123dietdrpepper
11-24-2007, 10:30 AM
Is my surgery day. I have a mixed bag of emotions and it varies from moment to moment which is par for the course. You would think this being my 4th back surgery that I would be an old pro. I think the thing that scares me more is that my surgeon has added to the surgery. He discussed with me about fusing L4. We are suspicious about this level since I have a herninated disc and the nerve block took away the pain. Right now our plan of attack is:
*Possible Fusion L4
*L4 Laminectomy
*Revision of L5
*Insertion of Cage L5/S1
*Decompression of L4 and L5 Nerve
*Possible abdominal Plate
*Removal of Right Side of Hardware
I have given him permission to do what he thinks is the best once he is in and he has estimated surgery to be 6 to 8 hours in length. Surgery will begin at 6:30. He has also cancelled his afternoon surgery. He wants to make sure that he has sufficient time for my case.
I pray that this is the answer to my pain but it was very scary when my surgeon told me this is not a guarantee and that I may end up in more pain. I know he has to tell me the worst case scenario. I just have to put my FAITH in the hands of my surgeon and the LORD and what happens....happens. I have to take the risk of surgery for my children's sake.
If you could, please add me to your prayers this Wednesday!
*Possible Fusion L4
*L4 Laminectomy
*Revision of L5
*Insertion of Cage L5/S1
*Decompression of L4 and L5 Nerve
*Possible abdominal Plate
*Removal of Right Side of Hardware
I have given him permission to do what he thinks is the best once he is in and he has estimated surgery to be 6 to 8 hours in length. Surgery will begin at 6:30. He has also cancelled his afternoon surgery. He wants to make sure that he has sufficient time for my case.
I pray that this is the answer to my pain but it was very scary when my surgeon told me this is not a guarantee and that I may end up in more pain. I know he has to tell me the worst case scenario. I just have to put my FAITH in the hands of my surgeon and the LORD and what happens....happens. I have to take the risk of surgery for my children's sake.
If you could, please add me to your prayers this Wednesday!
Sponsor
CaityGirl
11-24-2007, 11:10 AM
I'm sorry you're going through this. I certainly know a little bit of what you're going through right now. It is so hard to turn your body over to such an involved surgery. And you're right, it gets even scarier the more times you do it. You'll be in my prayers. Good luck!
Moldova
11-24-2007, 11:43 AM
Diet, my heart is with you, I feel your concern. But you are right: just think positive and have faight. Nothing you can do but hope for the best.
My surgery was 9 hours. Usualy surgery like this Drs do only one a day. He never schedules other surgeries that day. I don't blame them, a lot of hard work and concentration, is in it?
Sweet heart, we all pray for the best and we can't predict what happens after. Hopefuly it will work for you this time. Think this way: at least you have hope with next surgery to be fixed right. I was also so scared of another major surgery i need (4 levels and revision) but now I would go without even thinking twice, but nobody wants to touch me due to ARC... and future doesn't look too good for me as much as I try to ignore thinking about it. When they have plans for us - than they have hope and this is so good.
You have your loving family to support you, you have all of us to be here for you, you have trust in your Dr - what can be better?? I will be praying for you, thinking of you and your family that day - when you will come home, would like to hear at least couple of words from you how are you doing. And lets hope that your recovery will be smooth and sucessful.
Love, Moldova.:angel:
My surgery was 9 hours. Usualy surgery like this Drs do only one a day. He never schedules other surgeries that day. I don't blame them, a lot of hard work and concentration, is in it?
Sweet heart, we all pray for the best and we can't predict what happens after. Hopefuly it will work for you this time. Think this way: at least you have hope with next surgery to be fixed right. I was also so scared of another major surgery i need (4 levels and revision) but now I would go without even thinking twice, but nobody wants to touch me due to ARC... and future doesn't look too good for me as much as I try to ignore thinking about it. When they have plans for us - than they have hope and this is so good.
You have your loving family to support you, you have all of us to be here for you, you have trust in your Dr - what can be better?? I will be praying for you, thinking of you and your family that day - when you will come home, would like to hear at least couple of words from you how are you doing. And lets hope that your recovery will be smooth and sucessful.
Love, Moldova.:angel:
123dietdrpepper
11-24-2007, 02:44 PM
Thank you. I will post the minute I get home or have my hubby post a quick note when I get out of surgery.
carol632
11-24-2007, 03:08 PM
I sure can understand what you are feeling, diet. No matter how often we have surgery, there is always that nagging fear in the back of our minds. As I get older I worry about not waking up more than I worry about the surgery's success or failure. Since I have adult onset scoliosis and osteopenia, every surgery seems to cause another problem to raise it's ugly head. I guess we just do that which we think is best and leave the rest in His Heavenly Hands.
