Whisper1(Linda) Thread #8

Sun Through The Clouds


Life is good!

Even though the surgery was postponed resulting in another week of intense pain, many blessings abound.

There was a message on the machine from my neurologist to please call me at her home number. We had a loving and lengthy conversation wherein she felt sorry for her strong statements regarding not having the surgery.

She looked at the report sent by the surgeon and agrees that the operation must occur. Most importantly, she affirmed my conviction to proceed even though she strongly was initially opposed.

She called even though personally she had a terrible week wherein she was in Mass. and was hospitalized. Her energy was weak and yet it was important to her that I know she valued our friendship.

We both ended with affirmation of each other and the importance of our long-term relationship. I heard a catch in her voice and she heard the same in mine as we ended with tears and joy.

Me first!
I thought when we talked you were going to rest.

Read a nice cozy little book to take your mind off of all around you.
Sleep peacefully.
Easy hugs and light kisses....

Beautiful picture! I'm glad to hear that life is good and I hope all goes well with the surgery when it does take place.

Lovely picture! Also lovely to hear that a reconciliation has taken place with your neurologist, initiated by her.

Yet another blessing.

Brenda, a nurse in my cardiologist office asked for a minute of my time so that she could tell me something important to her.

After I finished the nuclear stress test she told me that she believed I was a vehicle for her Aunt to communicate with her.

The day I had supra tachycardia, with a pulse of 180-190 in the cardiologist's office, she was one of the nurses who helped to stabilize me before the ambulance took me to the hospital.

Right before the doctor told her of the emergency, she rec'd. a phone call telling her that her 94 year old aunt had passed away. Because her Aunt raised her, she was naturally very sad but couldn't dwell on it because she had to help me.

Fast forward one year later to the date of her Aunt's death when she prayed to her Aunt wondering how she was and telling her how very much she missed her and longed to know that her Aunt had transitioned well.

That same day two rows in front of her, in a very large theater, during the production of the play, she saw me. She said that she started to have tears in her eyes and that at that moment I looked back, saw her and smiled.

I don't remember seeing her and smiling at her. She does remember that she believes it was not a co-incidence that on the one year anniversary of her Aunt's passing and the one year anniversary of her helping me, I was in a large theater where hundreds were attending a play and that I was sitting where she could notice me.

She asked me if I believed her and I answered with a strong yes!

-------------------

Wow what an amazing story! Im so glad you and her can take comfort in that meeting.
I hope also you can last OK til the surgery. What an anti-climax for you!
(((hugs)))

Hi Cheli

I slept most of the afternoon. It was a deep, sound sleep. I was too tired to read. I've been in my pjs most of the day.

A dear friend gifted me with a new set of jammies from L.L. Bean. They are soft and comfy.

Hi Zoe and Terri. Thanks for stopping by!

Hi Meagan.

Thanks for your outreach and hugs. I am surrounded by light and love and I move forward to the surgery in good hands.

That is a wonderful, wonderful bit of news about your neurologist, Linda. Could not have wished for a better outcome.

*hugs*

Wonderful news about your neurologist, Linda. I pray that your surgery will go beautifully.

Oh, Linda, I'm so sorry. Multiple hugs.

Thinking of you , LInda- Take Care!

Good morning Linda, I have been following your countdown to surgery and was so sorry to hear of the cancellation. I strongly believe that there is a reason for it, though we may not be privy to it just yet or perhaps ever, I have seen other circumstances unfold in the same way. Maybe now or sometime down the road, the delay will be explained. The conversation with your neurologist would never have happened, for instance, and I believe that was a great comfort to you, in addition to removing any small doubt you may have due to her resistance. I only wish you didnt have to suffer until your scheduled day. Huge,gentle hugs from hubby and I and countless whiskery, warm and wet kisses from my six-pack of pooches:-3

I'm so happy to hear that you have such amazing and caring doctors and nurses all through this process - that's fantastic and, sadly, quite rare, I think.

hello Linda--glad to hear you're getting some rest. What a wonderful thing for your friend the neurologist to do! It sounds like she values your friendship very much and truly wants the best for you.

I'll be interested to hear more about your journeys in Buddhism. Although I'm a Christian, I started a similar path of discovery several years ago when I was going through some very hard times and was introduced to Thich Nhat Hanh's writings. Buddhist meditation, mindfulness and breathing have all helped me through; as well as the wise words of several favorite Buddhist writers.

So glad to hear about the neurologist--I know that had been bothering you. And I now forgive your surgeon as well, even though I rant against the extra week of pain. *smooches*

Great photo up top, Linda, and what moving stories. You seem to have a profound effect on people. I'm not used to hearing stories like this about doctors and nurses, and I'd sure like to be. It's encouraging. I'm sorry the pain is so bad, but you seem to be doing wonderfully well on other fronts.

Happy things are looking so bright for you Linda. Thinking of you and wishing you all the best.

Linda, Love the picture, and I am so moved by the outreach of your doctors, nurses and surgeon. What wonderful stories of life and how loving and kind people can be, including you and your kindness it helps me to believe there are still good people in the world and a reminder that we are all human and errors can occur. We are all lucky in the fact to call you a friend and the fact that your surgeon noticed the error prior to starting your surgery. I am still praying for your and sending loving and heartfelt energy your way and thinking of you each day. {{{Hugs}}}

Glad to hear that you are able to get some rest.. and a great photo!

Linda, I'm amazed as usual at what an extraordinarily wonderful person you are. While I echo your statement that this delay was for a reason, I'm hoping that in the coming days before surgery your pain is lessened as much as possible, and that you can rest up for your healing journey ahead. Blessings abound where you are - here's to those blessings being reflected back upon you.

