PITA

Appreciate the wishes and recommendations.

I've had trouble in my three lower cervical vertebrae and lower 2 lumbars for many years. Early spinal deterioration is a long standing hereditary blessing passed down from my paternal grandmother. Have had several MRI's and done everyting possible to stay away from the knife. Almost everyone in the family line below her has had issues, many of which have led to surgery. I have had buldges or ruptures in 8 different discs, and serious calcium build-up, but they've been manageable until now. July 30th I blew a disc at C5-6, and blew it pretty good too. Nothing helped over 9 weeks, got an epidural 2 weeks ago, and have been tolerable ie: the shooting pain is controlled and strength is enough to keep me from dropping things I think I have solid grasp of. But looks like avoiding surgery is not going to be an option. Dealing with a Dr. that likes surgery as a last option ONLY, and he's saying "It's a quality of life issue, Mike, and I think this one has run it's course, the time has come."

I knew the day was coming... I just hope when it's done, I say "dang, why didn't I do this 5 years ago?

That was my exact words after I had my knees replaced. You just don[t know how much the pain affects everything until it is gone! Good luck with that. Praying for you.

Much appreciated John