...and my faith endured and this has happened so far. Its been four years since April 2000 and I have been on this long journey.

So please know..you are not alone....I am living evidence that there is a chance ahead for people who suffer like us...

Keep the faith....keep reading on this forum.. keep yourself as strong as each day permits you.

Your friend in spirit. Nearly new again.. actually possible... Nero