Extrusion from one level to another!

[mmglobal]

Just after midnight Friday in Munich. Day 3 today. All is well. Leg symptoms still at bay, although Diane had some minor twinges this morning that went away as soon as we went for a walk. No reason to worry.... we expect some of this and hopefully, all this will just fade away and become fond memories.

It seems that Diane only has surgery pain now. She still moves slowly and when she forgets and takes a long step or moves too quickly, she gets a jab. It's getting better by the hour. She was only taking very low levels of meds. Now, she's on a few codeine/tyelenol a day and has been stretching them out to 8 or more hours.

Munich is wonderful. We have been taking several outings/day into the local area... meals out... fairly long walks.... outings that last an hour (or 2 if there is a meal involved.) Today we took a cab into Munich looking for her favorite beer garden and sausage stand. We didn't find it... we'll have to keep looking. We still had a blast... met some very interesting folks during lunch. The husband works for a company that makes lasers used in cutting metals... including spine implants. His family also owns a winery in Northern Germany (www.drloosen.com - wines available in the US). After lunch we spent some time in Hugendubel bookstore (www.hugendubel.de). It's 6 floors that all overlook Marienplatz and the Glockenspeil.... very cool view... coffee and cake on the top floor. It also has a fairly large English book section. We can't wait to read Zoey the German baby books that we bought.

I got to spend some time with Sam Perroni. It's great to see him again and he's looking better and better each day... now a week post-op. I hope to update his patient story soon.

Last night I had dinner with Zeegers at an outdoor cafe'. He waived a couple that I'd seen at the clinic and walking around the square many times. Talking to them at less than a week post-op from her 2-level active-L was very uplifting. It must be incredible for Zeegers to watch this happen over an over. We come to the AlphaKlinik afraid and desperate. He gets to see most of them leave in much better shape, and knowing that their lives will be much better. For many of us, it's not just better... it's returning from the living dead, back to life. It must be tough for him to watch the few failures, but the large numbers of successes must make it so incredibly rewarding for him.

Here are a few pics... more later...

Day 3... 3 hour outing to Munich


Day 2... farmer's market in Araballa Square


Day 2...

[dshobbies]

How great to see Diane up and around with little pain. I so hope she continues on this recovery road. My best to the both of you,

Dale

[JeffreyD]

Mark & Diane,
You are both in our thoughts and prayers as you move forward in these crucial post-op days.
Diane, may you be blessed with less pain each day. Munich is such a wonderful place to enjoy while you are healing and recovering. We truly hope that things go smoothly for you.

God Bless,
Jeff & Pauline

[LC in UK]

Well done Diane, wishing you an excellent recovery.
Glad you're enjoying Munich, was there a couple of years ago, the beer gardens are great aren't they?
Lynette

[Maria]

That smile on Diane's face is worth a million words! Great photos and glad to read that Diane's recovery is going so well, best wishes, thoughts and prayers that all continues on an upward spiral re recovery!

take good care you two, keep having a blast and thanks for the update! Maria

[Poncho]

Diane looks great! Like Maria said - the smile on her face says volumes!

Good to hear that you two are enjoying the sites and local festivities.

I hope Diane can come on board and post on her experiences soon.

Someday, I hope we can get back to visit Germany, Europe and other countries as tourists and not as patients.

Wishing for a speedy recovery.

Sue

[letteski]

Wow I am so sorry I have been out of the loop. Sending good thoughts your way for a speedy recovery Dian. We all know you are in the best of hands.

Mark I just thought this was just another trip but I was wrong. Lets catch up when things get a bit back to normal if that is posible.

[Eddie G]

Wow Mark I totally missed this thread. My thoughts & prayers are with you both.
She is fortunate to be in such capable hands both here and across the pond...

Geeze Mark I didn't think back pain was contagious!

I hope you both feel better.

[Justin]

Diane,

I just wanted to wish you well in your recovery. The key to a quick recovery is great German beer.

[ans]

Diane looks great. Never knew anyone could have such a broad smile so soon after back surgery. Enjoy..