Thanks Noah,
I am told that I am not a "prime candidate" due to my age (51) and blood
pressure. So putting it off can only increase my risk. As much pain as I
am in lately, any relief will be a blessing.

Besides, its difficult to swab the deck and do other general maintenance
to the boats in this condition. hehe

Regards,

Capt. Frank

noah wrote:

On Wed, 15 Oct 2003 00:59:32 GMT, "Capt. Frank Hopkins"
wrote:


Today the doctor informed me I have a 2 herinated discs in my lower
back. They are badly damaged and the doctor surgery is my only viable
option. (this is the third opinion)

Has anyone in the group had a back operation? If so, I would like to
hear about your experience(s), both good and bad.

Thanks,

Capt. Frank


Capt. Frank,

I've been facing the same option for about 10 years now. I've held
off for two reasons:

1.) the normal layup is about 6 weeks. No cheating is allowed. If
you don't follow Dr.'s orders, the warranty is invalid.
2.) I've heard (about 50/50) both success stories, and failure
stories. A good friend had a ruptured disk removed, and was in agony
for weeks. He underwent a second surgery, and came out of it with no
problems, a "new man". The surgeoen you choose is "everything".

I'll have it done one of these days but, being a crumudgeon, I'd
rather bitch about it than have surgery. )

Good luck to you.
...carry on.
noah

To email me, please remove the "FISH" from the net.