My doctor sent me to have a full body sonogram, and they found a 6.5 aneurysm on my abdominal aorta. I was 72 at the time. The surgeon said I should under go surgery within the month. Needless to say I was scared. When I went to the hospital to be prepped the anesthesiologist asked if I wanted an epidural and I told her no, then she said if she was talking to a family member or loved one she would advise them to have it, so I said yes. I am so glad I decided to have it done. It made all the difference after surgery. I was wide awake after surgery with no pain and recovered quickly and was home 4 days later. My daughter stayed with me for two weeks afterward to cook for me and to make sure I got up and walked around the house for exercise. It has now been over three years. During my three year check up with a CAT scan the doctor said everything looked great and he would see again in another three years. Listen to your doctor and know everything will be ok. Wishing you the best and try not to worry, I did and it was all for naught.