Been Accepted

January 17, 2004

Hi Joyce...

I'm a very happy Dr. Gross patient. I was resurfed by him in July, 03 so I'm

now 6 months and truly could not be happier with the outcome. Actually the

entire process was exceedingly perfect. I think I got scheduled pretty close

to the time I was accepted by Dr. Gross.

I'm sure more Dr. Gross patients will chime in here, but my experience from

admittance to being discharged seemed to go quite well. I was extremely

nervous, as you most likely are, and from the day I got home, I wondered to

myself

why I got so worked up over it, because it went so smooth. There were some

glitches, specific to myself, such as high BP going into surgery and my total

dislike for any pain medication, but those all worked out fine. As for the pain

medication, I know most people say " keep hitting the button, " but I found that

I didn't need to (the very next day) and my recovery seemed to take on a

faster pace. I know I was on some oral pain med, but getting the drip stopped

(and removed!), I was free to roam, which I did.

For me, I was so happy to get up, and crutch to the sink to brush my teeth,

knowing that finally, the surgery was behind me and I was up on my feet again.

Liberating!

To not make it sound like it was a totally cool vacation, there were some

rough times, like trying to get comfortable to sleep once I got home, the blood

thinner shots, (but that only lasted 10 day - whew!). Some funny aches and

pains here and there, but now they are a distant memory. I drove at 3-4 weeks,

not exactly sure. I recall going to Galveston for dinner about 3-4 weeks

post-op and going up stairs with my cane at the restaurant. Used the cane or a

crutch around my (small) apartment probably the first month.

I flew back (by myself) to see Dr. Gross in August, just over 5 weeks post

op, rented a Mustang, drove myself around, handled my suitcase, etc. etc. I

even went to a mall after my appt.

Now, 6 months later, I hardly EVER even think about it.

There are several of Dr. Gross' patients on this board and I'm sure you'll

get reassuring advice and recounts of experiences. Feel free to email with any

specific questions.

7/03

January 17, 2004

Hi, folks. I just found out that I've been accepted by Dr Gross for

the resurfacing procedure. I haven't got a date yet, but I do hope

it's soon (does anyone have any info on approx how long a time it is

with Dr. Gross between acceptance & surgery?) Anyway, the most

remarkable thing is that, while I don't feel overjoyed at the

prospect of surgery and wish I didn't have this condition and didn't

have to have this surgery, I am actually beginning to look forward to

getting this done and getting my life back. It's because I have read

your messages and KNEW that resurfacing was what I wanted. I had

signed up for THR with a local surgeon and then had a meltdown. The

whole thing just felt wrong to me. I'm very grateful for all of you

who take the time to post your stories, share your research, and

extend your own enthusiasm to others. Here's hoping my insurance will

cover this -- or... Well, don't borrow trouble. I'm thrilled that

I'll be having a resurf and that Dr Gross will be the surgeon. Thanks

to everyone. I will be back with more info as I get it. Wish me luck!

Joyce

January 17, 2004

Best of everything, Joyce. You won't regret it! You have much to look forward

to.

Jude