(((HUGS)))

I was very touched that yesterday the rough, tough and often very gruff RD put a lovely and very sensitive message on FB yesterday re your travails Linda.
SWMBO drew my attention to it as I don't use FB too often but it demonstrates that:
a) RD is a much better guy than he pretends...in fact he is a great fellow; and
b) there is a tremendous groundswell of positivity coming your way and wishing you well with your treatment.

Congrats on the lastest thread dear lady.

Linda, I am with you as we count down to surgery yet again. Such a disappointment last week which you handled with extreme grace. I think you are well on the way to attaining that perfect sense of calm and peace that I associate with Buddhism. The reconciliation with your neurologist is just another example of the impact you have on others. May you continue to be surrounded with love and positive energy during the wait, the surgery, and your recovery.

>22 PaulCranswick: *initiates slander and libel actions against Paul*

I. AM. ***NOT***. NICE!!

True, RD is not nice .. he's a cuddly, sweet, kind and wonderful honey-bunny!

Linda, I'm sorry to hear the surgery has been postponed a week, and I certainly hope the pain subsides somewhat this week. Continuing to send pain-free vibes over to you and the gentlest of big hugs.

>25 cameling: *gawks*

Hello, Mad As A Wombat dot com helpline? Yes, hello, I have a Boston area pick-up for you...mmm hmmm, delusional ravings, hallucinations, the works...restraints? oh probably not, there's a husband involved...do hurry, though, poor lady's in desperate straits!

Are wombats generally known for their insane properties?

Heavens yes! Wombats are wildly unpredictable and prone to practical joking.

>22 PaulCranswick:, 24-28 LOL!

Linda, I'm sorry to read that your surgery had to be postponed. I hope you've been able to rest this week, since the weeks leading up to this were so stressful for you. I'll be thinking of & praying for you on Thursday, and hope all goes well with the operation & recovery.

Just reserving my spot on your new thread and still thinking of you!

Wait, we're reserving new spots already?

Hello to all. It is my sincere hope that when I'm feeling better I can visit threads more actively. Thursday cannot come soon enough. The pain level feels like a constant nine. I'm very cranky and out of sorts.

And, chiming in regarding Richard....They don't come much more finer than him! He is indeed an incredible, sensitive soul.

BOOK#77


Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Calder White is a merman emotionally tethered to his mermaid sisters who are out for bloody revenge for a long-ago debt.
If you think this sounds like a weird premise for a book, you are right. But, if you think it is all fluff and pretty, twinkling light- filled images, you are wrong.

I bought this book at a YA festival held at my local library. I admit that the cover pulled me in. Of all the books for sale on the table, this one called out to me.

It is not a typical story of sirens luring sailors, rather it is a dark, deep tale of undersea creatures who can metamorphasize into humans when required.

Calder is promised that the bonds to his sisters can be broken if he assists in luring the daughter of their intended prey. His actions set a chain of events that ripple not only the water, but his heart as well.

Recommended.

I'm so sorry to hear you that your pain level is a constant 9..
hope Thursday will come quickly and that your pain will lessen..

Linda, Lies Beneath sounds like a really interesting read. I've added it to my obese wishlist.

Yea 75! Congrats

Thursday is within sight!

I hope you have a good sound sleep tonight...when you wake up, Thursday will be the day after tomorrow...

A candle in the midst of pain - 75 has been reached!
Congrats!

Lovely new thread, Linda! The photo up top says it all, doesn't it? It's like a photo of your wonderful spirit which inspires us all to be better. Thanks for sharing those wonderful stories that touch on the humanity in each of us. I am awed by your reaction to your surgery delay. As the new date of your surgery draws near, know that I am thinking about you and praying for you.

Congrats on reaching 75! Incredible amidst everything else that you are dealing with. I loved your review of Lies Beneath - duly added to my WL.

*chiming in on the Richard debate - I am convinced he is a sweetie. Just saying...

I picked up Lies Beneath thru my local bookstore when they had a signing at one of their locations. I didn't really know anything about it either, but I agree, the cover looks great. I'm glad to hear that it's worth the read. And congrats on reaching your 75!!

I hope Thursday gets here fast for you and you get the relief that you deserve! ((hugs))

I hope Thursday comes quickly, and provides the relief you need :)

Linda, thank you for sharing the stories of your cardiologist and nurse - it sounds like they've been a real encouragement to you over the last few days. Thinking of you as you approach Thursday. Sending very firm prayer requests that everything goes according to plan this time.

dear Linda

wish you strength for Thursday, hope all goes wel!!!
Sending healing thoughts over the Atlantic for you.

hugs
Anita

PS re msg 22, 24-28, some of us know Richards true nature, he hides it behind a grumpy tone, but some do know better!

Dear Linda, I'm just chiming in again and enjoying the entirely appropriate thread picture. You are a champion!
Ditto about the coming around of your neurologist and more beams of positive thought for the nurse to whom you have been such a help.
You know that you have all kinds of support and prayers for successful surgery and healing and that lots of them are coming from N.C.!

Yay 75!! I sure thought you were younger than that, though.

See? SEE?! I am *not* all sweet and cuddly! So there!

Congratulations on reaching the 75 book mark despite all going on in your life.

Wow.... just WOW to the stories at the beginning of the thread. They just affirm how much you are loved and appreciated by everyone whose lives you touch. You are a very special person.

