[Jensrib]

Some of you may remember me from 3 years ago....I have TOS (bilateral; neurogenic).

I had each 1st rib resected, and then a sympathectomy on each side as well. I had symptoms on my right side (worse than ever before!) and Dr. Stephen Annest in Denver did a lat-flap and brachial plexus scar tissue cleanout. I am actually symptomatic on the left side now -- back to the days of pain, swelling, blue colored arm...the same old stuff....and Dr Annest is going to fix me on the other side. I am so excited! I wouldn't be where I am today if I didn't have my surgery in Dec. 2003.

I will be in Denver from March 14 to April 11. I coming from Albany, NY - quite a little haul, but oh so worth it. People ask me if I am scared - not at all. I know I will be in excellent hands and I know what to expect from surgery. It really wasn't that bad! My surgeon here will (hopefully) be able to make it out to Denver with me this time to observe my surgery.

I am counting down the days until I go. I am going to have my mom fly out 2 days after me....we are going to spend the weekend taking in the beautiful scenery and hitting the zoo, aquarium...whatever! Some quality time, just me and mom...then to the OR on wed. 3/21. She goes home on 3/31...my husband will join me on 4/4 and take me home on 4/11. I'll be in the hospital on his birthday...I'll have to come up with something clever for him from long distance.

Well...just wanted to update the 'old' forum members who may remember me...Lisalamb, DiMarie, Beth, Rachel to name a few -- hope you are all well!

[LisaL-TOS]

Hi Jen, Boy, how I remember your first surgery and how well you did post -op except for getting hell for shoveling snow too soon...

I can still see the pictures taken in the hospital. My how time flies.

I know you are in good hands and I wish you a quick recovery and many pain free years ahead. Enjoy Denver and I hope you do not get snowed in when it is time to return home like my kids did at Xmas.

Please keep us updated.

Luv ya,

LisaL (Lamb)

[DiMarie]

Good to read you Jen, I remember your getting the job in the hospital and thought how brave you were. Marriage and all you grew with us.

I am saying a prayer that all goes super and get the rooter router special in and out with ease.
Keep us updated and don't be a stranger.
Di

[beth]

Hey Jen!

How's them chickens?? So good to hear from you, but sorry to hear you're headed back to Denver. Hopefully getting the left side re-done will be the final answer to your TOS saga. What a trooper you are!

Sounds like you have things planned out well. In fact, it almost sounds like you're looking forward to seeing a certain Dr. again, hmmm??? (hee, hee)

Don't forget to pack some pink fuzzy slippers, ok?

beth

[astern]

Hey Jen!

Glad you found us here! So sorry about the left side having to be done, but at least you know what it is and where to go! Tell Dr. A I said "hey".

Remember, load up on the P/SL sherbet. Orange or raspberry.
MMMmmmm!!!!

Anne

[Jensrib]

wow!

You all made it here! Thank you Lisa for pointing out the new thread in your response to my email change. I don't think I would have found you all!

Anne, I will remember the sherbet at P/SL. Last time I ordered vanilla pudding with every meal. I was on such a kick!

I confirmed my shuttle and rental car today. The man I spoke to in Denver says the weather is finally changing there...they can see the grass again and it is not sub-zero there. He says the time I will be there will be beautiful!

I will be staying at St. Christopher House this time. I am so relieved at that...the Inn at P/SL is closed ( ) and you can stay at a hotel they contract with across town. After months of searching (they should make this easier for people to find), I found St. Christopher House through Exempla St. Joseph Hospital...it's 2 blocks south of P/SL and SO much cheaper than a hotel! I am so happy!

My countdown is on...I am checking off the little fun things I want to do before surgery; I even went down-hill skiing last weekend! I started my fitness program today to get 'buffed up' before surgery. That's my valentines gift from my husband. I only have 12 shifts left at work before I leave for Denver....wehoo!

It's so good to hear from all of you again! I never forgot any of you.

DiMarie....scrolling back a little I learned of your loss of your daughter...I am so so very sorry for your loss. I can't even fathom what you are going through but I know you are a strong lady and I know you have plenty of love and strength to help you through this. You are in my prayers.

Love,

Jen

[Jensrib]

getting excited about my trip! I'll see if I can get my mom to post for me after the surgery. Same hospital....presbyterian/st. lukes in Denver....you can send e-cards there! I'll PM my last name if you want

[DiMarie]

Thanks for your kind words Jen, it is very difficult, a piece of my heart just ripped out. I am so very lucky though to have suce wonderful friends here on the forum, anmd long times from the old BT.

I am wishing you well and praying for a speedy recovery. So far looks like you have everything planned out so well, you amaze me. I would be insuch a fuddle to travel to Denver.

Keep us posted as you can and perhaps Mom can let us know that things went well.
My love,
Di

[dreambeliever128]

I just wanted to tell you hi and that I hope your surgery goes ok.

Also you might want to go to the Resturant called Casa Bonita, it has the best Mexican food and entertainment. A Mexican band seranades while you eat, they have people who high dive off into a waterfall and more.

I have pictures of where we have been there and it is such a fun place and the food is good.

Ada