Thanks, everyone, for your encouraging words, sharing your stories and perspective. As my surgery date approaches, it really helps to keep the big picture in mind. There are so many inspiring stories on here -- definitely makes it easier to focus on a future with less back pain. And when I compare that future to doing nothing, going forward with the surgery seems like a no-brainer.
Heidi - hopefully, our paths will cross at Medicos. I'm scheduled to arrive there on Monday, Nov 18. Can't wait to hear/read all about your successful outcome!
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Nov 2010: herniated L4/5 led to back pain, sciatica and foot drop
Dec 2010: back pain resolved, sciatic pain and foot drop worsened
Jan 2011: micro-discectomy resolved sciatic pain and foot drop; back pain returned
July 2012: discogram reveals L4/5 and L3/4 have grade 3 annular tears and produced concordant pain
Nov 12, 2013: 2-level ADR (L3/4 and 4/5) by Dr. Bierstedt
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