[dshobbies]

Diane,

To tell you how much we all understand your plight is an understatment. We don't have to walk a mile in your shoes, a single foot will do. Knowing that Mark is at your side must be comforting at this very confusing time in your life. The knowledge of spinal maladies and corrective surgeries or other measures are finally coming of age but are not quite there yet.

Unless your condtion or symptoms worsen you may find yourself on that Maria fence. My advise would be to stay there as long as necessary. Only you can decide when or if the time to move forward is right. Any spinal surgery alters your spine forever and though we all hope for the best, the sad truth is that it's not always achieved. However, again with Mark at your side, you will always know that you're in the best hands possible.

I hope your condition stabalizes enough that you can put off any more surgeries indefinitely, grandchildren notwithstanding. They were a huge part of my surgical decision.

All my best, Dale