Post SCS "Must-Haves"

[Spiney95]

I am going the extra distance in my preperation because it looks like I will be needing disc/lam on two levels in addition to the implant. It's that extra work that has me a bit concerned. The last time I had a multi level disc/lam, it threw me into a fibro flare that lasted for months and it was wicked.

While not wanting to be negative, my pain doc and I are making post op plans based on my surgical history. If I have the extra work done or any lammies for paddles, Medicare will allow me to have some time in the rehab hospital. I sure hope so as I usually have post op infections and hate readmissions. I sure will be happy to be on the other side of this.

[Saffy]

I won't be doing any changes to what I do now as there is no one at home during the day.

[Mark56]

One reality discovered after purchasing grabbers was one has a magnetic tip to it. Handy little gizmo.

Spine! Those preps are terrific! Next thing you know, there will be young folks popping up with big chain rings hooked to the ear lobe with the phone tethered!!! You may be onto something there!

Saffy-- even so, I hope all will be well!

Colleen- We are hoping the best!

Water bottles.... get water bottles by bedside!
Yup,
thirst quenching,
Mark56

[SnowWhyte]

First, I'd like to thank you all for your input, it's been (and will be) most helpful coming up. Please keep the ideas coming!

Next, I just want to share my silly little success- I got my shower chair AND put it together all by myself... lol, it was extremely easy, but I figure why not celebrate the small successes? Anyway, that's my little celebratory story

Thanks again everybody

~Colleen

[Mark56]

Colleen gets the Celebrate This award for original shower chair assembly in a flash of productivity!!!
Hooray!!!
Mark56

[SnowWhyte]

Lol, Mark, you are so silly! You officially get the "Made my day" Award! I'm having a rough night (flare coming on), but you've made me smile! Thank you for that!

~Colleen

[Rrae]

....Colleen! For her gift of wisdom in the Science of Toiletry Gadgets !!

ANNNND! To MARK56 for his ongoing gift of humor
Without which, we would all be wallowing in the lowest depths of the darkest doldrums.

Rae

[SnowWhyte]

So after talking to my mom (and I suspect some talks w/her and my step-dad), she has agreed to dog-sit my dog for at least the first couple of weeks post perm SCS op. (assuming trial goes well, fingers crossed).

I've been so worried about how I was going to take care of him, as I live alone, and although it will be very lonely, and I will be very sad, at least I know he'll be taken care of properly... I just can't imagine a scenario in which I DON'T end up bending/stretching/reaching, etc. while taking care of his everyday needs if he stays here.... practically everything I do that involves him is on the "no no" list of movements. From letting him out of his crate in the morning, to feeding him, to putting on his leash for a walk... So it's going to be sad, but I'm SO relieved that he'll be taken care of and I'll be able to heal and besides, when he comes back, he'll be coming back to a better, more lively, and MUCH more fun "mommy"!

[Mark56]

I had not given thought to the possibility of pet care as a necessity. Good thing you have family to care! Way cool.
I just have a feeling all will be well,
Prayin,
Mark56

[SnowWhyte]

Mark-
Yup, I think you might be right! At least so far things seem to be falling into place, so this whole thing might just turn out after all! (not that my worrying has stopped, but it has let up a bit).

As for pet care- I cannot express how grateful I am that my mom is taking care of Brinkley (my dog)... as I was telling her, practically everything I do with him from day to night is on the "no no" list of actions/activities. I am SO relieved that he'll be in good hands while I recuperate. And that I wont pull my leads out (I honestly was really worrying that by taking care of my dog alone, that was a BIG possibility!

Anyway, you really think everything is going to work out? I so hope you're right... and you always seem to be, so I'm going to take that as a very good sign! Only other big worry is either A: getting my implant surgery at the surgery center vs at the hospital, or B: being squeezed in early at the hospital, so I make it in time before my ins runs out (but we've been over this... I'm just paranoid about it) But I'm gonna believe you- it will all work out, first with Brinkley, (my dog), next with the rest!

Mind over Matter!

Colleen