Hi--

So, those of you who know my story know I had spine surgery in feb 2006, which didn't heal.

I have no choice but have more surgery now. Four loose screws are a threat to the safety of my spine now. The doctors are afraid that if I fall, a pedicle could fracture, and that if we don't do something, eventually very bad things will happen. A year is about the longest they like to let people walk around with loose screws.

So, today I had an epidural, or two: L5/S1 and L4/L5. I'm hoping this holds me for a couple of months.

I'm leaving for vacation tomorrow morning, returning Jan 21, and on Jan 25 I will have a myelogram, which will help direct the surgeon to exactly how much he has to do.

What is definite is that it's anterior/posterior "cages" and screws and rods again. How many levels is not clear

But also, I injured my shoulder, and the pain guy thinks there's a tear, and that I need a shoulder ortho and MRI when I return also.

His basic instruction: don't fall.

I've gotten those wonderful collapsable trekking poles, and am bringing pastels and pencils, so if the going feels too tough, I can just hang out and zone or draw.

"see" you all when you return, and my Brooklyn posse (you know who you are)--I'm going to be counting on you again!

I just want to continue to get and stay strong until the surgery, that's all. It's just one big do-over, is how I'm trying to look at it.

Best to everyone...