I am sorry you're going through all of this. I can't imagine, but I wonder if there is a teaching hospital in your area with a fabulous reputation that you can go to? I have visited multiple doctors about my knee and hip, and few went beyond the "you need knee and hip replacements." In fact, so far, out of maybe 7 doctors I have seen for this (yes, I'm that reluctant), not ONE has gone beyond, "You need surgery, your hip(s) and knee(s) are gone." Sometimes I suppose we just gotta trust the doctor. I know a person who had foot surgery and came down with an infection -- went in for more surgery and is still recovering after months at home. Sometimes these things can't be helped. I wish I could offer you more advice. I used to say to doctors when I first visited them when I was in better health, "I don't like doctors." I've stopped doing that. Because that's not going to make them my 'friend.' Not sure that this helps, but my heart goes out to you...knowing how scared you are -- sometimes though at a certain point we have to make a decision. Again, I am so sorry you're going through this. May you have comfort from above...