I meant to post this update last night when Val and I got home from getting our haircuts. Unfortunately, a copper pipe bringing hot water from the water heater sprung a leak and I had to deal with that mess instead. Val and I got baths, brushed teeth and took meds and then turned the water off to the house entirely. 

Mom will need to continue wearing her neck brace until at least the end of September. It's healing nicely but she's not ready to ditch it altogether. 

After that appointment, Mom and Dad met with Dr. Blake to discuss the hernia surgery. They have not decided to schedule it just yet because of the inherent risks with anesthesia. Should something go wrong during the procedure with the anesthesia, the alternate method is to go in at the neck. Dr. Blake wants to to collaborate with Dr. Hamilton before doing anything. He's off the rest of the week, but when he returns next week, he will contact Dr. Hamilton and discuss. Dad will follow up with Dr. Blake midweek to get the next steps/instructions.

In the meantime, Mom was taught how to push the hernia back in should it happen again. My stomach is turning a little just visualizing this. 

I'll post more again when we have news to share. Thank you for your continued prayers.