Dan’s Story

Site created on May 20, 2021

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Dan has worn many different hats over the years...law enforcement, Army Drill Sergeant, Band of Brothers, High Desert Stampede rodeo boardmember, father, grandpa and husband to name a few. Some of those were harder on his body than others, but they all add up.  He has battled neck and back issues for nearly 30 years.  In the 1990's he had some discs fused in his neck with plates and screws.  In more recent years, he has had multiple surgeries on his lower back to relieve nerve pain and issues.  

He's now facing a major surgery that will fuse additional discs from his neck into his upper back.  The surgery itself will likely last around 3 hours, but that's just the beginning.  He'll spend a few days in the hospital getting the pain under control.  For the next 3 months, he'll be wearing a rigid neck brace any time he's not laying down.  He won't be allowed to bend, lift, twist, push, pull.  If you're visiting this site, you know Dan.  This will not be easy for him...he's good at many things, but sitting still and letting others 'do' does not come naturally to him.  

He has in hand in many groups and projects so he'll be stepping back and letting others take the lead, at least for now.  Thank you to those of you who are picking up as he steps back.  It is much appreciated by both of us.  

Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday May 26th.  I will share updates as I have them, but please feel free to leave him notes any time.  

Newest Update

June 05, 2021

Journal entry by Rebecca Swearingen —

Dan's first follow up with the surgeon's office was yesterday and he got good reports. His initial healing is going well so far. 
He did learn that he's restricted to only being up and around about 5 minutes per hour this first month of healing. No outings allowed at this point so he'll be spending a lot of time just hanging out. It's hard for him to be still so that's going to be a but rough. If all goes well, next month he might be allowed ten minutes at a time. The Dr said that his only job right now is to heal up. 

Since there's shouldn't be much news to share, I doubt I'll post more until there are changes as we go. Thank you all so much for your support and well wishes!
Read More of the journal titled "June 05, 2021"
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