I became bionic two years ago today. Approximately two weeks after my patient, long-suffering husband had back surgery, I had HAL (my trusty spinal cord stimulator) implanted. In some ways, I am surprised that it has been two years, but in other ways, it seems much longer ago than that. I re-read my blog from that day and it is amazing how far we have both come since then. My patient, long-suffering husband has very few back issues these days, although he won't be joining the Olympic gymnastics team any time soon. As for me, the 5-6 pain level that "didn't feel too bad" the day of the surgery is now fairly rare, thanks to HAL. While I would say the last month or so has been unusually painful for my foot, it's probably a good idea to go back and read about my pre-implant days every now and then so I have a better frame of reference. Suddenly the last month seems downright pleasant, at least in comparison.
Before I opted out of most of my online RSD/CRPS support groups, one of the things that caused me the most consternation was the number of people who were suffering through symptoms worse than mine because they were terrified of having surgery. As many of you know, I have had plenty of surgeries in the last ten years, and the stimulator implant was one of the easiest. While I know not all surgeries go as well as mine and not everyone gets the degree of relief I have gotten from my stimulator, I would have the surgery ten times if it meant feeling like I do now compared to how I felt two years ago.
And it's a good thing I feel that way, because I may have to have the surgery ten times. The battery life on HAL is estimated at 3-5 years. I use HAL at a relatively low level, but I use it 24/7, unlike many other people with stimulators. I hope the technology will continue to improve with time, but I can live with an implant surgery every 3-5 years if necessary. So, while friends are having us over for dinner today to celebrate Labor Day, I will also be celebrating my anniversary. I hope HAL is getting me something nice.