I pray that this revision and fusion will work out well for you.
Carol
I pray that this revision and fusion will work out well for you.
Carol
chatterboxsd
11-24-2007, 03:26 PM
Diet, You're at the top of my list these next few day and weeks. I suspect you're in many people's hearts and minds. I just hope and pray this is an answer for you. It's your turn now! Keep your hope and faith up. You've done all you can do, so now turn it over to your surgeon and the higher powers. When it's over, the ball will be back in your court, as you know all too well, to do all the things you can for the best possible recovery. And we'll be here for you!
((((((HUGS!!!)))))
- Margaret
((((((HUGS!!!)))))
- Margaret
Frosty6
11-24-2007, 05:45 PM
Diet,
I have been praying for you consistantly, to find answers, to reduce pain etc. I will pray for you and for God to guide the surgeons hands. I am really hopeful that this surgery will give you back more of you life. We all think of the worst when we go under the knife and pray for the best. The way you recover is as important as the surgery itself. I truly believe some of the things I did and shouldn't have made matters worse for me so please please do EVERYTHING they say to the best of your ability.
Hugs to you! Lisa
I have been praying for you consistantly, to find answers, to reduce pain etc. I will pray for you and for God to guide the surgeons hands. I am really hopeful that this surgery will give you back more of you life. We all think of the worst when we go under the knife and pray for the best. The way you recover is as important as the surgery itself. I truly believe some of the things I did and shouldn't have made matters worse for me so please please do EVERYTHING they say to the best of your ability.
Hugs to you! Lisa
xzx
11-24-2007, 05:49 PM
Hi Pepper,
Have not on for a while ( been ill ) Just reading your post. I want to let you know that I will be praying for you and your surgeon. I hope that this surgery helps you get back to being to where you need and want be. Having back surgery myself and looking at more, I can understand where you are coming from. I am just going to hope and pray that this is the answer you have been looking for, you so deserve it. Just take it easy sweetie! Let us know how you are on the post op side. Prayers to you, family and surgeon.
Have not on for a while ( been ill ) Just reading your post. I want to let you know that I will be praying for you and your surgeon. I hope that this surgery helps you get back to being to where you need and want be. Having back surgery myself and looking at more, I can understand where you are coming from. I am just going to hope and pray that this is the answer you have been looking for, you so deserve it. Just take it easy sweetie! Let us know how you are on the post op side. Prayers to you, family and surgeon.
Tucsonlady40
11-24-2007, 06:42 PM
Diet,
You should already know that your on top of "everyones" prayer list come Wednesday. You didn't even need to ask!!!!! But I know your scared.
You'll be fine. After you recover anyway. Just remind yourself of your previous surgeries and knowing that you came out fine. We'll all be here to remind you constantly not to overdo it!! Knowing that your parents are there and that your Inlaws will be next, will give us a little assurance that you'll behave haha. some humor for ya.
Like you said, put it in the Lords hands, because you know he'll take care of you.
Take care and just remember, were "all" pulling for you!!! (((((HUGS))))))
You should already know that your on top of "everyones" prayer list come Wednesday. You didn't even need to ask!!!!! But I know your scared.
You'll be fine. After you recover anyway. Just remind yourself of your previous surgeries and knowing that you came out fine. We'll all be here to remind you constantly not to overdo it!! Knowing that your parents are there and that your Inlaws will be next, will give us a little assurance that you'll behave haha. some humor for ya.
Like you said, put it in the Lords hands, because you know he'll take care of you.
Take care and just remember, were "all" pulling for you!!! (((((HUGS))))))
jeffengland81
11-24-2007, 07:18 PM
Good luck. Think positive thoughts;)
BlueAtlas
11-24-2007, 07:27 PM
Hey sweetie! You're in the BEST hands you can be in: the Lord's!!! You keep looking up and just rest in Him. You've done everything that's within your own power, now leave it up to Him. I'll be praying, along with many, many others! We'll look forward to your or your hubby's post after surgery.
