[Abby10]

Okay, 2 NOTHING back stories for Nucky -

I had a herniated disc repair back in 1988. It was quite successful but only because it was an easy fix. My surgeon told me his resident could do it but I insisted he do it because I didn't want anyone else messing with my spine. Of course, since I was out during the surgery I have no idea who really did it - duh. Anyway, the only reason I had it done was not because of the pain since I was managing that easily with Motrin (ibuprofen) and not even taking much of it, but I had lost all reflexes on my one side and my primary told me because I was so young the nerve damage would ultimately cripple me. You won't believe how I herniated the disc. I was pregnant with my son and fell down a flight of stairs. Knowing I was pregnant at the time I thought quickly enough to throw myself backwards so I would land (it was really a slam) on my back instead of my stomach.......mothering instincts kicked in real early for me.

Now on the other hand, my husband has had back issues forever. He will not even consider going under the knife. In his mid-30's he was diagnosed with a degenerative spine like that of an 80 year old. Probably from playing football and heavy weight lifting since he was a teen. He has learned to live with it but often times it's not easy. I tell you this, Nucky, because he would be the first to encourage you to get the weight off then work on building up your core and your back muscles to provide support to ease the pain. When we get down there I know he would be happy to talk to you about it and show you what he does to keep himself going. He has learned a lot of different techniques. I have never known him to take so much as a Tylenol. Some days I get frustrated with him because I wish he would, but he's NOTHING but stubborn about not being dependent on meds.