I am due to go into hospital on 1st August for a discectomy and two decompressions on my spine. After two years of leg pains, then bilateral sciatica, then numbness and cramps, the hospital decided that I needed this operation. I have had four appointments with the Pre-Operative Clinic (POC), but they kept prevaricating, and telling me I would not be able to have the operation, as the risks were too high with my damaged heart (4 MI, 3 since 4xCABG in 1992). I told them that the pain was actually worse than a heart attack, and, if they continued with this attitude, I would take further steps (not many-too painful!). On June 4th, the surgeon marked me as urgent, as two MRI scans, 3 months apart, had shown that the situation was deteriorating rapidly. POC still said no. I spoke to the surgeon's secretary, who was very helpful, and managed to get me seen, in POC, by an anaesthetist. He said it must happen soon. As the only pain-killers I can take are morphine derivatives, and I am needing increasing doses, I was worried that I may become dependent on them. The POC pharmacist instructed me to stop taking aspirin ten days before the operation. No problem. He then told me to stop taking Imatinib at the same time. I argued strongly that this was not possible, and that he should consult my haematologist, fortunately at the same hospital trust. POC washed their hands of me. I was about to doubt the validity of the pharmacist's parents' marriage, but, he did as he was requested, and agreed that I would not stop the Glivec. So, I am first on the list on Saturday week, and I trust the I will get through this, and that it will work. They have a bed in HDU for me after the operation, so maybe I will get good after-care. Your prayers will be appreciated. Regards