Blessings,
Emily
Blessings,
Emily
tmarkfer
11-24-2007, 11:52 PM
You will be in my prayers on Wednesday! I hope all goes well for you and I look forward to talking to you when we both get home from the hospital and can write on the computer. Good Luck and god Bless!:)
jinks66
11-25-2007, 05:30 AM
If there's any truth in the power of positive thinking then you'll be sailing through cause there's so many of us out here sending positive thoughts your way... Hope the next couple of days are easy on you and the family, and we'll chat again very soon!
all the very very best
Jinks
all the very very best
Jinks
deb53
11-25-2007, 03:29 PM
Hi Pepper,
Hang in there the next few days and let your Mom continue to take good care of you. You are and will be in my thoughts and prayers. PLEASE get your hubby to post so we can all know how you are. Lots of ((((((hugs)))))))
We all care about you!!:angel:
Deb
Hang in there the next few days and let your Mom continue to take good care of you. You are and will be in my thoughts and prayers. PLEASE get your hubby to post so we can all know how you are. Lots of ((((((hugs)))))))
We all care about you!!:angel:
Deb
Sage48
11-25-2007, 04:07 PM
Diet...you are doing the right thing...trying to get yourself well...for your sake and that of your children...that is your goal. Your family is there for you and will take the best care of you. Just have to give up and listen to what the Doctor needs you to do...NOT what you may want. (that is the hardest part..)... I agree with what you did with your physician...turning yourself over to him..letting him do what he feels needs to be done once he is operating...trust is the biggest issue...and you seem to have it with your doctor. You know that I am praying and thinking about you..only good thoughts. We are going to think positive here...everything is going to go very, very well...and you are going to have a wonderful recovery...and best of all the pain will be gone... What a wonderful thought...just keep it in mind. Here's some hugs...and know that we are all thinking of you...
Love,
Leslie
Love,
Leslie
Round1
11-25-2007, 05:44 PM
Okay diet, lets place a bet here. I bet this will be the longest thread here on the board with everyone wishing you the very very best.
Diet of course you are a little nervous and all sorts of things running through your mind but you said it you are doing it for your kids. I know how you feel, as that was the bottom line for me to. Diet I hope and pray and I really mean it, that you get some relief from your pain. I know there will be good and bad days (says she who cried most of the afternoon in pain and frustration) you are doing the right thing, and no surgeon is going to gaurantee as you know that he will make you better, unfortunately. So wishing you the very best for Wednesday while I will be praying for you with the added advantage of being 5 hours ahead of you over here!!!
best of luck to you and your surgeon. Look forward to hearing from you when all is well. Your kids are in good hands now with your family so relax your work is done.
Round 1
Diet of course you are a little nervous and all sorts of things running through your mind but you said it you are doing it for your kids. I know how you feel, as that was the bottom line for me to. Diet I hope and pray and I really mean it, that you get some relief from your pain. I know there will be good and bad days (says she who cried most of the afternoon in pain and frustration) you are doing the right thing, and no surgeon is going to gaurantee as you know that he will make you better, unfortunately. So wishing you the very best for Wednesday while I will be praying for you with the added advantage of being 5 hours ahead of you over here!!!
best of luck to you and your surgeon. Look forward to hearing from you when all is well. Your kids are in good hands now with your family so relax your work is done.
Round 1
caszyman
11-25-2007, 08:52 PM
Best wishes, Diet. I certainly hopes this surgery resolves your pain issues. I'll be thinking of you. cas
ReneeMarie
11-26-2007, 01:19 AM
Heya Pep....Oh my Goddness...the 28th!!!???
I have NOT been on or around in a bit and I didn't realize you were going back so quick.I will indeed keep you in my prayers!
I too am off and running on the 10th of ole' December!! Ha ! The day before my birthday. :(
I am gonna post the details in a minute but wanted to let ya know I will be thinking about ya. I am sooooooooooooo fricken scared. My 1st REAL back work.
Take care.........Renee:angel:
I have NOT been on or around in a bit and I didn't realize you were going back so quick.I will indeed keep you in my prayers!
I too am off and running on the 10th of ole' December!! Ha ! The day before my birthday. :(
I am gonna post the details in a minute but wanted to let ya know I will be thinking about ya. I am sooooooooooooo fricken scared. My 1st REAL back work.
Take care.........Renee:angel:
clover60
11-26-2007, 04:07 AM
Pepper
You know I will be thinking of you on Wed. I pray that this is your last surgery and that recovery will be fast and as painless as possible.
Think of the beach sweetie. We are all here for you.
I pray that God guides your surgeons hands on Wed and that everything works out just as expected.
I know I have not been on here lately but I will be checking for an update. Hopefully your hubby can post like last time
Good luck and Big Hugs.
You know I will be thinking of you on Wed. I pray that this is your last surgery and that recovery will be fast and as painless as possible.
Think of the beach sweetie. We are all here for you.
