A Positive Update!

Richard visited with the local neaurosurgeon this morning and left feeling very encouraged. After spending at least a half hour with Dr. Fox, it was a relief to know that the dr. did his homework and knew much about Rich's medical history and recent injury. He showed Rich all of the MRI pictures and explained them in detail. Ok, here's the deal. Rich injured his back about a month ago, which resulted in a significantly herniated disc in his lower back and a few torn ligaments. The trauma of the injury landed him a week in the hospital where he was treated for pain and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory steroid did wonders for the nerve that was badly injured, so today Rich can tell you that he feels pretty good. Dr. Fox told him to resume normal activity, with mild to moderate lifting, and if he can exist without significant pain, he will not have to have surgery. This is great news! A complete answer to prayer, I believe. On the other hand, if Richard does experience significant pain after several weeks of resuming normal activity, then Dr. Fox will revisit the possibility of fusing his lower spine. Either way, Rich is on his way to living pain free. And to that, I truly say "Thank you, Lord."