Hi Sea Pines,

Thanks to you and others who have replied. I feel so loved already! And I apologize for taking so long to get back to you...I've been away from my computer for several days. To answer your question about my rib resection, I am about 90% sure that he is only doing a partial rib removal. But because you raised the question, I am now skeptical. My pre-op should be Aug. 14th (I'm waiting for a call to confirm the date), and I will definitely ask him about it.

Thanks again for your support, and I'll "talk" to you again soon!