I pray that God guides your surgeons hands on Wed and that everything works out just as expected.
I know I have not been on here lately but I will be checking for an update. Hopefully your hubby can post like last time
Good luck and Big Hugs.
Tulip15
11-26-2007, 02:40 PM
Diet, I hold you in my thoughts and prayers on Wednesday, as your going through your surgery think of some place peaceful like walking on the beach or relaxing by some beautiful stream...........I wish you all the best with the surgery and that this will give you much needed pain relief.
Good luck to you.
Tulip15
Good luck to you.
Tulip15
dub1
11-26-2007, 10:28 PM
I will be praying for you ;) After all this time you finally have some hope in the future. I wish you the very best and if, lord willing, this takes some of the pain away then it was worth every second. I have been thinking lately that if I must endure the pain here on earth then the lord must have something special in mind for me on the other side. I think this is true for all chronic pain people. We have the ability to change peoples perspectives. I truly feel for you. Godbless you and your family. Let us know how your progress is going.
Chris54
11-26-2007, 10:44 PM
Pepper, It is now down to just hours away.
:angel::angel::angel::angel:My prayers are with you:angel::angel::angel:
:angel::angel::angel::angel:My prayers are with you:angel::angel::angel:
123dietdrpepper
11-26-2007, 11:05 PM
Thank you Chris and everyone. I am soooooooooooooooo nervous about everything. Tomorrow my day is jammed packed so I am hoping that it will keep me busy so I have less time to think about things.
CaliGirl
11-26-2007, 11:19 PM
I wish you all the best on Wed! I know what you're facing has got to be frightening but from reading your posts it sounds like you had no choice but to go through with this. Just think of the benefits you will have down the road when all of this is finally fixed. Look forward to hearing from you soon!
greenjeans
11-27-2007, 12:52 AM
Wishing you God Speed to a fast recovery!
Hugs!
Hugs!
yvette777
11-27-2007, 09:07 AM
Okay buddy. I am here..haven't been here in awhile. I dont' know if
Shawley has been I will ring his bell. So your support system is ready. God is with you, and your family is with you.
We all have your "back".
I remember the day you had your last surgery...I was on "needles in pins" in multiple ways lol. All day I prayed for you. You were my inspiration and others as well. You were one of my decididing factors as you know. I watched you I asked you minute by minuted details of your surgery, recovery etc. - I wanted to know what exactly I was in for, what was going to happen. How bad it was going to be. Diet Dr. Pepper is a common known name around here lol. You have been a common name for over a year now. :)
You have been a tremendous support system to me, and my family and I believe God sent you to me, and to everyone on here who has been lucky enought to be touched by you.
Your recovery was going so well, and I remember when it all turned around, and it sucked, we all felt let down for you.
Well we are here to hold your hand, meet you on the beach once again, these damn spines will not defeat us. Life will be better, this time they can fix the right problem and get it...I am glad they are going in the way they are not jus twith one idea. This way they can fix whatever is going on.
ITs like my h says sometimes architects are just eductated butholes. They draw up plans and expect them to work in the field. For example, ya know with surgeons oh your having this spytom so that has to be this disc lets just fuse that. This surgeon isn't doing that, he is going in and going to explore and fix whatever needs fixing.
When I have read about failed back syndrome it said alot of times it from where they fuse the wrong disc or whatever. So it seems like your doctor is going in with an open mind to look at the whole picture and structure.
I will be here every step of the way, I know you have a tremendous family support system. Your faith is Strong, your gonna make it. You will conquer this.
Say goodbye to the past pain, Today is the last day of this crap. Tomorrow is start of a new life, and the beginning of your healing and your future and all the things you've been missing out on..once you heal ofcourse lol.
Hugs buddy..love u. I will be praying for you and thinking of you all day.
I'll be waiting for your posts.
Shawley has been I will ring his bell. So your support system is ready. God is with you, and your family is with you.
We all have your "back".
I remember the day you had your last surgery...I was on "needles in pins" in multiple ways lol. All day I prayed for you. You were my inspiration and others as well. You were one of my decididing factors as you know. I watched you I asked you minute by minuted details of your surgery, recovery etc. - I wanted to know what exactly I was in for, what was going to happen. How bad it was going to be. Diet Dr. Pepper is a common known name around here lol. You have been a common name for over a year now. :)
You have been a tremendous support system to me, and my family and I believe God sent you to me, and to everyone on here who has been lucky enought to be touched by you.
Your recovery was going so well, and I remember when it all turned around, and it sucked, we all felt let down for you.
