[Rachael]

I got the call today. I have to be in Halifax on Dec 10th for pre-op and surgery scheduled for morning of 11th.

Not feeling as brave as I was the other day, but I'll be ok. Looking forward to the 75% chance I will have my life back.

I want to thank each and everyone of you for all the support over the years. I really think I would have turned mental had I not had this wonderful, supportive and knowledgable group. To all of you "THANK YOU". It has been 5 long years....and I can now see the light and the end of the tunnel...

Rach

[hairdresser]

Surgery date December 11th
Hi Rachael; Just wanted to let you know I wish you a sucessful surgery. I pray that your recovery is complete. Just know that I'll be wishing you well.

[LinJane]

Rachael I had my surgery in 2000. It took me a long time to feel better. But, It was the best thing I could have done. I orignally had a disc replacement in 1999 with bone transplanted from my hip. The pain never went away and that was when I was diagnosed with TOS. After my surgery it took awhile but eventually I was completely pain free. I have had a relapse lately but am now about 85% better than before.

It is possible to get better. Think positively and listen to the instructions you are given. My son, who recently has broken his leg, occasionally spoken negatively. I try to enforce the positive because it DOES make a difference. Also , prayer and friends. When someone offers to help in anyway, accept it. Best wishes for a Great recovery. Keep everyone posted on how you are doing. Linda

[Jomar]

Now that a date is set for you , I'm guessing some uncertainty is gone , but maybe a new kind of anxiety has arrived.
I'm sure all will go well for you.

positive thoughts, as Linda suggests, is a good idea.
Get prepared the best you can and try not to worry about the rest.

[tshadow]

Rachael,

I am glad I had the surgery.

Be positive, and do just take one day at a time. Healing as your focus each day. Try not to create new scar tissue - whatever that may mean for you.

Keep us posted, but do not get on the computer in the "normal" way, as I believe it is harmful to TOS - get voice software, try to lay on the bed, and/or have a friend post for you. Limit time on it.

These are just my suggestions, hope you take them as such...

God bless you on your surgery day!

[Rachael]

Thank you all for your warm wishes. I am feeling a tad bit over whelmed with the thoughts of so much going on in a short period of time. Worried about pain levels and how long the healing will be. I was unsure what to tell my employer I needed for time off so I said 6 weeks as that what Dr B mentioned.

9 days and counting...

Rach

[dabbo]

Rachael - best wishes for a successful surgery and good recovery. I've not had the surgery, but everyone says to take it easy afterwards.
-dabbo

[fern]

Rachel,

I am wishing you a week of ease as you settle things pre-surgery and settle into the fact that your life will hopefully be a lot better after surgery and allowing for a proper and supportive time of healing doing whatever will allow the surgery to be most effective. Please listen to what your body really needs as you go into this time of surgery and healing.

best wishes for a speedy and a complete-as-possible recovery.

[mtnmom]

That is great news to have a date finally set, Racheal! It is very scary going into it, but it will be over quickly and you will be on the road to recovery soon! I will be thinking about you and sending good wishes your way for a sucessful surgery. Please let us all know how it goes! Good luck and hang in there!

[Celi]

You will be in my prayers, I am scheduled for the 12th so hopefully we can send positive thoughts to one another knowing someone else is right there with you!!