DR. Catinela said that I would probably be in the hospital for a week--that there would be a lot of pain but I would be on a lot of pain killer medicine--he said that there would be a 5-6 recovery period to get me back on my feet, mobile and feeling better--he did say that he would recommend my going to a rehab center for at least 2-3 weeks since I lived alone.

He did say I could look into my insurance and/or the hospital social services about having the rehab done at home but he said it wouldn't be 24/7 and the week or two I would be better off having someone with me.

He pointed out--I think he felt he had to--that there was a 5% chance of something going wrong either during the operation or after. He also said that he wouldn't be offended if I wanted a 2nd or 3rd opinion or if I wanted to talk to some/any of his previous patients.

The doctor asked if I had any questions which I did and he answered them all. He finally said I should go home, think it all over, check with my insurance company and the social services and then all I had to do was call him and let him know when I wanted to do it. (He did say that he would be off for a couple of weeks in August so, of course, I countered with that was when I was thinking of having it done!)

I left his office feeling good, having confidence in him--it is always fear of the unknown and lack of information that causes the problems.

Now I have to get together with Gino, Allen and Jill and see what and when they have plans for in July--I know Allen has been talking about visiting his daughter in the north during July so I will do it after he gets back--if he doesn't go I will aim for July 7 but it will be done in July unless they are all busy and going off somewhere.

By the way he said it would be no problem for Gino and Allen to have access to me and any medical information while I am in the hospital as long as I state, in writing, that's what I want.

As soon as I have a definite date I'll let you know.