Well we are here to hold your hand, meet you on the beach once again, these damn spines will not defeat us. Life will be better, this time they can fix the right problem and get it...I am glad they are going in the way they are not jus twith one idea. This way they can fix whatever is going on.
ITs like my h says sometimes architects are just eductated butholes. They draw up plans and expect them to work in the field. For example, ya know with surgeons oh your having this spytom so that has to be this disc lets just fuse that. This surgeon isn't doing that, he is going in and going to explore and fix whatever needs fixing.
When I have read about failed back syndrome it said alot of times it from where they fuse the wrong disc or whatever. So it seems like your doctor is going in with an open mind to look at the whole picture and structure.
I will be here every step of the way, I know you have a tremendous family support system. Your faith is Strong, your gonna make it. You will conquer this.
Say goodbye to the past pain, Today is the last day of this crap. Tomorrow is start of a new life, and the beginning of your healing and your future and all the things you've been missing out on..once you heal ofcourse lol.
Hugs buddy..love u. I will be praying for you and thinking of you all day.
I'll be waiting for your posts.
sammyo1
11-27-2007, 09:26 AM
pepper I will keep you in my prayers & will be thinking about you, sending all positive thoughts your way for a succesful surgery & speedy recovery. Good luck & god bless! Sammy
Moldova
11-27-2007, 02:47 PM
Just relax, girl... think positive, enjoy your family... WE all here will pray for you and you have to be there at 6:30 - just remember I will be thinking of you, I can't sleep anyway.
Good luck to you, dear heart. Let's just hope this will be your last surgery and the most sucessful one.
Best wishes to you and family. (((((()))))))):angel:
Good luck to you, dear heart. Let's just hope this will be your last surgery and the most sucessful one.
Best wishes to you and family. (((((()))))))):angel:
Round1
11-27-2007, 03:20 PM
Diet again, the best will be thinking of you tomorrow.
Round 1
Round 1
jinks66
11-27-2007, 04:56 PM
All the best DDP...
Looking forward to hearing from you very soon.
Big Hugs
Jinks:cool:
Looking forward to hearing from you very soon.
Big Hugs
Jinks:cool:
chatterboxsd
11-27-2007, 06:24 PM
:angel: (((((HUGS)))))) :angel:
I think the cyber hugs and prayers will be touching all in a circle around you tomorrow! I'm so hopeful and eager for this to be a wonderful solution for you!!!
My very best to you, your family and your surgeon!
- Margaret
I think the cyber hugs and prayers will be touching all in a circle around you tomorrow! I'm so hopeful and eager for this to be a wonderful solution for you!!!
My very best to you, your family and your surgeon!
- Margaret
123dietdrpepper
11-27-2007, 06:42 PM
Guys the nerves have hit big time. I AM SO NERVOUS AND SCARED. I could just boo hoo. Alot of good that would do.
Yvette has agreed to post a note tomorrow afternoon when I am out of surgery. I connected with her off board so my hubby will contact her.
Yvette has agreed to post a note tomorrow afternoon when I am out of surgery. I connected with her off board so my hubby will contact her.
Moldova
11-27-2007, 07:24 PM
My heart is with you...
hurtie0607
11-27-2007, 08:34 PM
Oh Pepper, you have been through so much. I pray that all will go well and you will be blessed with a pain free life. I will say a special healing prayer for you tonight. You are in the Lord's hands and He will see you through this. I send you angel hugs (((:angel:)))
Kay
Kay
camperboy
11-27-2007, 10:05 PM
Let's hope this does it for you! You've been such a help to all of us and now it's your turn for some good news to give us! I'll be thinking about you tomorrow when I'm walking - yes, walking - by Morro Bay.
-David
-David
123dietdrpepper
11-27-2007, 11:27 PM
Thank you so much for all your support....the tears are rolling down my cheeks. I feel so loved by my cyber friends. I am amazed how supportive you all are and want you to know you are much more supportive then my life long friends. Isn't it amazing how a chronic illness causes your friends to scatter?
When I shut my eyes tomorrow I will be thinking about my family and you. You are such an important part of my life and I could not get thru it all without you.
When I shut my eyes tomorrow I will be thinking about my family and you. You are such an important part of my life and I could not get thru it all without you.
Moldova
11-28-2007, 10:47 AM
Nothing I can say but cry reading your post, Diet.
You are so right: we all very lucky here to have each other. Will pray for you - good luck to you...:angel:
You are so right: we all very lucky here to have each other. Will pray for you - good luck to you...:angel:

