First of all, let me say I will be praying for you and your mother that God will reveal to you the path you should take. I know He will. As for my experience with spinal pain surgery was most assuredly the answer. I had my surgery about six years ago and have not regreated it even one moment. I went to the Brain and Spine Institute in Ft. Worth Tx, and had my surgery at Harris Methodist there. I had to spend one night in the hospital as well as another night at my sisters because my doctor would not allow me to travel for 48 hours. Just begin searching for the best Dr. you can find in your area and I know God will do the rest Best wishes.