In the past few years some telltale signs began appearing. I was getting shorter (2"). My lower back ached daily, my balance was off. I had no idea it was the 'ol scoliosis again. I have spent the last few years working on "winning" over these maladies. I finally ended up at the Emory Spine Clinic and the xrays showed my spine increasing in its curvature. I now have an "S" shaped curve with 2 curves, each at 67 degrees. I has progressed about 2 degrees with each quarterly visit. The last visit in September determined that my spine was marching on collapsing on itself which would eventually lead to its collapsing on my lungs and heart. I had prayed that the decision for surgery would be simple. It was. There is no other way to stop what is happening.
How do I feel about this? At first I was in denial. I sought to do everything physical to avoid surgery. I spent time weekly with an excellent physical therapist who specializes in fragile backs. I have hired a personal Pilates trainer to strengthen my core muscles surrounding the spine. I swim 2x week. I work on cardio and other strength training at the gym 4x week. I lost weight. I gave it all I knew to do BUT it did not change what was happening. SO - the decision was made easy and I am at peace about having something so massive.
What do I mean by massive? The surgery is 12 hours and time in hospital looks to be 12 days. Recovery - long. I am told that to get back to "normal" is 12 months.
This blog is to give you a window into what our family has ahead. I do not want to waste this whole thing on just getting through but want to learn a lot of things through the process.
The blog is for people to post their words to us and for us to post our words of "where we are" along the way. Thank you for joining me on this unique journey.
...Cheryl
3 comments:
Hi Cheryl,
I think it's wonderful that Carissa set up this blog for you! It will help you stay in touch with many friends and family as you go through this life-changing journey. I want to share the ups and downs that the coming weeks will likely bring and do what I can to support you and encourage you.
You are such an example of taking good care of yourself. And it must be a comfort to know you've done all you could to prevent this surgery. Yet here you are. It's time to fix this problem that has dogged you since your teen years. Time to get BETTER! Time to STAND TALL!!
I love you!
Karen
I love you! Jo Ann
God is so good and will be to you because you have spent your life following His example. We will all learn a great deal about His mercy, grace and love.
I thank Him for our friendship and I know there are so many more who agree. Your compassion and love for His sheep is a living example to us today. Our prayers are that you will know His presence and peace at every turn in the road ahead...that you will learn more of Him and share that to those of us who are slower to follow.
Always remember you have an army of Prayers Warriors who are standing with you...and are willing to do everything we can to make your journey as comfortable as possible. We all love you, Paulette and Bob Lilley
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