I want to let you know that I have been sending positive energy your way since the surgery was postponed, and will redouble my efforts tomorrow..

I know that you will be just, absolutely fine.

Please know that I will be sending daily hugs as well, my friend

((((((((Linda)))))))

Thinking of you for tomorrow, and hoping that all goes well.

Hi Linda--So sorry you have to wait, it sucks living with chronic pain. I am glad you had the chance to have the important converstations with your doctors and wish you the best of luck on round two! LOVE the picture up top and hope the sun comes out for you soon. Thanks for sharing your stories and keeping us in the loop. Best wishes--sending light and love your way.

Congratulations on reaching the 75th book already!
Despite the premise sounding a bit...weird as you put it, it still sounds interesting!
I'll add in to my tbr pile and will check it out..

Hope your surgery goes well tomorrow..

Congrats on reaching 75 books, fellow Linda. Hope all goes well for you on Thursday!!

Good luck tomorrow, Linda!

Wishing you all the best as you get ready for tomorrow's surgery Linda. You've got an awful lot of people praying and sending you good vibes. It's just payback for us as you are such a sweet thoughtful soul and everyone has been a recipient of you kindness.

((Hugs)) and prayers going up, lovey!

Thinking of you, Linda.

Thinking of you!

Been praying for hours, know it will go well.

Already Thursday here of course. So am thinking of you early, and hoping that (a) your surgery remains scheduled and (b) it all goes swimmingly and that (c) you recover well and fully.

*warm thoughts in the jet stream coming your way*

Best wishes for today.

Hoping that everything is still going to plan, and that in a few hours you'll be on the road to feeling much better. Also hope you are fully aware of all the people rooting for you across the world.

My prayers and thoughts are with you today my friend.

Sending healing energy

Bonam Fortunam! Adding my good vibes to the flow...

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Linda! May this surgery go well, and recovery be quick and uncomplicated.

(And congrats on reaching 75!)

Thinking of you and praying for you, Linda. I hope everything goes well today, and you have a swift recovery.

((((((((((Linda))))))))))

Just joining the chorus of good wishes, Linda.

I am blessed and will hold all of you in my heart. I am preparing to leave for the hospital. I joked with Will and said that I'm not leaving the hospital until they do surgery.

Words cannot express my gratitude to all of you. I'm weary and in a lot of pain. I'm a tad nervous now, remembering the rough recovery. But, I'm ready!

Thanks again and again and again.

So good to hear from you Linda. Thinking of you {{{Hugs}}}

Thoughts and prayers directed your way.

My thoughts and prayers are also with you today, Linda. And congratulations on hitting the 75 books mark!

Linda,
My first thoughts upon waking this morning are of you. I have been keeping my family informed (they know you as that really nice lady on LT) and all of us are praying for you today and will continue to pray until we are updated that you have been spotted swing-dancing at a company Christmas party!
Holding you close to my heart all day...sending positive thoughts your way...Mary Beth

Thoughts and prayers are with you today that all goes superbly well!

Thinking and praying for you!

Positivity forwarded from here dear Linda. Fingers and toes duly crossed for a speedy and successful outcome.

I was hoping that I'd find a surgery-completed-successfully message here but apparently I came too soon.

Hi Linda- I hope everything went well. Fingers crossed, my friend. Gentle Hug!

I received a call from Linda: Her surgery was postponed until after 5pm ET this evening. If I hear anything further, I will let everyone know.

Yikes, the waiting must have been awful. I hope the surgery is now proceeding smoothly.

Thanks for the update, Stasia.

oof more delays! *there there, pat pat*

That is really unforgivable. After last week she should have had priority status, barring a serious life threatening emergency. Poor Linda.

*emphatically agrees with Kath*

Thank you, Stasia. Good grief!

Praying your surgery is over and successful.
May the nurses and angels attend to you now and shower you with good health blessings!

Linda update: She is out of recovery and in her room. According to Will, she looks OK, but is in a lot of pain - 10 out of 10 on the scale. She will be hospitalized for at least a couple of days, possibly more, and the overall recovery schedule will be around 3 months.

Thank goodness she's in recovery, and here's to hoping she will be out of pain soon.

Thanks for the updates, Stasia!

Thanks so much for your updates, Stasia.

Thanks for updating us, Stasia. Lynda, you are in my thoughts and I have all fingers and toes crossed for a speedy recovery. (((Hugs)))

Good morning! Linda, I know it will probably be a while before you're back on LT and see our messages, but I'm glad you got through your surgery safely, and I do hope and pray that you are in less pain today!

Thinking of you, Linda - hoping that 10-point pain is getting weaker by the second...

Fingers crossed they've got the pain under control now and you're beginning to feel a bit better. At least now there is the possibility of lowering it, and I hope things ease off quickly.

Thank you, Stasia! We are all much relieved. I expect that today and maybe tomorrow will be off the charts in the pain department, but now we can look at the pain as being a necessary step toward healing, I do devoutly hope!

Thanks, Stasia. Hard to hear Linda's in that much pain. I hope they get on top of that quickly. Lots of positive thoughts for her recovery.

I am going to try and get hold of Will later this evening. If I have any more updates, I will let everyone know. If I can talk to Linda - which I suspect I cannot - I will pass along everyone's good wishes (either directly or indirectly through Will).

Oh dear. I was hoping the pain would be at least diminished and start going away for good. Is this level of pain expected following surgery? Do you know, Stasia?

Gentle wishes Linda for massive relief.
Holding you in prayer... I hope someone is listening.

Thanks for the updates Stasia. Linda, thinking of and praying for you. I hope the pain diminishes a lot really soon.

