Upcoming 5 level ACDF surgery in Febuary

Its good to see you getting everything in order. People prepared well and educated about what to expect seem to do so much better post procedures than their clueless counterparts. I have come to learn through the years that how well you survive CP is two thirds of expectations. I can't believe they're still not treating your pain any better and its infuriating really to think its profound enough to do multiple level fusions but not profound enough that it causes you pain. I would have thought we had come further in the world of PM. I understand that building tolerance issues pre-op are not good for post op experiences but there are so many options these days to pain relief that at least some of the discomfort could be covered now and still have a good outcome post op pain management.

Keep us posted and hoping the time passes quickly for you.

Good for you! I'm glad to hear that you spoke up. Thanks for the updates!

Well...today is the day! We leave for the hospital at 0400 to check in at 0500, Surgery is at 0600. The team consists of two of the best neurosurgeons in the county and my PCP is sitting in. I can't believe it's finally happening!

Good news... my husband has decided it's time to retire he will do a trial run for a couple of months and stay home with me. Hope he has the patience of a saint! He has been very instrumental in helping me get the hospital bed and other necessities.

I can't thank you enough for the list of things needed for this long journey. I couldn't have done it without you and with such ease... I keep thinking I'm missing something. Checked and rechecked, it's all there!

I will be posting as soon as able; perhaps my journey may make it less worrisome for others. If one person benefits from my experiences, it is well worth it.

Thank you my friends, you've made a difference!

Healing prayers to all.

PinkyBlue

Prayers for a successful surgery and a strong recovery! I think it's wonderful that your husband will be there for you!

Pinky I hope your surgery went well today and you are on the road to a full and successful recovery! I will keep you in my prayers that everything goes well for you!

May God's Peace be with you and your Family!

White Beard

I want to thank you for your support. My surgery went very well and my recovery uneventful. I wear my Aspen collar 24/7 and utilize the bone stimulator 4 hours per day. When I overextend myself, my body lets me know it's time to slow down. I have a script for Oxycodone 20 mgs, with a daily limit of 100mg as needed. Fortunately, I really haven't needed them with the exception of a couple of times.
My husband took a couple of months off work to be my caretaker. He started having horrendous headaches my second day post op. and went to see his pcg. Many hurdles later and an ambulance ride that resulted in a wheel bearing going out, breaking the front axle and crashing in the rain, we finally made it to the hospital. I wasn't in the ambulance, my step daughter and I were following behind. CT scan showed a tumor in the cervical area. He was transferred to another hospital quickly and received a four level pcdf to relieve the impinged spinal cord and a cage built to support the rest of the neck. He coded in recovery and has been on a vent since surgery. Yesterday they put a trach in, a gt feeding tube and a central line. He had a biopsy of the clavicle bone, the cancer has spread to the bones. He plan was to retire in April and buy a motorhome and drive to Alaska in September (my health permitting); now we will adjust and be thankful for each day.
The information I received prior to my 4 level acdf was an absolute lifesaver. If I had not been prepared, both physically and mentally, I don't think I would have had the strength emotionally to complete the surgery. At my four week check up, the doc said I have the appearance of three months post op. My scar is a mere 3.5 inches, hidden in the contour of my neck. I feel so much better, a world of difference.
I kept a daily diary since surgery; if I can help even one person to alleviate fear, it will bring a smile to my
face.
Plans are to get Chris well enough to begin chemo and radiation asap. I am chanting fusion! fusion! for both of us in our matching Aspens (collar).
Many healing prayers to those in need. May your Guardian Angel be watching over you and loved ones.
Pinky Blue

Wow, what a surprise reading your post. I am just shocked at what has happened with your husband. I really don't know what to say other than you & your husband are in my prayers. Please keep us updated.

I am very glad to read that your surgery went well & you appear to be recuperating well. With everything you have going on please be sure to listen to your body & rest. Take care.

Thanks for keeping in touch. I think of you often....knowing something of what your recovery is like I just can't imagine having your husband now in this condition. I agree God has a plan and can use for His purposes even this! Your own "uneventful" recovery has to be a part of that plan. It must be so difficult to take proper care of yourself as you watch your husband. It sounds like he has very good care and even your surgeon stopping by is just great.

There will be lots of smiles at my house this evening as the children and their families come. I found in getting ready for this that reaching far back into a bottom cabinet is still something my neck lets me know I do not need to do.

Prayers continue for both of you.

I am so sorry to read about your husband. I am glad your surgery went well yet such a difficult situation to experience. Sending you all the positive healing and health vibes I can for you and yours.

Oh Pinky, I am so very sorry to read that you have lost your husband. You & your family have my deepest sympathies.

Although you were promised nursing care for Chris at home & that never happened for whatever reason, I have no doubt in my mind that you gave your man best care ever. Like you said, in your wildest dreams you never thought you could do such a thing without injuring both of you, there was a reason for you to be his care giver.

I do hope that you will continue to update us on how you are doing. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know. Sending healing thoughts & prayers your way.

Pinky Blue,

Thanks for taking the time to let us know so we can pray for you and share just a bit in your sorrow. How sweetly you worded your message. We certainly did not see this coming, but as you have said before, God has a plan. We don't have to understand it to trust it.

Thanks for the extra special prayers for us, we will also be praying for you and especially that you have not injured yourself while doing what you had to do. I'm proud to know you.

Abilene

Dear Abilene,
Thank you so much my friend; your kind words have made my day. It has been a busy one and you brought a smile to my face for the first time in many days.
I think my body is trying to tell me to slow down...I am having moderate discomfort so I guess I will try the pain medication. I was wondering when all my antics would catch up with me!
I know God has a plan for all of us; I'm trying to be patient and understanding. I am going to grief counseling tomorrow; it's a start.
Special prayers will be repeated tonight for all who experience pain and need extra care.