As the surgery date gets closer the mixed emotions are getting more intense.  On one hand I look forward to having this done and moving on to healing and on the other hand the unknown of what the recovery part will entail is a bit scary. I am staying positive and know that after all the healing the feeling on my right side will come back and distinguishing hot from cold will return.  I have been reading and re-reading a letter that a member from the Chiari Malformation support group posted. It is titled Letter to Brain and states to take time in recuperating. Though the body may be ready to do things, the brain may be slower. "Be gentle and take care of me."  It is a real eye opener as we sometimes don't realize that what we want to do is not necessarily the right thing for our body.  I have faith in God and faith in the neurosurgeon and know all will go well.