2 questions

[Guest guest]

I believe that is social security insurance.. ( disability in Canada.. )

-- Re: ( ) 2 Questions

What's SSI?

Tami Ober <nyx@...> wrote: I'm sorry, I am not sure... we are

at like under 10k a year for income, no child support...

( ) 2 Questions

Does anyone get SSI for their child with Asperger's? I heard that

it's possible. How about Respite?

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Bee & group,

Hi Marla.

>

> I have 2 hopefully quick questions...

>

> 1 - I was taking Primal Defense daily for about a year already

before doing this diet. Should I stop or continue to take them? At

this point, I'm not doing antifungals, having just recently started

the diet.

If you are doing okay on Primal Defense you can continue, but I

believe there are less expensive " tried & true " probiotics that are

not as complex and thus create less side effects than this product.

The reason it is so expensive is because of high marketing costs.

There are many good probiotic products that are much cheaper price

and they are very good, without all of the extras which I believe are

unnecessary. The best probiotic is cabbage rejuvelac - see our

Recipe Folder, under lacto-fermented. When I cured my candida in the

mid 1980s I took a simple powdered probiotic but they've changed the

formulas since then.

>

> 2 - If you have done a coffee enema, do you get a caffeine kick?

Meaning - should I limit this to the morning? I haven't had

caffeine in I don't know how long.

Marla, this is from the Enema Folder, Coffee Enemas for Liver and

Adrenal Detoxification. " The effects of having a coffee enema are

not the same as drinking coffee. The veins of the anus are very close

to the surface of the tissue. The caffeine is therefore absorbed more

quickly (and in higher concentration) than it is in when coffee is

drunk.

Additionally, coffee has a chemical makeup that is stimulative. The

enzymes in coffee, known as palmitates, help the liver carry away the

toxins in bile acid. The coffee is absorbed into the hemorrhoidal

vein (in the anus), and then it is taken up to the liver by the

portal vein. With the bile ducts dilated, bile carries toxins away to

the gastro-intestinal tract. Simultaneously, peristaltic activity

(movement of the bowel) is encouraged because of the flooding of the

lower colon. Thus, when the colon is evacuated, the toxins and bile

are carried out of the body.

The caffeine from the coffee is absorbed into this circulatory system

and goes directly to the liver where it acts as a very strong

detoxifier. It decongests the liver, and causes it to dump its

toxins. It causes the liver to produce more bile (which contains

processed toxins) and stimulates the gall bladder to dump its

contents which flows directly into the small intestine for

elimination. This frees up the liver, enabling it to process toxins

more efficiently, particularly candida toxins and those caused by

killing off candida. The coffee only goes to the liver, and does not

circulate throughout the body so it does not act like drinking

caffeine would.

Caffeine also stimulates an enzyme used by the liver to make its

detoxification pathways run. This enzyme is used to form glutathione

(an amino acid), which is one of the main components that enable

toxins to be eliminated via the bile into the small intestine.

Therefore a coffee enema speeds up detoxification and minimizes the

backlog of detoxified substances. "

Bee

[Guest guest]

Dear Peggy,

Truth telling now, I was 43 when I had my last revision, 42 at the first, and if I had a diagnosis ten years earlier I would have had it done then. I'm better now at 47( 4 years post-op now), than I was in my mid twenties. I had years of a downhill slide, doc's just didn't know what was wrong me, and once I got diagnosised and I knew it had a name and a fix I wanted it done yesterday. I would say the early to mid forties is when the majority of us have this surgery done. As we age our bone quality goes downhill, best to have this done when you have optimum bone quality, tons of bone work in this surgery and you have to have good bone for all the hardware to go into.

Flexability, varies, depending on the amount of fusions, hardware, and it's placement. I no longer bend. I have a slight forward leaning ability, not much. My torso feels like one piece ( fused T-1 to the sacrum). I no longer twist my torso. I can lean side to side, but the torso goes as one piece. While not bending sucks, I get around it by either getting to my knees, or using grabbers. Getting to my toes to cut nails is still difficult, better than early on, but not great. I shave my legs with a razor taped to a paint stick, or put my foot up on the toilet, and I mostly can get to most parts. I have been this way for five years now and have adjusted to it, and really don't think about bending anymore.

