appointment with OSS

[Mark N]

Saw my temp. PCP today and I scheduled my OSS appointment to coincide with the next PCP appointment. I am glad the PCP isn't my regular doctor because in June after my thoracic attack she ordered an MRI for me but insurance didn't okay it until two days after it was scheduled so I had to cancel. I saw her in July and wanted my thoracic spine to be included and for some reason she was backing off the MRI delaying a decision until Sept [our next appointment]. I saw her today because of my latest thoracic attack and she didn't want to schedule the MRI but instead wanted my OSS to decide what to do. She was concerned about my symptoms and my lack of strength in my right hand [I can't lift my laptop any more with my right hand]. I think her reluctance was thinking it would delay me seeing my OSS. I told her no problem I could make an appointment to see him but she thought it would take a long time. I told her 2 to 3 weeks is usual. I went out in the parking lot after leaving her office and call Dr Coscia [my OSS] and I have an appointment for Sept 7 so I can tie in in with my next PCP appointment to check my testosterone and cholesterol. She did chastize me about not going to the ER with the last thoracic attack but I told her it takes more than not walking for a day or two to get me to the ER, otherwise I would be going every other week.

For those that were concerned and pushed me to get moving thank you for the push. I tend to minimize my spinal troubles and need to be pushed now and then to see my OSS.

[lucidmaster]

Mark, I don't think there is a symbol on this e-forum for a hand giving a "push", but given you are having trouble lifting your laptop, below is a rather strong push you are receiving from me about the need to see your OSS--or is it a kick in the butt? :)

------------------>(

[Mark N]

Ozgur, with me it is more like the mule and a 2X4 smack him in the head to get his attention and then he will listen. I just come from the old fashion tough guy world and it isn't macho just a credo to live by in my family. It is hard to get past that now that I am disabled but I am learning. Thanks for the push and yes not being able to pick up my laptop got my attention even though the horrendous pain should have done it a month earlier.

[Kathi49]

Mark,

I am glad you got the appointment and definitely agree with Lucidmaster! :)

[Gimpy]

Mark - That's how I knew the 2nd time that my cervical was in trouble. Well, the first time too but it progressed to where I couldn't even lift a cup of coffee. I knew immediately the 2nd time when I went to pick up a drill and I couldn't do it. I got in to the dr. asap, did a rush MRI and had surgery within 2 weeks. Remember, the longer the delay the greater the chance you won't get that strength back. Maybe you need to call your OSS and tell them you need to get in sooner than Sept. Time really is of the essence.

Gimpy

[Mark N]

Thanks Kathi and yes it is a bit of an indicator.

Gimpy, I will see what I can do but he is one of the top in the Midwest [country as far as I am concerned] and there just won't be many chances. Sept 6th was the earliest opening but I may explain the problem and see what they say.

[debhun]

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>( all the way too the office. Hope you get treated soon.
Deb

[BrokenBladder]

Mark I'm glad that our "push" got you to get moving on this. Sometimes it's easy to just wait and think everything will be okay, BUT this isn't something to mess around with.
Oh and if I remember correctly you gave me a gentle push when I needed it and it may have saved my life.:)

[Mark N]

Deb and Lisa, thanks for the gentle pushes and I promise to follow through. Lisa, you never know when a push will save my life one day:) .