🌀 Mood: Relieved, hopeful, and deeply thankful.

Wow — what a difference a week makes!

I want to begin by thanking my neurosurgeon who performed the kyphoplasty. The procedure itself was a rough experience, but it was absolutely worth it. I also want to thank all of you who prayed for me, sent encouragement, and checked in. I’ve felt carried by that support every step of the way.

Just one week ago, I was barely able to get out of bed without crying out in pain. Every movement — sitting, standing, even breathing — came with sharp, relentless muscle spasms in my lower back. But now, the spasms are gone. That alone feels like a miracle.

I still have some back pain and front rib pain (part of the cancer), but it’s significantly reduced — and I am so thankful. I can now ease myself out of bed without the excruciating ordeal it used to be. I still move carefully, but I’m no longer bracing myself for agony with every shift.

At my post-op appointment, 2 weeks after the procedure, they took x-rays to see how things were healing. Praise report: the cement is exactly where it should be — no leakage at all. That’s a huge relief and very important for stability going forward. And then came the best news of all: I no longer have to wear the back brace. Halleluiah! In the hospital, they told me I’d have to wear the brace for 3-6 months.

I’ve also been cleared to begin walking again — even on hills. That freedom feels like such a gift. My doctor reminded me to take it slow, listen to my body, and gradually work back toward the activity level I used to enjoy. But just the permission to move again — to walk on my own terms — feels like a small kind of victory.

This is a major step forward in decreasing my non-stop pain. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m closer. And for now, that’s enough.

Grateful for today. Hopeful for tomorrow.