- I will be on the Iv antibiotics for 12 weeks. The infectious disease doctor felt I needed this to fully remove the infection. Unfortunately the antibiotic has  removed my sense of taste!  I have frozen a few of my favorite Christmas cookies to have in February when I am done with my Iv antibiotic. 

- My C reactive protein level (measures inflammation) has finally dropped into the normal range. It was in the 30’s before the abscess was removed and now measured .5.  The goal is to keep it in the normal range. 

-I had my 6 week follow up appointment with neurosurgery. All was good. They felt my pain is normal and most likely nerve pain from effects of abscess and surgery. My pain has been decreasing and they hoped by 3 months, might be greatly improved. My wound and screw placement were great. They are now allowing me to start bending, twisting and adding the amount of weight I can pick up in slow increments over time. They ordered PT, which I will start in January. I’m excited to start working on getting stronger and having more flexibility in my back and hip. 

I continue to be thankful for all of your prayers and support. I so appreciate the cards, calls, messages, flowers and meals that have been delivered. I ask that you continue to pray for my complete recovery.