Dear Mary,

Your story brings a smile to my face every time I read it. Thanks so much for taking the time to keep us updated. Its so important that we hear the "good stuff" once in a while! I love it!!

Do you think the pain pump would be a problem if you are really thin? I have heard that the batteries for the SCS are pretty heavy and bulky, but how about the pain pump? Is it the same? I have lost a tremendous amount of weight since becoming sick, and currently fit into size 2-4. There really isn't a lot of available flesh on me for any spare parts. Where is your "pump" implanted? Does it stick out? Can you feel it?

And one more question - is there a way they can get the pain pump to take care of head pain? Do the leads reach that far up the neck? That's where the bulk of my problems are. I can deal with the pain just about everywhere else. Its when my head feels like its going to split into pieces that I just can't deal....

I am planning to try ketamine. But could use a plan B if that doesn't work....and I know my doc in Boston does pain pumps.

I am very happy for you!! Take care, Love Sandy