The numbers are good as far as outcome, but I didn't like the majority of what he said to you at all. You are correct, the fact that he does cancer people has nothing to do with you. Dear woman, if it were me, I may have had to get another opinion again. The fact that he refused medication unless he himself did surgery, is trying to push you into surgery. Rather he should have laid your options out in front of you, and say, "these are the best solutions that I can come up with" or something like that. You can always go to a pain specialist until the time you decide that the surgery is right for you. If you did not feel comfortable with him now, he won't do anything to reduce your anxiety over your surgery. I have become a bit cynical I guess, I am sorry I feel that way. It's just if someone is going to do surgery on me, especially a part like my spine, I best like the guy. Did you like him at all? My first neuro dismissed me, I said no to him. Well thats Ok by me. I found another, who happened also to be a humble man of faith. He did not threaten me, or intimidate me eithor. I am picky on doctors as it is my life they are messing with. I really want to know if you liked him. What did you feel? I hope you get back to me soon, I really care about you. I have a great deal of empathy for those who suffer with back and neck problems as I have been in the same shoes. Am I being to hard with my opinion? I am sorry if I in anyway offended by what I said. ginnie