If you’ve been around me lately, you’ve witnessed the increased weakness in my legs. My left leg has become so numb from neuropathy, it feels like I’m dragging around dead weight. I can hardly move my left foot, and can’t even feel when it hits the ground. Getting shoes on is almost impossible … which is sad … because I have an awesome collection of shoes … most of which I can’t even get on my foot. My right leg, up until a couple weeks ago, has been immune to the nerve damage. But my foot and part of my lower leg have finally succumbed. I no longer walk long distances without someone else’s help, or at least near a wall to keep me balanced. It’s incredibly frustrating not to be able to even walk without help.
On top of all this, the pain in my lower back has been increasing exponentially. I had a chance to talk to a doctor last week who actually showed me my MRI and CT Scan pictures. I have a bunch of fractures in my lower back, and my L5 vertebrae has succumbed to the compression fracture and is half the size it should be. Just sitting can cause significant pain, let alone walking. I can usually find relief while sleeping, probably due to the considerable amount of pain meds … and the fact that I’m asleep.
I write all this not only to update you, but also to give you background on why I’m going in for minor surgery tomorrow. The doctor will perform three procedures while I’m under anesthesia. First, they will pinpoint a few remaining cancer cells and kill them with a procedure I can’t pronounce. Then they fill the weakened vertebrae with cement, to strengthen it and keep it from any further collapse. Those who’ve undergone this procedure almost all experience full pain relief. And I’ve got to admit, there is nothing in the world I want more right now than pain relief. The third procedure will deal with the nerves and hopefully give me some significant relief from the neuropathy. Otherwise, I may find myself wheelchair-bound. Not fun.
It’s crazy how quickly some of these nuisances have progressed over the past few weeks. But I am extremely hopeful that the procedures I’m having done tomorrow will help considerably. If you’re the praying sort, please pray for complete pain relief, and significant relief of the neuropathy. I may have some physical therapy to do to get my strength back, but I am more than willing to do that … if we can just get rid of the numbness!
I’ll check back in a few days from now and let you know how everything went. In the meantime, thank you so much for your prayers! Here’s a few recent pictures, to remind me (all of us, really) of the many blessings in my life, despite the difficult days.
My three beauties. They have their moments, of course, but mostly bring laughter and joy into this mama’s heart.
My handsome, patient, and loving husband. He is absolutely living up to his vows of loving me through sickness and in health. He is truly my champion.
Lord, be with Heidi as she undergoes this surgery. Guide the doctor:s hands and let all 3 procedures be successful. I pray for complete relief from the pain and feeling to return in her legs and feet. Let your love, peace, strength and comfort surround Heidi and her family. In the powerful and healing name of Jesus amen. Jan Skaggs
Praying for you, my sweet friend!! Xo
Saying a prayer for you right this minute. You are such a strong woman. It is very clear you rely on your savior for strength. God bless you.
Dear Heidi,
I just got to know you a little through your blog and beautiful writing. I pray that your surgeries are successful and will provide relief from the pain and numbness you are experiencing. I also pray that all remaining cancer cells are found and removed. I pray for a complete and miraculous healing, both physically and emotionally. You are a testimony of God’s love and I pray His healing power will be manifested in you.
I also pray that throughout all this, you and your family will experience His constant peace and His constant love.
You are strong, you are courageous, and you are beautiful.
Praying and rooting for you!
Amen…
If the Lord were to make a real “Super Woman”, I do believe she’d wear Heidi’s face!
She inspires so many with her faith, stamina, and huge smiles in the midst of her pain.
I, too, am praying and cheering her on!
((Hugs))
Dani
Heidi
Jody, John and I will be praying for you as you go through the procedures tomorrow. God bless you, strengthen and continue to encourage you with His love and care.
Joel Tiefel
Praying for your pain relief and strength. Praying for numbness to be gone and a complete miracle from our Lord, our healer. Keep inspiring others through your trials. God is bigger than all of them. Love in Christ