[JJames]

Thank you all very much for your thoughtful input. It is oddly of some comfort mentally that there are others who are feeling as trapped as I am in this world of isolation and pain as sad as that is. It is so difficult on my wife and children to have to put up with my back issues. CindyLou, I live in Enfield, CT (not too far from Glastonbury, but of course CT is a small state).

Believe it or not, I haven't even been contacted by my surgeon, Dr. Yue's, office to schedule my latest MRI yet! When my wife called last week on my behalf it appears they are having some trouble finding where exactly he requested one be done! I have done my homework, and Dr. Yue appears to be a very impressive and successful surgeon on "paper" but I am seriously losing faith.

Any suggestions from anyone on finding the "right" surgeon? I've seen several in NY city, and am certainly not opposed to go to Boston, MA. I have recently received a suggestion regarding a surgeon in Hartford, CT who I plan to look into.

I MUST have something done. I have had it with living this way. By some miracle I continue to work, and have not yet been fired. I can't help but wonder if pushing through the pain and continuing this is the wrong choice for me. I am driving 120+ miles/day commuting on all these meds, having great difficulty concentrating and remembering things, etc. I don't know what else to do. I need to provide for my family financially somehow!

Aaah, I just don't know anymore.

Thanks all - Jeff