While flexabilty changes, the lost of it is replaced by the ability to live my life without pain. I can walk as far as I like, I can stand for as long as needed. I was MUCH more disabled before the surgery than I am now. I would never trade the pain for the ability to bend. I'm able to stand up straight and tall( gained 2 and 1/2 inches).I feel lucky, I do everything I want to do, except run and snow ski, and I didn't do that before anyway. I garden, do yard work, push shovel snow, take care of my not so light granddaughter( 2 yrs almost). I keep my home, run two very busy teens, more than I could have ever hoped for going into surgery. My greatest blessing is to have the pain gone, so freeing! So I can't bend and pick-up the kids clunky shoes on the floor, oh well. Small price to pay for all I got!

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

: Well stated!! I hope I feel the same way after I'm done with

all of my surgeries in the next few weeks.(and months to heal) I've

been in so much pain the past few days that the loss of flexibility

seems like a small price to pay for the loss or reduction of pain.

I'm ready for the surgery!!!!

(PS--I'm 49 and if I would have known what was wrong with me 10 yrs

ago I probably would have done it then!!!)

Carol V.

>

> Dear Peggy,

>

> Truth telling now, I was 43 when I had my last revision, 42 at the

first, and if I had a diagnosis ten years earlier I would have had it

done then. I'm better now at 47( 4 years post-op now), than I was in

my mid twenties. I had years of a downhill slide, doc's just didn't

know what was wrong me, and once I got diagnosised and I knew it had

a name and a fix I wanted it done yesterday. I would say the early to

mid forties is when the majority of us have this surgery done. As we

age our bone quality goes downhill, best to have this done when you

have optimum bone quality, tons of bone work in this surgery and you

have to have good bone for all the hardware to go into.

>

> Flexability, varies, depending on the amount of fusions, hardware,

and it's placement. I no longer bend. I have a slight forward leaning

ability, not much. My torso feels like one piece ( fused T-1 to the

sacrum). I no longer twist my torso. I can lean side to side, but the

torso goes as one piece. While not bending sucks, I get around it by

either getting to my knees, or using grabbers. Getting to my toes to

cut nails is still difficult, better than early on, but not great. I

shave my legs with a razor taped to a paint stick, or put my foot up

on the toilet, and I mostly can get to most parts. I have been this

way for five years now and have adjusted to it, and really don't

think about bending anymore.

>

> While flexabilty changes, the lost of it is replaced by the ability

to live my life without pain. I can walk as far as I like, I can

stand for as long as needed. I was MUCH more disabled before the

surgery than I am now. I would never trade the pain for the ability

to bend. I'm able to stand up straight and tall( gained 2 and 1/2

inches).I feel lucky, I do everything I want to do, except run and

snow ski, and I didn't do that before anyway. I garden, do yard work,

push shovel snow, take care of my not so light granddaughter( 2 yrs

almost). I keep my home, run two very busy teens, more than I could

have ever hoped for going into surgery. My greatest blessing is to

have the pain gone, so freeing! So I can't bend and pick-up the kids

clunky shoes on the floor, oh well. Small price to pay for all I got!

>

>

> [ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

>

>

> Peggy,

>

> I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery

proposed for

> you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been

undergoing

> here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only

approach...but

> most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure

which, as

> I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when

they go

> all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who

has

> undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some

or all

> of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!

>

> Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are

well

> advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have

picked

> your doctor/hospital with care.

>

> I know you are hoping that working from home improves your

pain

> level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might

be able

> to get to a more supported situation with your family before

you move

> ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your

date on

> the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do

this

> surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)

>

> Take Care, Cam

>

[Guest guest]

Not bending is a concern. I am afraid of water. I use a handheld shower and bend over in the shower to wash my hair. I cannot stand to have water running down my face therefore I never stand under a showerhead to wash my hair. Any suggestions on how I will wash my hair? Will I be able to bend at my hip joints?

Peggy

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

I'm contemplating revision surgery and I'm only 30, so I don't think

you're too young at all to be having the surgery. Did your doctor

give any ideas as to why he thinks 44 is too young? If your DDD is

severe and is causing you pain, my personal opinion is why should

you waste 6 years of your life living like that if there's a good

possibility of fixing it now and enjoying your new lease on life?

