7.11.2011

Feeling 90.

Well, quite an appt. today. I had a consult w/ my surgeon. I thought it would go like this:
"Um...well, we're not sure what's going on, so let's just get an MRI. We'll go from there."

Instead, it went like this:
"Well, I don't think you reherniated your disc. Since you're now having problems in your right leg also w/ pain, weakness, and numbness, then it's probably just your bad disc. That disc was pretty shot. I don't really recommend a fusion right now b/c you're so young and it will wear onto the adjacent discs, which mean more fusions down the road. So probably a disc replacement. Which can be $35,000-$45,ooo and usually not covered by insurance. Let's get an MRI and see if that's for sure what's going on."

Okay. Gulp. What am I, 90? A disc replacement? I'm falling apart here. Hobbling around, in pain most of the time. Jason and I are praying for wisdom. Either way, this will be challenging financially and physically. Having to pay for childcare and housekeeping, hospital bills, etc. One step at a time...

3 comments:

Jill Gries said...

Oh Leigh...I am so sorry! I know it can't be fun. I feel so bad for you! I will pray that things get better for you! Keep your head held high and know it is ok to cry! You are loved by many.

sara luke said...

I so badly wish I lived closer and could help you. Know that I'm praying, though.

I don't get why insurance wouldn't cover it. Would you like me to call and have a word with them? I got an A in my persuasion class, you know.

MY LIFE: said...

Thanks Jill. Also, Sara- I guess our insurance WILL cover it, if the dr. writes a letter of medical necessity. (which he will) I still have some questions before going through w/ the surgery, though...--Leigh