[Justin]

Hey Kathy,

Your incision sounds perfectly normal. BTW, I've read a lot of your posts lately and I have to say you are a prolific writer. I'm either laughing or thinking how you got in my brain and stole my exact thoughts on situations.

Anyway, I am so glad that you are on the other side of surgery. You struggled for too long with unnecessary bumps in the road. I'm still pinching myself that you are actually on the other side. There was so much anticipation for a solution in your situation and it really came out of nowhere. God is good!

I agree with Phylly: make sure to really keep an eye on your bending / twisting during the first 8 weeks (I would even say 10 weeks). Even if you are feeling better, make sure to "baby" your spine. This time of healing is absolutely crucial. Avoid tying your own shoes for as long as possible, as this puts an incredible amount of stress on your spine and this type of bending should be avoided post-op.

It is good that you are being realistic about your meds. The key is to be honest with your PM doctor about your pain and they should respect what is going on.

How is your husband doing through all of this? I bet he is relieved that you are now on the other side of things. My wife has been such a trooper over the last year, but, of course, it has been really hard for her (us) at times. She knows me better than I know myself...however, I was so blessed to find forums like this one before my ADR surgery. Like you, I always thought forums were for the "weirdos" in the world of the Internet. These forums and the people I have met through them, some which have become dear friends, have helped me in so many ways that even our significant others can't.

It sounds like your whole "going through hell and having surgery" has changed your outlook on life. It did the exact same thing to me and it really fine-tuned what I found important in life and helped solidify my career goals as well.

God bless you in your recovery, and if you need anything--don't hesitate to PM / email me.