That's just my opinion though, and I don't know any of your other

medical or personal reasons for waiting versus having surgery now.

Good luck with everything

>

> More questions to those that have had revision surgery.

>

> I am currently fused from T4 - L4 and have very severe DDD in L4/5

and L5/S1. How much more flexibility will I lose? And I don't mean

immediately after surgery but once I have healed. Will it will a

slight difference or a noticeable difference?

>

> My doctors biggest concern seemed to be that I was " too young " for

surgery. I am 44. He said it wouldn't make that much difference

physically to wait until I am 50. However, it might make a big

difference to us financially. Right now I have insurance, at 50 I

may not. Do you think 44 is too young for revision surgery?

>

> Peggy

>

>

> [ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

>

>

> Peggy,

>

> I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery

proposed for

> you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been

undergoing

> here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only

approach...but

> most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure

which, as

> I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when

they go

> all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has

> undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some

or all

> of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!

>

> Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are

well

> advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have

picked

> your doctor/hospital with care.

>

> I know you are hoping that working from home improves your

pain

> level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might

be able

> to get to a more supported situation with your family before

you move

> ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your

date on

> the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do

this

> surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)

>

> Take Care, Cam

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Peggy,

Okay, bending at the hips, for me is a forward lean, and I can't go too far forward, but many here can go more forward in their lean than me. The way to invision it is that you won't be able to round your back for a forward bend. I just look at the majority of my spine as being one big solid piece, that moves that way, as a solid piece. Just how much of a forward lean you will have, I can't tell you. After surgery you will be totally upright while you are healing. You will have to adapt. If you can't stand water running on your face, I suggest a towel over your face, and wash your hair with the hand not holding the towel. The key to all of this is being able to adapt, you will find as you go along in your recovery that you will find coping skills, and all of this isn't too bad. I think you are concentrating on the drawbacks, and yes there are some, but overall the gifts this surgery gives far outweigh the drawbacks. Just hold in your mind the picture of yourself being without the majority of your pain, or painfree, being able to walk as far as you'd like, standing tall and straight for as long as you'd like. After having all that the other stuff is a blip in time, and sure in a perfect world there wouldn't be any drawbacks, alas this isn't a perfect world. Just look to others with far more disabilites than us, and they get up each day grateful for the day they have ahead of them and go on, so we can too. Not bending the old fashion way sucks, but I get around it with tools, and overall it isn't as bad as I thought it would be before surgery. None of this is as bad as the pain, and I wouldn't trade it for the pain.

---- Original Message -----

From: Peggy Greene

Sent: Saturday, March 03, 2007 9:45 PM

Subject: Re: [ ] 2 questions

Not bending is a concern. I am afraid of water. I use a handheld shower and bend over in the shower to wash my hair. I cannot stand to have water running down my face therefore I never stand under a showerhead to wash my hair. Any suggestions on how I will wash my hair? Will I be able to bend at my hip joints?

Peggy

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

I think has given a good explanation of what you will lose in

flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture will

come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move forward as

one " unit " . Over time, as you become stronger and your fusion becomes

more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch again....you

will find most of your abilities return or are compensated in some

way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was a " no

brainer " for me....but I think it really is a case of knowing in your

heart that you are " there " . If, for you, the pain/gain ratios are not

there...then you will know it.

The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time for fusion

surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be undertaken later

into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude that the

chances of better outcome and less complications goes to those on

the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at least,

have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having good strong

bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes. So while

you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think if

surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye on all

the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of consequence

would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going to lose it

and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and

hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an expensive

surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser insurance

would probably equate to more financial and emotional stress. Not how

you want to undergo recovery.

As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will probably

put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use your hand

held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be able to tip

your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is how

I " showered " the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and awkward

at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a reason to

not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are in a lot

of pain.

And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to struggle with

our own perception of what our chances are for a better quality of

life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No one can

answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you may not

be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of 47) and

had had the same pain levels I would have had the surgery...no

question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so that I

could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty to easily

tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!

Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Peggy--

I realize that it could happen any way, but I wash my hair in the

shower with my back to the showerhead, and I don't think any (if at

all)water goes down my face. I watch my husband do it the other way,

and I can't stand it that way!!

(PS-- and I'm NOT afraid of water)

Carol V. (CA)

>

> Not bending is a concern. I am afraid of water. I use a handheld

shower and bend over in the shower to wash my hair. I cannot stand

to have water running down my face therefore I never stand under a

showerhead to wash my hair. Any suggestions on how I will wash my

hair? Will I be able to bend at my hip joints?

>

> Peggy

>

>

> [ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

>

>

> Peggy,

>

> I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery

proposed for

> you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been

undergoing

> here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only

approach...but

> most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure

which, as

> I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary

when they go

> all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who

has

> undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had

some or all

> of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!

>

> Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are

well

> advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have

picked

> your doctor/hospital with care.

>

> I know you are hoping that working from home improves your

pain

> level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you

might be able

> to get to a more supported situation with your family

before you move

> ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put

your date on

> the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do

this

> surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)

>

> Take Care, Cam

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Peggy,

I agree with everything said. I am quite surprised that your surgeon prefers that you wait till you're 50 to have this surgery. Good grief, I cannot imagine waiting, in so much pain, for that many years! I don't believe ever hearing any other surgeon having that reservation. In fact, because this surgery is so difficult on the patient and bone quality is so important, it would seem that outcomes would be better in younger patients. Does your doctor do very many revision surgeries on patients who have a Harrington Rod and a long fusion?

Bonnie

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

,

Very well said, as usual.

Bonnie

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Pain is the motivating factor. Before I started working I took 1 Percocet less than 1x/week and only when I overdid it. Once I started working I had to start taking pain killers and now I am at the point that I take 1 Tramadol, 1 Neurontin, 1 Skelaxin, and 2 Vicodin 3x/day as well as Relafen 2x/day. It just isn't worth taking all this medication to be able to function which is why I have quit working at the doctor's office. It's not worth still being in pain while taking all those meds. I have also 3 sets of epidural steroid injections which were extremely painful but did help reduce the pain tremendously. If I had not had the ESI, I definitely would have had to quit awhile back so I could take narcotics.

Last night my eldest daughter said she didn't want to come this summer to take care of me. It is her last summer before college and I know I am infringing on her plans. However, family responsibilities come first and she will just have to put her wishes aside, besides that, I'm the one that took her to visit the university, I'm the one that will take her there this fall, and I'm the one paying the majority of the bill! I told her father to make it clear to her that she is needed here or I will take it to court because she is under 18 and visitation makes it clear that she is supposed to spend the summers with me and I let her spend last summer with her father and didn't see her at all.

Peggy

[ ] Re: 2 questions

Peggy,I think has given a good explanation of what you will lose in flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture will come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move forward as one "unit". Over time, as you become stronger and your fusion becomes more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch again....you will find most of your abilities return or are compensated in some way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was a "no brainer" for me....but I think it really is a case of knowing in your heart that you are "there". If, for you, the pain/gain ratios are not there...then you will know it.The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time for fusion surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be undertaken later into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude that the chances of better outcome and less complications goes to those on the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at least, have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having good strong bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes. So while you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think if surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye on all the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of consequence would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going to lose it and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an expensive surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser insurance would probably equate to more financial and emotional stress. Not how you want to undergo recovery.As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will probably put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use your hand held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be able to tip your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is how I "showered" the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and awkward at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a reason to not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are in a lot of pain.And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to struggle with our own perception of what our chances are for a better quality of life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No one can answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you may not be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of 47) and had had the same pain levels I would have had the surgery...no question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so that I could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty to easily tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

I'm 31 and just had revision surgery - I was fused T4-L4 before, now I'm fused

through L5 (not to the sacrum). Although I still have the area btw L5 and S1

free, it really doesn't move much at all. I find I've just naturally bend at

the hips and legs. I had severe pain before the revision - to the point that

the post-surgery pain (after the initial 2 weeks) was so much more bearable. I

don't quite twist like I did, but that's also due to muscle stiffness. I find

the difference minimal. The only reason they didn't go to the sacrum at this

point was b/c L5 was still okay (as opposed to L4), and with my age, they felt I

could still get another 15 years or so before I need L5 fused, but really, there

wasn't much movement there during my last check-up anyways.