Thanks, Stasia for letting us know!

Linda, my thoughts and prayers are always with you.

Hi, everyone

update about Linda

I just finished talking to Will and he said that Linda was doing okay but that she was still in a great deal of pain - still level 10 (I told him to tell her to lie next time and say 12!) The surgeon told him that everything went fine, but that he had removed a bone fragment and could understand why she had been having trouble walking.
They were going to keep her drugged up most of the day so that she wouldn't be suffering/sleeping most of the time. Will was going home for a nap.

I told him that we were all praying that our sweet Linda would soon be feeling better with severely reduced pain levels.

The patient is expected to be in the hospital at least tomorrow and Sunday.
Hopefully Will will keep either Stasia or I posted as Linda's condition changes and that she is on the road to recovery soon.

Oh wow.. pain level of 10? :( I can't even imagine what that would be like..
hope she feels better soon..

we will all be here for you Linda!
Best wishes

Thanks for the update. Continuing to hold Linda in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank goodness they are keeping her sedated, so she doesn't have to be aware of the pain level most of the time. Thank you for the updates!

Thanks for the news and passing on our prayers etc, Cheli! Part of me hopes they'll keep her in hospital until her pain has diminished somewhat, otherwise it sounds hopefull.

Thanks Stas and Cheli for keeping us updated. I was hoping her pain would be alleviated after the surgery. I can't even fathom what pain level 10 must be like. Poor Linda. Sending prayers, kisses and gentle hugs her way.

That bone fragment was a bit of a surprise. Thanks, Cheli, and hopefully the sedation will keep most of the pain at bay now.

Here's how I explain Level 10+ pain

It feels like giving birth to a 500 pound elephant with claws - sharp claws!
I've been there, done that, and I'm hoping that Linda is very shortly at a lower level. 10+ pain is "just kill me now" level especially if there is nothing that you can do to ease it other be drugged. Linda amazes me by her ability to function as well as she has in the past few weeks.

Thanks for the updates, Chèli.

#108

You've given birth to a 500lb elephant with claws? Wow, must have given the midwives a surprise!

In all seriousness, thanks for the updates, and I hope Linda is pain free while sedated, and that it begins to ease up soon.

no luna, I haven't given birth to a 500lb elephant... just the 10+ pain level and that's the only way to describe it.

Thinking of you Linda, and hope you start feeling relief very very soon. Hugs.

Ands thanks for the updates Stasia and Chèli.

Oh! A bone fragment! This level-10 recover is making even more sense now. Recovering from any surgery involving bones is level 10. The good news is, recovering is possible and the better news is, level 10 is normally temporary after it. May it be so. Now, please, Universe.

Amen.

My prayers are with you, Linda, for your recovery.

Thanks so much for the updates, Chéli and Stasia. Praying for her recovery and for her freedom from pain. You are in out thoughts and in our hearts, Linda.

An evening update: I just spoke to Will, who was just home from the hospital. Linda is still in a great deal of pain and they are keeping her heavily sedated so that she can deal with it. The recovery time is going to be a bit longer because of the bone fragments discovered during the surgery.

If anyone is interested, Linda is in the Easton Hospital, Room 290.

Thank you for the updates, ladies. Richard, I think we may need a No More Pain Whammy for her.

Glad you made it through the surgery well, Linda, and that things will be looking up from here on out! (HUGS)

Best wishes for your recovery and a special thanks to those lovely people Cheli and Stas who keep the rest of us updated without troubling Linda and Will too much during this stressful time.

Thanks for the latest info, Stasia.

Linda called me this morning. She is in an incredible pain, so much so that she is physically sick from it. Please continue the good thoughts and prayers for her!

So sorry to hear about the incredible pain Linda is undergoing. But it is good news that she was able to talk to you, Stasia. I hope and pray that she gets relief -- and soon! This must be so hard on Will. So difficult to watch the suffering of someone you love. Get better soon, Dear Linda!!!

Oh, poor Linda, hoping for relief and still in so much pain... :-(
Sending comforting thoughts for her and Will!

Thanks Chèli and Stasia for keeping us updated.

It will most probably be this way for a longer time than usual...bone fragments...fusion...none of this is simple for the body to handle.

Linda darling heart, I so wish there had been another way. You did the correct thing, and this suffering will have an end, but the suffering itself is a trial I wish we who love you could lighten for you.

What Richard said so beautifully!

Stopping by to wish you a speedy recovery. Hope the pain level is down.

Wishing you comfort, Linda... and good, strong healing.

Linda Update

Just finished talking to Will.
Linda was able to get out of bed and toddle to the bathroom and had a meal (her first) but she is still in a great deal of pain. Linda told Will she would never do this again. The doctor gave her the option to go home today if she wanted but she elected to remain in the hospital for another day. Will expects her to come home tomorrow afternoon.

Keep those prayers coming to get that pain level down.

Good for her. I'm glad she is staying another day to be monitored and watched over. Also, she can probably manage to have more in the way of pain meds for one more day. Go hom indeed! sheesh! I'm glad she was able to take a little food...

Home can be a comfort, but I'm glad she's staying in the hospital another day when she's coping with that much pain. Just hoping for the healing to start. I'm taking assurance from Richard's words---hope Linda can too.

Hi Linda! So sorry the resolution is still proving so very painful. Hopefully, you have seen the worst of it and you will start to make some steady gains. Glad to hear you are up and about and eating, even if both in small amounts. I know what level 10 pain is like and I am so sorry you have been that high and for so long. I am having a small talk with the powers that be and telling them enough is enough! ; ) Best, best wishes.

