Hi every art lover,

Yesterday, I finally had the appointment with the rheumatogist I have been waiting months to see. It seems the pain I have in my thumbs to my wrists and my lower spine are osteoarthritus, which I knew, but it is all the way to my neck, getting worse and will continue to.

 She sent me to physical therapy for my hands, which I haven't gone to yet, but will probably next week.

Many, many x-rays showed serious spine and neck damage, and my hands are so bad she just looked and didn't have to x-ray. I have an MRI scheduled (love that claustrophobic feeling)for next week.

I heard her say "surgery" on my hands and back, and told her I would never have surgery. "When you have to get around in a wheelchair you will," she said, writing out a script for an anti-inflammatory steroid. (Hi Roger.)

I also had a bone density test which showed I have osteoporosis. More drugs.

I was sending out invitations to the "Chairs for Charity" party at my gallery with a photo on one side of me creating the "throne" and I started to cry.

Who will take care of my husband if I have any operation at all? I guess that settles it. No operations!

Back to work tomorrow mailing postcards and working on three pictures to enter in a juried show in NYC.

My husband, buddha-like, just takes it all in.

live in the light,

Lisabeth

MEMBERS COMMENTS VIEWING 1 - 2 OUT OF 2 COMMENTS From: DS_Ray 08/16/2008 11:11:50 I had back surgery 18 years ago and it was absolutely the best thing I ever did. I still have numbness in one leg because I was stupid and resisted surgery until I damaged my body permanently. I might also note I was on narcotic pain killers and it never, ever touched the pain. My family was ready to disown me because I was such a unhappy person. Do what you want, just know what you're doing. From: flstormz 08/16/2008 08:20:18 Why wouldn't you have surgery? Can't you have/hire someone come to care for your husband during your recovery time?