Cena

________________________________

>

> From: rebeccamaas@...

> Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2007 04:55:56 +0000

> Subject: [ ] Re: 2 questions

>

> Peggy,

> I'm contemplating revision surgery and I'm only 30, so I don't think

> you're too young at all to be having the surgery. Did your doctor

> give any ideas as to why he thinks 44 is too young? If your DDD is

> severe and is causing you pain, my personal opinion is why should

> you waste 6 years of your life living like that if there's a good

> possibility of fixing it now and enjoying your new lease on life?

> That's just my opinion though, and I don't know any of your other

> medical or personal reasons for waiting versus having surgery now.

> Good luck with everything

>

>

> >

> > More questions to those that have had revision surgery.

> >

> > I am currently fused from T4 - L4 and have very severe DDD in L4/5

> and L5/S1. How much more flexibility will I lose? And I don't mean

> immediately after surgery but once I have healed. Will it will a

> slight difference or a noticeable difference?

> >

> > My doctors biggest concern seemed to be that I was " too young " for

> surgery. I am 44. He said it wouldn't make that much difference

> physically to wait until I am 50. However, it might make a big

> difference to us financially. Right now I have insurance, at 50 I

> may not. Do you think 44 is too young for revision surgery?

> >

> > Peggy

> >

> >

> > [ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

> >

> >

> > Peggy,

> >

> > I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery

> proposed for

> > you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been

> undergoing

> > here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only

> approach...but

> > most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure

> which, as

> > I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when

> they go

> > all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has

> > undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some

> or all

> > of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!

> >

> > Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are

> well

> > advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have

> picked

> > your doctor/hospital with care.

> >

> > I know you are hoping that working from home improves your

> pain

> > level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might

> be able

> > to get to a more supported situation with your family before

> you move

> > ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your

> date on

> > the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do

> this

> > surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)

> >

> > Take Care, Cam

> >

>

_________________________________________________________________

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[Guest guest]

Peggy, in the shower for the first while after surgery, I sat on a shower seat,

and (my Mom and hubbie helped) I leaned forward from the hips to rinse my hair.

You could tilt your head back at the neck to if you leaned back on the back of

the seat. I have a handheld shower nozzle that I eventually was able to do

myself.

Cena

________________________________

>

> From: jpgunlimited@...

> Date: Sat, 3 Mar 2007 23:45:11 -0500

> Subject: Re: [ ] 2 questions

>

> Not bending is a concern. I am afraid of water. I use a handheld shower and

bend over in the shower to wash my hair. I cannot stand to have water running

down my face therefore I never stand under a showerhead to wash my hair. Any

suggestions on how I will wash my hair? Will I be able to bend at my hip

joints?

> Peggy

> [ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

> Peggy,

> I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for

> you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing

> here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but

> most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as

> I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go

> all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has

> undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all

> of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!

> Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well

> advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked

> your doctor/hospital with care.

> I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain

> level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able

> to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move

> ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on

> the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this

> surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)

> Take Care, Cam

>

_________________________________________________________________

News, entertainment and everything you care about at Live.com. Get it now!

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[Guest guest]

Dear Peggy,

Do you have other children at home? I'm not sure but isn't there a husband too?

My oldest daughter was that same age when I had my surgery, but she was at home with me, and volunteered to help out. This age is a tough one, kids now days expect so much out of their senior year and the summer after that they can get a little self assorbed. How is your ex, is he supportive? She might just be voicing things she hears from him. You all need to sit down and talk it out, at most you would only need her home for about 4to 6 weeks, maybe you could set that up in a way that she still has time before college to do a trip or whatever with her friends. This thing is doable, parties just have to talk it out. How is your relationship with her?

I'm sorry that things are so tough all around, workign so many jobs and these family conflicts don't help and all the stress surely adds to your pain issues. I hope someone that has gone through a divorce can chime in with suggestions, this sounds like a tricky situation, but my thought is if you go to court over it, only bad feeling can come of it, and who would want an upset angry teen caring for them, not me, they are hard on a good day.