Praying for pain to go away for Linda and peace and love for both Linda and Will. Virtual casseroles arriving later this week!

Linda Update:

I called Will to check on Linda and the lady herself answered the phone! She is home - she was told at the hospital today that if she wanted to go home she could, so she did. She says she is much more comfortable at home. The hospital had already discontinued the morphine and was medicating her with other pain killers that she could dispense at home, so that is where she is. She is doing a bit better this evening, but still is in a lot of pain.

thank you Stas!

No problem, Kath.

WOW! Go Linda! So pleased you can be at home so quickly!

Being home, walking, eating - that all sounds great! I do so hope that the pain is a little less tomorrow morning and less again by tomorrow night and so on! Peace, friend!

Thank you Stasia, and ditto LizzieD!!!!!

Thank you for all the updates, Stas.

Linda : Glad you are back in the comfort of your home. I hope and prayer that your familiar surroundings and Lily-therapy will help you recover quickly. *sending healing vibes and gentle hugs*

Thank goodness you're home now Linda and can heal in familiar surroundings. I think you've shown time and again your tremendous courage as you face all the adversity of your painful condition. You have my utmost respect and love.

Thanks for the update, Stasia. Linda, I do hope you recover quickly and ditch that damn pain!

Thanks for the updates. I'm glad to hear about all the progress, and I hope the pain diminishes quickly.

Thanks for the update!
At least she is home recovering..

I'm so glad that I stopped to check in! Thanks so much to Stasia, Cheli, for the updates. Linda, I pray that your recovery will go well and that the pain subsides quickly. I am very glad to here that you up and around a little. Take care, my friend.

Oh Linda, so glad to hear you have left the trauma of surgery behind. And it is awful to read of the pain you have been in. I hope (so much) that it drops and drops away til you are in that blissful state that so many of us take for granted- that of being pain-free. Normal. Fully functioning. (i hope this isnt too much to ask of your body)
Being home must help, and maybe having Will read you our messages does too? Much love to you!

WOW! Go Linda! is right! I hope that the pain lessens quickly so the real healing can begin..
Do not do anything you shouldn't! Just be relaxed and heal. Wish I could bring you some soup.......
hugs

Linda Update:

I just got off the phone with Linda a few minutes ago. She is sounding stronger, although obviously still in a great deal of pain. I think being at home was definitely the right decision for her! Now if she would only get some rest. Sleeping is still proving difficult. I told her about all the messages she has and she is overwhelmed by the group's love and support.

Linda - So happy to hear that you are back home; it's always comforting to be surrounded by what you love most and be where you feel comfortable. I am praying that you continue to heal and make progress, and that the pain lessens with each passing moment until it is completely gone. Please take care and know that you are loved.

Lit a candle for you at church today, Linda ... I hope all our combined prayers, thoughts and healing vibes help you in your healing process and you get manage some restful sleep.

Oh wow, so glad I took the time today to check this thread! I'm sorry you are dealing with so much pain Linda! I hope you find relief soon!!

Not sleeping after surgery is not good. Are there meds perhaps not being used...?

Thanks again for the updates, y'all. Linda. *smooch*

I'm also glad I took time on LT today to check on Linda's progress - going home sounds like very good news - but it's so disappointed to learn that the pain level comes down soon so you can rest. You're in my prayers, too, for a positive recovery.

Thinking of you today, Linda -- I hope your pain is diminishing by the minute.

Glad you're home, Linda, and I hope rest comes easier as you get further this side of the operation. We're all thinking of you!

Just checking in...still sending good thoughts your way! Hope you get some sleep soon--that always helps.

Linda, I've been praying for you and hope your pain soon decreases! Glad you're home.

Hope you can get some healing sleep soon.

Hoping today is at least a little better. Surgery is exhausting, I am so sorry that sleep has been elusive. Hope that sorts out quickly, too. cyber hugs

Stopping by for updates (many thanks for those!) and to drop off some more positive, pain-free vibes...

Very much hoping that sleep is starting to come. That horrible, confused, spaced out feeling after a general anaesthetic is awful, especially when you're then drugged up on painkillers, so I really really hope things settle down soon.

Glad you are home though. Nothing like our home comforts to make us feel more normal.

I am so grateful for all of the Linda updates - thank you everyone for keeping us informed.

Thinking of you frequently, dear, and hoping you are resting in greater comfort.

Adding my good thoughts, wishes, and prayers to everyone else's.

It sounds incredibly nasty right now. Hanging in there and waiting for healing to happen is hard--but know it's slowly getting better day by day even if the baby steps toward it seem to be coming much too slowly right now.

I can almost see sweet Lilly concentrating her loving enrgy from the foot of your bed.

Thanks everyone for the updates.

Linda Update

Just talked to Linda. She had returned to the hospital in the wee hours of the morning because the medication that she was taking was not cutting the pain and she just couldn't bear it any longer. The emergency room gave her some shots and new meds to take home. She sounded a bit better than last I talked to her yesterday, so these meds seem to be an improvement. She seemed more aware (not as druggie) and even said she'd call me back after dinner. Let's all pray that these pills are going to do the trick.

Thanks for the update. So glad she went back to the hospital to get better meds instead of just trying to tough it out. Praying that the new meds do the trick.

Oh, I do hope the new meds are effective! Poor Linda!

What a struggle, Linda. Thank goodness for better pain med's...I hope this is all soon a distant memory.

