Thank you for the information, Johanna - most helpful!

Yes, I have read about BLaST - I intend to follow it to the letter. Fortunately, I have a sweet hubby who wants me to feel better as much as I do, and he will not let me life a finger after the surgery. He really is the best, and I am so very blessed to have him. I have also read many of Mark56's threads, posts, etc. Everyone has such good insight. The road that we all walk with this is so very similar, yet so very different. I am thankful to have found a place where I can learn from others, and maybe one day be an encouragement to someone else, as well.

My rep called me today - she had spoken with my doctor, and due to the end of the year, and the fact that Dec. 24th is the last day he will be doing surgery for the year, he needed me to give them an answer today as to whether or not I would have the surgery on Tuesday. On one hand, I don't want to feel pressured to make a decision - which I told her - but on the other hand, I understand that there are a lot of people who need to have things done before the end of year, for insurance reasons. In fact, I am one of those people. It wouldn't really be right to wait until Monday to give them an answer, when someone else is waiting to move forward.

In light of the fact that the area in my back has continued to heal and feel better, I told them that I would keep my surgery spot for Tuesday, December 24. I'm nervous, hopeful, scared . . . well, you get the drift.

So there it is - decision made. I sure would appreciate any and all prayers!

=Becky