[ ] Re: 2 questions

Peggy,I think has given a good explanation of what you will lose in flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture will come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move forward as one "unit". Over time, as you become stronger and your fusion becomes more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch again....you will find most of your abilities return or are compensated in some way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was a "no brainer" for me....but I think it really is a case of knowing in your heart that you are "there". If, for you, the pain/gain ratios are not there...then you will know it.The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time for fusion surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be undertaken later into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude that the chances of better outcome and less complications goes to those on the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at least, have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having good strong bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes. So while you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think if surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye on all the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of consequence would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going to lose it and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an expensive surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser insurance would probably equate to more financial and emotional stress. Not how you want to undergo recovery.As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will probably put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use your hand held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be able to tip your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is how I "showered" the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and awkward at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a reason to not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are in a lot of pain.And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to struggle with our own perception of what our chances are for a better quality of life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No one can answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you may not be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of 47) and had had the same pain levels I would have had the surgery...no question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so that I could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty to easily tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

That could be another problem. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis at age 33 and I've been on Fosamax for 11 years now. I have it in my spine and hips. Right now my scores put me in the osteopenia range but I've heard that the new bone is actually chalky and not like "real" bone.

Peggy

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

My children live with their father in another state. My husband works in nuclear power plants out of state. If he comes home to be with me it means we have no income because he won't be working and I won't be able to run my corporation as my daughter is not coming to do the work. Since I do medical transcription at home, any ideas how soon I might be able to sit at my computer and try to type for 5-10 minutes at a time?

Peggy

[ ] Re: 2 questions

Peggy,I think has given a good explanation of what you will lose in flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture will come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move forward as one "unit". Over time, as you become stronger and your fusion becomes more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch again....you will find most of your abilities return or are compensated in some way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was a "no brainer" for me....but I think it really is a case of knowing in your heart that you are "there". If, for you, the pain/gain ratios are not there...then you will know it.The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time for fusion surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be undertaken later into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude that the chances of better outcome and less complications goes to those on the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at least, have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having good strong bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes. So while you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think if surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye on all the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of consequence would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going to lose it and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an expensive surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser insurance would probably equate to more financial and emotional stress. Not how you want to undergo recovery.As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will probably put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use your hand held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be able to tip your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is how I "showered" the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and awkward at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a reason to not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are in a lot of pain.And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to struggle with our own perception of what our chances are for a better quality of life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No one can answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you may not be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of 47) and had had the same pain levels I would have had the surgery...no question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so that I could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty to easily tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

Dear Peggy,

Typing with clarity I think would take some time. Some have posted here fairly soon after surgery( like week two) I don't know how they do that, at that point I was still very drugged up, and my adventure for the day was going to the bathroom and taking a shower. You know there are always people who are very motivated and will do stuff earlier than most, but I was only allowed to sit for thirty minutes at a time till my three week post-op visit. I would say that at the one month mark you should be able to sit for spells at the computer. This is only a rough estimate since all of us heal differently, and that is too if you get through surgery and partial recovery without any setbacks or complications.

I can't imagine the pressure you are under, you have your fingers plugging so many holes in the dam, does it all have to fall to you? Is there siblings, parents, good friends, church, any support system out there? I understand your husbands working situation, but I'm hoping you have someone else to fall back on beside a teenage daughter. Kinda like you are damned if you do, and damned if you don't. Surgery you need to get better, or stay the same and risk getting worse daily till you can't juggle things anymore. I'm hoping there are others to reach out to, and that your daughter will come around and help too.

