and so it begins...

Well, those of you who are following me through this struggle with my back, I have some good news and some bad news. Bad news first. The Neurosurgeon I went to see on Monday told me that basically the only thing that could fix my back is surgery. Bummer. However, I opted for physical therapy for a week, to see if there were any improvements. He also got me a prescription for a high dose of some anti-inflammatory medication to help with the pain. Okay, so at this point in the day I'm feeling pretty discouraged and bummed. BUT WAIT, the good news?? When I went to my first round of PT, my therapist told me that he's seen patients with my same injury, on the brink of surgery, who have totally healed without surgery! YAY! Finally some good news. He gave me some stretches and exercises to do that will help strengthen my back, and get rid of some of the pain. Talk about encouragement! I'm beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel so to speak. My attitude is much better, and I'm going to work hard in PT. Anything to save me from surgery! Thanks to everybody who's praying for my back. I'm going to see another Neurosurgeon on Friday b/c the first one I saw wouldn't take my insurance, so we'll see what this guy has to say.... I'll be sure to keep ya posted. THANKS!