Billye-

I would ask his surgeon if there is a chance that he can be admitted to an in-patient rehab place for a few days after surgery. That way, nurses will be available 24/7 in the place. He'll get meals served to him, a daily visit by a PA or doctor, and then occupational and physical therapy classes.

I had a 3 level ACDF in 2002 that left me almost completely helpless. I have no family, so my doctor insisted that I be put in an in-patient rehab place. I spent 4 days, and it was worth it to have the help available.

One thing you might consider doing for him, renting a hospital bed for a month. It runs around $150, and I did one for me because my bedroom is on the second floor. I just had my chair in the den moved, plopped the bed in there, and could watch TV or sleep. One piece of advice, put a sheet down on the carpet. The grease from the wheels got into my carpet.

joe