Welcome to Neuro talk. You have been through alot. Have you gotten more than one or two opinions about the TOS after the surgery? I know how difficult it must be with the children. I would also ask in the Social Security forum about the dissability issues. Your doctor should be behind this 100%. The process is long, and a personal letter from all your doctors will help in the long run. A dissability lawyer, or representative is almost a must to keep things moving along. You can't help what happened to you, so I don't think your age will necessarily work against your favor. It is the truth however that this process takes quite awhile. Please get a few more opinions to make sure there is nothing more that can be done to correct the condition. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I hope alot of others come by to say hello and offer support. ginnie