Oh Junie,
You don't have to be sorry for anything. I'm the one that's sorry that you are having to go through all this, virtually alone. :( It's very sad indeed. Yes, our pets can be wonderful comrads when things look bleak. They never judge and always want to be close. I have always wanted one of those dogs and hopfully, eventually, I will get one. I use to have a basset hound that I loved so much. I had him for thirteen years until he got sick and I had to have him put to sleep. It was one of the sadest days of my life. Junie, it's a shame that your family does not support you. That is suppose to be what family's are for. I understand about your kids as my kids are basically the same way. They don't like to think of Mom being sick, so they try and ignore it. But, for your husband and Mom and the rest of the family, they should all be there for you. I wish I could give you a great big hug. Don't give up, just keep coming on here and posting anytime you want. It isn't the same as real contact but know that our thoughts and prayers are just as powerful. Take care.
Love,
Linda :)

Yes. Post, post and post again if you are able. Talk to as many people as you can. Know that they care, because they do. And most have some idea of what you're experiencing, even if it's not exactly the same. I went through my last surgery with no visits during or after except for my one best friend, so I know what that feels like. But I'm sending every good wish and feeling I have your way, and continuously hoping that you start feeling better real soon...

Idealist

Progressive?
 

Dear Junie,

Arachnoiditis seems to be a catch-all phrase for conditions affecting the arachnoid membrane surrounding the spinal nerve. I do not believe that anyone can say with authority that it is progressive.

Your hospital sucks. I feetl qualified to make this statement because I was treated in a similar hospital some twenty-five years ago and was subjected to wholly unnecessary, (excruciating) pain because of an indifferent surgeon and lazy, or overworked nurses. I always advise folks to avoid proprietary hospitals and get treated at a hospital that is attached to a medical school. There is a much better chance of your getting proper treatment.

2 WEEKS!! and no morphine pump! You must be a very "good" patient. Scream more. The squeaky wheel gets the most grease.

For future reference, there is an prosthetic spinal disk available now in the US called the "Charite". It is intended to obliviate the need for fusion. These disks were available in Europe since the 1980's but just got approved by the FDA here two years ago. Since most orthopods were never trained in their use, they are unlikely to offer them to patients over "good ol' fusion", a therapy that has no better success rate that just leaving everything alone.

The pain will ameliorate, especially if someone remembers to pick up the morphine pump from the mail room.

When you are feeling better, transfer your care to a major teaching hospital.

Good luck,