I was just going to share the e-mail that I received from Linda earlier today, but I see Cheli has already taken care of the update. Here's hoping the new meds kick in quickly!

Thanks, Cheli and Stasia. Bless Linda!

Linda, I hope each new day finds your pain diminishing and you feeling better.

Thanks so much for the updates!

Thanks for the updates!

Sending prayers of healing and strength to both Linda and Will. As hard as it is to have surgery, it is so hard to be the one watching their love one in pain.

It's always a problem to manage post-surgical pain from bone surgery. Always. ***smooch*** for my dear Linda for better management from here on.

What Carrie said.....I am so sorry that you had such a rough night Linda ..

Adding my prayers and hopes that the new meds will be an improvement on the previous ones.

A long night by the sounds of it Linda.
I shudder to think how long it felt for you.
Heres to extra meds nailing the pain for now. Deal with tomorrow later.
((((hugs))))

I hope this new medication will help with the pain Linda~

Hoping you get some pain free days very soon!!

Hello Linda,

from myself as well, get well soon.

Warning:
The Surgeon General
has determined...
that illness
is bad for your health!

Get Well Soon

Of course I'm sending prayers and gentle healing hugs your way along with the rest of my family. They remember your kind words during my surgery and at the passing of our beloved matriarch. But I wanted to pass along how glad I am that little Lilly is there for you. I have experienced the devoted love of my puppers after my surgeries and during bouts of pain from my trouble spots over the past several years. They always seem to know that they have to be very gentle getting on and off the bed, even if they are the most awkward beasts normally. My Darla will manage to step on any foot in the same room with her, repeatedly and yet climb, one big old paw after the other onto the couch, to curl up next to me without stirring up any discomfort whatsoever on my part. And my big male, Remy, before attempting to get his 100 lb frame onto my couch or bed will circle the area sniffing as if to find the approach of least resistance for him and least upheaval for me. And they look so sheepish if they disturb me in any way. Ears tucked back, big eyes rolling, whites showing, somehow managing to have more wrinkles on their faces than usual. And little Lyla, the first acquisition, the one who started the pack and our love for American Bulldogs, will stay by my side(or whoever is not feeling well)literally for hours without a bathroom, water or food break. Then there's Rae, our golden girl, who's abundantly wrinkly face looks so sad, so very sad, that it brings a smile to my face and a chuckle, after which she circles several times,finally curling into the smallest ball she can achieve for a 60 lb puppy. I must'nt forget my 2 mini-dachsunds, Boston and Kaia, who wade through the big guys and manage to get closest to us, threatening with claw and fang, lest they not be allowed to care for and comfort their people, who need them. Watching them set the Bulldogs straight is so funny, it is hard to focus completely on our own discomfort. You are better off with just one, I'm sure, but I have no question that little Lilly is a great comfort to you, and her animal intuition perceives your need for comforting and nurturing right now. Let her nuzzle up to you because they have a great capacity for healing. Stroke her if you can or just lay your hand on her and let it come through her into you. What you are feeling is unconditional love and there is no better medicine:-)

I just wanted to drop by again and let you know that you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers, Linda.

Hi, Linda. Good to know you are at home again. Hope you're feeling better very soon.

Thanks so much for the updates. Linda, I very much hope that the new meds lessen your pain level and help you to sleep. Gentle hugs and much love.

Thinking of you Linda, and wishing you freedom from pain. Praying for your continued healing and that the new meds aid in that process. Sending our love and encouragement.

Linda - You are so loved by so many on this site; all the messages of support and best wishes demonstrate this on a daily basis and I have experienced your warmth and thoughtfulness personally during my short time amongst you all in this wonderful group.
Get well soon dear lady. x
xxxx also to Stasia and Cheli for their updates on your progress.

Thanks for all the updates! Prayers are being sent. Love and support continually surround you. Hopefully the pain will ease with coming days and all you feel is how much this community appreciates you, Linda!

Linda, you have never left my thoughts and prayers although I have been so busy with company this past weekend I didn't get an opportunity to get online and read all the updates until today. I am so glad you are home from the hospital and my prayers are coming your way along with healing energy. I hope you recover quickly and that pain goes away quickly too. Gentle ((((hugs))))..

Linda, just dropping by to send my best wishes.

Update? I'm getting a little antsy here. Cheli? Stasia?
We care about you a lot, dear Linda!

Also dropping in to see if there is any news and to send my love and prayers for relief of pain.

Leaving a *smooch*

I have been unable to get hold of either Will or Linda today or yesterday, although Linda and I did play phone tag last night. I am hopeful that this means she is resting!!

If I have any updates to post, I will let everyone know.

Just wanted to let you know that I still have you in my prayers Linda. Hope the healing is well underway and you will soon be pain free.

I so hope that Linda is resting somewhat comfortably and is experiencing less pain. I am sending thoughts of peace, calm and tranquility.

Fingers crossed things are going much much better, and Linda is resting well.

I talked to Linda yesterday, just before lunch. She sounded better to me so that must mean that the new meds are helping. She was still in pain though, so keep the prayers coming. I try not to call too early in case she's sleeping.

Thanks so much for the update! More prayers on the way. Sending you healing thoughts.

Hi To All!

I am overwhelmed by the gentle, loving, kind outreach!

Interestingly, when I experience nastiness I don't cry, but when I experience genuine love, and kindness, the tears fall.

I'm weary, sore and in a lot of pain.

The new medications help.

Basically, I'm sleeping the days away. Nights are more difficult because of increased pain, but overall, I'm doing much better.

Thanks again to all.

