Today I went for my pre-operation appointment at University Hospital in Coventry. This is the start of a repair job needed on my back....
Rewind.... What happened to your back Hazel?
Well, it's hard to say, but I think it could be down to two suggestions..
1. When I was 19 (ish) I had a bad riding accident and fell off a horse in full gallop
or
2. About 10 years ago, I was in a car accident when my car got squashed, with me and the kids in it. I suffered whip-lash, the children were okay (thank heavens).
Any way the result is that all the time, my back hurts between my shoulder blades and 2-3 times a year, a nerve gets stuck and it creates pain down my left arm, under my arm, elbow and forearm, leaving my thumb and first two fingers numb (and/or pins and needles) - very 'ouch'!
And after a variety of osteopath, chiropractor, reflexology & physio - all without any real relief, I went for a CAT scan, which revealed the two squashed discs, bones rubbing together and central nerve pushed to one side.... my GP was amazed that I didn't complain anymore than I have done!
So, the plan is....
Next Wednesday (25th April) I go under the knife! Through my neck (2" cut) and they remove the bulging discs, put spacers between the vertebrae and fuse it all together. The proposed result should bring instant relief from back pain and no more acute arm agony... Well that is after I've healed.
The challenge is....
To behave myself, take time to heal and potter about the house for that time. Very strict instructions not to lift anything other than a kettle. Poor family - they will all have to do more (not a bad thing I guess) - I will strive to not be a naggy mum! How long that aim will last, who knows?
Thank God for the skills of surgeons, care of nursing staff and the love of family and friends who will keep me sane (I hope).
Gulp.....
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