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@marcia_pez

Hello, my name is Marcia and I am 66 years old. I am facing the possibility of spinal fusion surgery because I have chronic pain and stiffness. My previous MRI of a few years ago showed spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis. Another MRI scheduled for Jan 17 because I am getting progressively worse and have been told that I am a candidate for surgery. I am a caregiver for my husband who just went through a year of hell with CHF, defibrillator/pacemaker implant, and three surgeries for bladder cancer, and subsequent chemo. I'm just not sure what to do about surgery for myself, given his weakened condition and high anxiety. I know that assisting him with bathing and dressing, etc., does not help my back, nor does cleaning the house or even walking through a grocery store. Does anyone have any suggestions? I fear losing more mobility permanently.

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Replies to "Hello, my name is Marcia and I am 66 years old. I am facing the possibility..."

Hello @marcia_pez, welcome to Connect. Thank you for sharing a bit about yourself and your concerns regarding spinal stenosis and fusion. It sounds like you are faced with a difficult decision regarding your own health and the fact that you are a caregiver for your husband.

Here are some discussions in Connect that you may find relevant to your topics:
- New to Chronic Pain Discussion Board, http://mayocl.in/2ifCK1l (includes members with spinal stenosis)
- Searching for Adults living with scoliosis, thoracic stenosis, http://mayocl.in/2jA1y63 (brief but includes a mentor with caregiver experience as well)
- Meet fellow caregivers, introduce yourself, http://mayocl.in/2j1ZGlI

These are just a few places to start that may help you find other members who have or are experiencing things similar to yourself.