[ ] Re: 2 questions

Peggy,I think has given a good explanation of what you will lose in flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture will come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move forward as one "unit". Over time, as you become stronger and your fusion becomes more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch again....you will find most of your abilities return or are compensated in some way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was a "no brainer" for me....but I think it really is a case of knowing in your heart that you are "there". If, for you, the pain/gain ratios are not there...then you will know it.The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time for fusion surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be undertaken later into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude that the chances of better outcome and less complications goes to those on the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at least, have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having good strong bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes. So while you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think if surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye on all the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of consequence would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going to lose it and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an expensive surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser insurance would probably equate to more financial and emotional stress. Not how you want to undergo recovery.As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will probably put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use your hand held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be able to tip your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is how I "showered" the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and awkward at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a reason to not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are in a lot of pain.And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to struggle with our own perception of what our chances are for a better quality of life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No one can answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you may not be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of 47) and had had the same pain levels I would have had the surgery...no question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so that I could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty to easily tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!Take Care, Cam

[Guest guest]

---Peggy,

I know how difficult it is to have the revision surgery and have

school age children at home. I had my surgery last year and I had a

senior in high school. I chose to have the surgery before he went

off to college because I needed his help. I have 4 children, 2 with

special needs and one that plays every sport in the world, so she

needed transportation to and from sporting practices and games. I

had to rely on my oldest son for all of those things. While I was in

Boston having the surgery he had to be home everday after school to

get the younger children off the bus and stay with them until my

husband came home from work. He then had to pick my daughter up

everyday from games and practices. He had to give up his parttime

job to now work for us for no pay..ok, we did give him something but

it is different then working. It was a stressful time for all of us

but everbody sucked it up and we all came out smiling. I think my

older kids realized at the end of the day how much I do each day...I

think it was a good life lesson for all involved. I know it is hard

and there will be really tough times but it will work out...,PA

In , " Peggy Greene "

<jpgunlimited@...> wrote:

>

> My children live with their father in another state. My husband

works in nuclear power plants out of state. If he comes home to be

with me it means we have no income because he won't be working and I

won't be able to run my corporation as my daughter is not coming to

do the work. Since I do medical transcription at home, any ideas

how soon I might be able to sit at my computer and try to type for 5-

10 minutes at a time?

>

> Peggy

>

> [ ] Re: 2 questions

>

>

> Peggy,

>

> I think has given a good explanation of what you will

lose in

> flexibility. After fusion to the sacrum, any forward posture

will

> come from your hip joint and your whole torso will move

forward as

> one " unit " . Over time, as you become stronger and your

fusion becomes

> more solid and all your muscles and ligaments stretch

again....you

> will find most of your abilities return or are compensated

in some

> way. The trade off of pain for decreased flexibility was

a " no

> brainer " for me....but I think it really is a case of

knowing in your

> heart that you are " there " . If, for you, the pain/gain

ratios are not

> there...then you will know it.

>

> The discussion by your doctor of your age vs. optimal time

for fusion

> surprises me a little. Yes, this huge surgery can be

undertaken later

> into the 50's or 60's...but the evidence seems to conclude

that the

> chances of better outcome and less complications goes to

those on

> the younger side of 50. Also, much past menopause, women at

least,

> have to deal with laying down new bone as well as having

good strong

> bone on hand for the implants. Over the years that changes.

So while

> you do not have an immediate need for a decision....I think

if

> surgery is inevitable for you, then should be keeping an eye

on all

> the factors that weigh in for you. The last factor of

consequence

> would surely be insurance. If you sense that you are going

to lose it

> and you will have lesser coverage and choice in surgeons and

> hospitals...I would definitely consider it. It is an

expensive

> surgery and for awhile you will not be working, so lesser

insurance

> would probably equate to more financial and emotional

stress. Not how

> you want to undergo recovery.

>

> As to washing your hair...no matter what, I assume you will

probably

> put a shower stool in your tub and sit and continue to use

your hand

> held shower head to wash your body and hair. You will be

able to tip

> your head back and keep the water out of your eyes. This is

how

> I " showered " the first few weeks home. It will be tiring and

awkward

> at first....but you will adapt. I don't think it would be a

reason to

> not consider surgery or give up all your mobility if you are

in a lot

> of pain.

>

> And that is the question, isn't it? Each of us has to

struggle with

> our own perception of what our chances are for a better

quality of

> life vs. the risks of surgery and the longish recovery. No

one can

> answer that but you. If pain is not motivating you now, you

may not

> be ready to make the next step. If I had been 44 (instead of

47) and

> had had the same pain levels I would have had the

surgery...no

> question the lack of flexibility was not much to give up so

that I

> could enjoy my life again. What did I lose? The flexibilty

to easily

> tie my shoes. Big deal! Really!