Much Love

It's wonderful to hear from you! I'm glad that the new medications are helping, and I can only hope that the pain continues to decrease.

It's great to hear from you. sorry to see you are still in pain but I'm glad that the new medications are helping
Get some rest. We will be here when you feel better

HI, Linda. I've been reading along with all the other wellwishers, wishing you well and pain free every minute.

The nights can be so long when you are hurting. Here's hoping your pain diminishes each day - and night - until it is a thing of the past. Thank you for taking the time and effort to reassure us, Linda. Sending much love right back to you along with healing wishes.

Ah, Linda...it's good to hear that you can feel the progress, slow as it may be. My husband and I spent the day in Jim Thorpe (Mauch Chunk) yesterday, and toured Asa Packer's mansion, so I was thinking of you a good deal. (For Linda's non-Pennsylvanian friends, Asa Packer was the "Vanderbilt" of the Lehigh Valley, a railroad magnate and the founder of Lehigh University, a place near and dear (?) to her heart.)

Linda, it's very good to hear from you and to know that there has been some improvement - even if it's not as much as we all would wish for you. Continue to rest and heal and soak up all the positive energy, good wishes, and prayers that are continually being sent your way from all of us.

Wonderful to see you here! I'm glad to hear that there is a little relief, whatever source is immaterial, and that you are resting up. Lots of healing coming your way, from all around the world - a true testament to the wonderful person you are!

Lots of LOVE to you!!!!!

Linda - Hoe incredibly thoughtful of you to check in here to reassure us about your recovery! I am praying for you and wishing for you only good things, number one among those being freedom from pain. Please take special care of yourself and don't push too hard. Very gentle hugs to you, dear friend.

Good to hear from you, Linda. Sounds like progress, although I join everyone in hoping your pain diminishes sooner rather than later. We're all thinking of you.

*good painfree nights for Linda*WHAMMY*

Improvement's on the way, Linda, and so glad you came by!

Dear Linda, please don't hurt yourself writing here! That said - THANK YOU FOR LETTING US HEAR FROM YOU DIRECTLY!!!!
You know our prayers continue for your improvement every single hour. My day is better now because yours has improved a bit.

Glad to hear there's been some improvement, and best wishes and prayers for even more, Linda!

You are a such a trooper Linda! Thanks for letting us know that you are okay. Praying that the pain goes away sooner rather than later and in the meantime, here's to hoping that it's at least tolerable. You are in our thoughts, my friend!

Linda, sending you much love and healing vibes.

Take care of yourself.

Stopping by to add to the thoughts and love heading your way!! (((((linda)))))

Linda, good seeing a post from you my dear. I am still praying for speedy recovery and sending healing energy and lots of love your way. I hope your days and nights will be pain free in the very near future. I am happy to hear that the new meds are helping to some extent. Take care my dear.

Hi Linda,
Hoping the worst is all behind you and each day/night is getting better - even if only in small increments. Your body has been traumatized by surgery and needs a lot of rest. So, I am glad to hear you are doing a lot of sleeping. Don't worry - you'll be up and at 'em before long.
Sending healing hugs and prayers...

Dear Linda, it was good to see a post from you, though I'm sorry to hear that the nights are long and painful. I'm continuing to pray for your relief from pain & healing from the surgery. I hope you can continue to rest and see steady progress every day.

How kind of you to check in.. I hope that means that you were feeling a little better? And I hope that you feel better every day now. I also wish you some deep sweet sleep.. crossing crossables for that...

Linda - Adding my thoughts of healing to all of the others. Praying for an end to the pain.

Linda- thinking of you and sending healing thoughts your way!

Here's hoping every hour brings you closer to being pain-free and fully-healed!

It's great to hear from you directly, Linda. I'm glad to hear that you're starting to get some relief from pain, and I hope that you continue to improve.

Woot! A Linda sighting!!

Oh gosh, Linda. I'm also hoping that the pain becomes more bearable over the coming days. Thinking of you and crossing fingers.

Hi Linda, I am praying that the pain subsides with time, best wishes to you and your husband.

just a fly by wave :)

>223 alcottacre: lol, Indeed Stasia! :)

Hi Linda, glad to see you checking in on us, and letting us know your progress. I guess it is a long slow process for you. Take each day as it comes.

I'm glad to hear that you are feeling a bit better-
Hope you will feel better sooner rather than later though~

I just got off the phone with Linda. She is still taking a lot of pain killers and sleeping through much of the day, but she sounds stronger than she did even just a couple of days ago. I told her to take good care of herself!

Thanks, Stasia! Glad to hear about any improvement at all!!!

It's all in a ball and rolling towards you, Linda!

Two thumbs up for report from Stas, and for welbeing ball tossed by rd.

Healing thoughts and prayers to you Linda! I'm glad to hear each day is getting a little better.

Hugs and kisses and happy thoughts to you, My Friend!

So good to hear that the healing has started and you're starting to feel better Linda. Keep up the good work.

Linda, I'm so glad to see you were at least well enough to give us news in person. You're a brave lady and I dearly hope that all that pain will go away, and soon. If we all had the power to make it go away, you wouldn't have suffered for a single minute, but short of that, I hope all this loving support you've been getting provides some kind of relief. Gentle hugs to you my dear.

Keep healing, dear girl. And thanks to Stasia for the updates!

Very nice to hear that you are feeling better, keep going . All the best wishes and thoughts your way.

So glad that you're starting to feel better. Hoping and praying for further improvement, quickly!

It's great to hear from you, Linda! And that you are on the mend. Very gentle hug!

