Having Harrington rod revision by Dr. Bridwell in April

[Guest guest]

I am 56 years old and had the Harrington Rod procedure when I was 11 and again

when I was

13. I have had severe pain for several years due to flatback, etc. I have

always said that I

would never have back surgery again, but I'm at the point where I have to in

order to

continue living a life without constant pain. I was referred to Dr.

Bridwell in St. Louis

and saw him in August. He said that I needed to have the surgery within a year

or things

would be much more difficult. I have finally come to grips with this and will

have the surgery

on April 8th! I will see Dr. Bridwell for my final consult on Feb. 18th. I'm

very blessed that

my daughter and her husband live in St. Louis, so I can stay with them for an

extra week

after I get out of the hospital. I am really scared....mainly because in 1962

and 64, the pain

control after surgery was not good at all, and I remember all that stuff. On

the other hand, I

am very excited to be in his hands, and to know that I may have a much better

life ahead. I

would appreciate any comments that anyone has, and any tips you could give me

for a better

recovery.

Thanks so much!