ponyboy, i asked my mom your question, since she has had many spinal surgeries.

for her the cost never played into the picture. to have less pain...she couldn't put a $$$$$$$ figure on it.

i think back at even the first surgery. i was pretty young. i agree with her. if she hadn't done it ( and all of them ) i'm not sure what type of mom i would have had. it was really hard to see her in so much pain. i had to grow up fast. she couldn't take care of herself, let alone the house.

i'm way different than my mom. not sure if it is a higher pain tolerance or i deal with pain differently. my famliy and ESPECIALLY the monkeys don't know how much pain i have.

i think if your quality of life would better with surgery...then there is no question on the amount of money.

for me right now.....i'm not at that point. if i have more slippage, then i won't have a choice.