Checking in and glad to find that you are feeling a little better.

I've held off telling you about a co-worker's husband who had a somewhat similar surgery because sometimes those stories are just annoying and don't really relate. He had broken several vertebrae in his neck in a fall while skiing, but as they didn't have health insurance, he 'tough guyed' it out and didn't go to the ER. Several years later, he had to have several vertebrae in his neck fused and bone fragments and calcifications removed. It was brutal after the surgery, but it **did** get better and he is now back on his motorcycle.

I am so sorry about your pain. I am hoping it gets better soon! You may have no desire for a motorcycle (but hey! maybe you will! heehee) but in my mind's eye I see you dancing at Christmas.

in my mind's eye I see you dancing at Christmas.

What a lovely image! I wish that for you, too, Linda!

Trust that you are having a pain reduced and relaxing weekend. x

Checking in... hope you are well..

Hope you're healing and doing a bit better, Linda.

*smooch* for a steady recovery!

Dancing at Christmas sounds like a wonderful, miraculous goal! For today and tomorrow, I'm hoping for less pain.

Checking in on you! Glad to see the updates and the personal post from you. I hope that things continue to improve and that you get a handle on the pain level ASAP. That can be more wearing than anything. Gentle hugs.

Checking in.. hope you are feeling better-

Hi, Linda! I hope that you continue to improve on a daily basis.

Dear Linda, lovely to read an update from your own self as well as the regular reports from other kind friends, and I'm glad to hear there is a little improvement and you are getting some rest. I will continue to pray for you, and hope that your recovery will continue and preferably speed up, certainly that your pain levels will come down as soon as possible. Sending much love your way.

Checking in on you today, lovey!

Checking in briefly. Energy level is low. I had another outpatient stint at the hospital from 2:30 a.m. - 10:30 this morning.

Some of the medications are giving me nightmares, difficulty walking and experiencing slurred speech. I slept almost all day Sunday. My body seems to need a lot of sleep.

Thanks to all of you and to Will, I am pulling through this rough patch. I deeply appreciate your kindness! It means a lot!

Sleep is healing, embrace it... at some point it will pass :) Sorry it is such a rough road :(

Of course your body needs a lot of sleep...look what's been done to it. It's the best thing you can do for yourself. If only the nightmares could be banished so it would be truly restful. My fervent wish for you tonight is "Sweet Dreams"!!!!

To echo Kath, sleep as much as you can! You need it, darling, and here's hoping you will wake up feeling markedly better in the near future! *smooch*

What Kath said. I am also wishing and praying for "Sweet Dreams" for you.

I managed to read some books these last few weeks. I'll simply list them and review them when I have energy

Oh goody, you're back to reading. Just what the doctor ordered! Now if you can just get rid of the medicine that is giving you those nightmares. I hope you have Sweet Dreams tonight, Linda.

You love YA literature Linda. Thats great you can use reading as a distraction (sometimes)
How terrible about the nightmares, as if you need anything else! Dancing at Christmas is a lovely image to hold on to, I hope you are. And for now, keep at it, sleep is good, keep resting and healing.

How wonderful that you're reading Linda. Hopefully it takes your mind off the pain at least a little bit.

Goodness you are reading despite the narcotics!! Now I know you are a committed reader because it is mighty hard to keep the eyelids open when you are on that stuff! Sorry about the nightmares. Hope they find a better med. I had some doozies--not nice at all. Good luck! And sleep all you can.

YAY! A Linda sighting! *smooch* for better rest, happier dreams, and no more narcotics in your very near future.

Rest easy, Linda! I'm glad you can get some reading in while you recover.

Reading and sleeping! If the doctor didn't order these, he should have! I hope that new meds or fewer meds are helping with the side effects. Linda, accept your body's need for you to take it slow!!!!! I think that you're doing a remarkable job of coming back; give yourself some slack!!!!!
(And notice that we love you!)

Linda, so good to hear from you. I'll be thinking of you and praying that the reading and sleeping helps your body heal.

Sleeping is the best thing for your body, but I'm so sorry to hear about the nightmares. I hope that you are able to reduce the painkillers soon so that you get restful sleep instead of confused and drug-muddled. It's an awful feeling.

But above all, give yourself time. It's a huge thing to be healing from.

So good to hear from you, Linda! Everyday I send hopes to you that each day is getting better...
Looks like you've been doing some good reading, too!

So good to hear from you and see that you're reading, but please take it easy and get the rest you need. Here's wishing you restorative sleep. Nightmares begone!

Oh good! I'm glad that some reading was possible for you, and hope it was enjoyable? I am also glad to see you visiting around a bit, that is very inspiring and a great relief.. but do not try to do too much! I am hoping that now that you have gotten this far, that each day will bring more and more relief..hang in there Linda!

Goodness you are reading despite the narcotics!!

Depending on the book, narcotics might be required! :) Glad you're dipping back into the book pool.

Oh wow, I can't believe you are managing to read despite all the pain..
Although, I hope good books will make you temporarily forget about your pain..

Hello Linda,
great to hear that you at least can do some reading again. I hope you will continuous to feel better.

*smooch* cause I can

I didn't expect you to be able to read either, Linda. I'm glad you can. That'll help you get through this. Hope everything starts getting easier and smoother for you.

So great to hear from you, Linda, and, it's great that you are able to do some reading. Books are always a great solice. Take care, now.

#254 What Kath said!

Rest - and more rest...
it's part of the process.

Sleeping and reading sounds like a perfect way to pass the time, Linda! Heal soon, and heal well, my friend!