WOW! What a small world it is...most people from ohio don't know where my town is!!
I was lucky to have been diagnosed in CT within a few days of being admitted to the hospital...it was April Fools Day, too. I think misdiagnosis are more common. My surgeon at CC was Dr. Strong until this last one. He went on to the new CC facility in Abu Dhabi last year as the Chief of Staff. He had gotten me through all the difficult times and like you said, "saved my life", in my opinion. Dr. Dietz did my last surgery and I am just as happy. It is hard to put your life in someone's hands, but I have to say, I have been extremely happy with my care at CC.
It is so funny that you went to Stark State, too!! I currently attend (although I took this semester off for surgery). You wouldn't recognize it...they are building again and it has changed so much since I've been attending.
I am finally getting some strength back. I really thought I'd be doing better than this by now, but everyone tells me that for the surgery I had, I am doing better than average. I am also lucky to work for my husband from home. I sit in my chair (with the laptop) and can do everything I need to. I wasn't as lucky with past surgeries, so I thank him for hiring me!!
Happy Birthday!!! What a day to celebrate...it must feel like it is all for you!
I will try to make the chats, they sound fun.
Anne