Hi Adey and Gerry,

Well, here it is almost Christmas and I have found myself being laid up for the holidays. Not so bad, but can't wait for the complete healing.

Nov 4, saw the Neurosurgeon in Pittsburgh (Dr. Joseph Maroon) He said I too had a birth defect. My spinal canal was smaller than normal. The reason for the brain, back and leg issues were that I had disc bulges at all but 3 of my spinal vertebra. As I had thought, he would read my MRI's differently than the others have, being PCP, Chiro, etc.

I had a Grade 1 slippage at my L4-L5 (lumbar) and I have a Grade 2 slippage in my neck C5-C6 (cervical) among other problems with the other vertabra. Thecal sac compressions.

All this time thinking I had MS, thinking the Chiro's might fix me.
Now the Neurosurgeon is said surgery would be my best bet.

Well ... after spending good hard earned money, and researching this US reknown Neurosurgeon and the difference between regular open spine surgery and minimumally invasive surgery.

Again after much discussion with husband and family, the minimumally invasive is the way I chose. He said that if I didn't get the slippage fixed my leg and back problems would get worse. I didn't even know there was something called Caude Equine, something about the nerves being compressed that go to my legs. And the fact I was having problems going to the bathroom. I didn't put two and two together.

Too long so the gist of it is ... Nov 24 I had MES (minimumally invasive surgery) to the L4-L5 discs. They did a lamenectomy (they take your lamina off and let the nerves have more room) and then fusing the L4 to L5, using my own bone and crushed bone from a bone bank. Stayed over night. They gave me great drugs. Its nice not feeling pain, lol

Went home Nov 25 only to return to the hospital Nov 28 with blood drainage seaping into my body. So, they went back in and put a drain in and when I woke up, I saw this bulb hanging on my side filled with bloody fluid.

Well ... Left hospital Dec 3 and now recouping at home. Have to wear a back brace for 6 weeks, then off and on after that.

I have to say I am a bit tired, but NO MORE PAIN in my legs. I feel like a new person and I can sleep at night without the legs waking me up.

Jan 9 is my check up. Have to say, it was an ordeal BUT I am pain free and I can walk and drive. Can't go back to work until I have PT and work hardening.

Sorry so long. But again, don't give up! I believe now that you have to be your own avocate. You know your body more than anyone else.

I pray you find relief.

God Bless You all and Merry Christmas!