>

> Take Care, Cam

>

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

I was 47 at revision. I decided on it for the same reason you did.

NOW I have insurance, NOW I have my health. I thought waiting

would be in error, who knows what condition my life would be in

the future.

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

I dealt with that problem by cutting my hair to 1 inch.

I could wash it with a wash cloth until well into my

4th month. Drastic huh? When I had the first surgery

I was 15 and my hair was down to my rear. It was a

nightmare. So, I decided I would cut it all off. It is back

down to my neck.

[Guest guest]

--- Val,

I also had spasms in my legs while healing. I was not sure why it

happened..I thought maybe I was defficient in some vitamin or

something..interesting to hear you had spasms too!!!I wonder why that

happens?/ Anyone know? ,PA

In , <vclark@...> wrote:

>

> Peggy,

> I dealt with that problem by cutting my hair to 1 inch.

> I could wash it with a wash cloth until well into my

> 4th month. Drastic huh? When I had the first surgery

> I was 15 and my hair was down to my rear. It was a

> nightmare. So, I decided I would cut it all off. It is back

> down to my neck.

>

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi all

> This is my first time emailing, I have been on Bee's diet now 4

> weeks today and just so impressed with how my body is enjoying this

> diet. I have noticed my skin and hair is softer, no brain fog

> (yippee!), no bruising (haven't had a bruise for 4 weeks), not

> feeling the cold as much and finally have been told last night I

had warm hands on a cool evening. AMAZING! that would be a first

> ever. I now have fingernails another big plus! This is just

> amazing. The list just grows and I shan't bore everyone with this

as you guys are the converted. Soooo looking forward to improved

> memory!

==>Hi . Welcome to our group. I'm impressed by your progress.

Way to go girl!

>

> I do have a couple of queries:

> I must admit I feel a bit strange especailly reading others

> responses but I have had no cravings at all. Is this unusual or

> will the craving monster get me in the end?

==>Some people do not have cravings. They are the lucky ones!

>

> Secondly, I have purchased over the internet 1 bottle each of

Garden of Life Castor Oil and Coconut Oil (somewhere in my readings

and the brain can't remember where I have read to buy this particular

brand) cost me just about an arm and leg - $80AUS this including

postage. My question is, can some other Aussie out there help me

where to buy these products in Australia at a cheaper price? Plus

it is the time factor as well, I am anxious to start eating this GOOD

oil. Please help me.

==>, I suggest you post another message with Australia in the

subject line to get other Aussies' attention.

>

> Many thanks and really enjoying the chat between all as it is quite

> informative.

You are very welcome ! Keep up the good work.

Luv, Bee

[Guest guest]

> we have just started enzymes and are at the 2 1/2 week mark.

> He was initially a little wild but seems to be better The No phenol

> seems to be the culprit with that.Does anyone else experience that?

Some kids need just a sprinkle of No-Fenol, others need an entire

capsule. You might need to experiment.

And, for my son, No-Fenol was not effective on all high-phenol foods,

so you might need to experiment with that also.

> Would milk all of a sudden make him want to throw up?

Depends. Are you using Peptizyde or AFP Peptizyde? Zyme Prime? Many

kids do not tolerate milk, and sometimes if you start giving enzymes,

their milk intolerance will become very pronounced.

Dana

[Guest guest]

I usually and always since I started on the scio, get

the U-oh problems when running long term therapy on

the Auto Varhope.

The clasp 32 I've been told is considered Artifical

Intelligence. I've heard Dr. explain it that

way.

Kernan

--- jadespring2003 <jadespring2003@...> wrote:

> l. the other day as I was logging into the program,

> a sign came up

> that said, " Aritifical Intelligence has adapted to

> the program. "

> Like, what does that mean

>

> 2. for the past two programs, in the SUperlearning

> section, when I

> run a program for a patient, such as " deep sleep " a

> voice comes on and

> says

> " Ut oh, problem. " Patients don't like to hear that

> and neither do I.

> Is there really a problem? If so, why hasn't it

> been fixed or is it

> something I have to do on my end?

>

> is Rotella, M.Ac., CNC

>

>