Well today, I had the indoor arena reserved. I invited my favorite kids from 15 years of coaching. Most of them are driving... many were off in the military or couldn't get off work. Even so, we had a nice turn out and had a blast.

I played keeper and played on the field. Although my skills suck after more than 3 years off, I did well... even made a few diving saves. I was able to sprint and work hard on the field. Much of the time I was fighting back the tears. I don't know if everyone knew what a big day this was for me. I have dreamed of this for so long. I really love the kids and the nice families that I've known for so long. It's been so rewarding to have been such a positive influence in their lives. They are like family to me.

Many of the kids know each other only through my soccer activities and haven't seen each other for years. It was great to see them together again.

Last Saturday, I took my son (19) to the drop zone. He did his first skydive. He thought it was his going to be his only skydive... something to do once, but he really liked it and talks about it all the time. After jumping, we headed out to Big Rock an Lake Perris. I didn't realize that I'd forgotten everything I'd ever learned about climbing, but we hooked up with some friendly climbers and had a great afternoon on the rock. Man oh man, was I sore the next day. But, it was a good sore from using muscles that I hadn't used in years. Nothing to do with my low back.

It will be a few days before I can update the website... I'll post again when I do.

Oh, yes... a week ago Friday, I played tennis with a woman who has a 2-level ProDisc implant. Her surgery was last July and she is now returning to competitive tennis. I had been afraid to serve, but she convinced me that it's in my head. I was able to serve 2 sets with no problems. We were joined for lunch by another 2-level ProDisc patient. We all agreed that it's like being on vacation, being able to enjoy our lives again. Interestingly enough, we all said that we had quit listening to music during our ordeals, but had started again after our surgeries.

I hope you are not all getting tired of hearing about how great I'm doing. Today was a very big day for me. This forum kept me alive. When I really needed help, you guys were there for me. I have made some very special friends here. No matter how great our friends and family are, there are so few who understand what we face.... I can't express how much you all have meant to me.

Pain free vibes out in all directions! Love,

Mark

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See my new website:

http://home.earthlink.net/~mmglobal1/index.html

*** L4-5 and L5-S1 Disc Replacement (SB Charite III) 9/20/02 by Dr. Zeegers, AlphaKlinik, Munich, Germany ***

2/25/00 Microdiscectomy/laminotomy L4-5, 10x15x7 mm left paracentral protrusion

9/23/00 CANCELED L4-S1 360 fusion CANCELED

9/15/01 emergency microdiscectomy L5-S1, 14x13x10 mm left paracentral protrusion

Both discectomies helped with hip/leg/foot symptoms, but left the underlying back pain. Residual left foot pain and numbness. Lost axial reflex (left ankle).

*** The AlphaKlinik was wonderful. My expectations were high, but the clinic, it's staff, and Dr. Zeegers far exceeded them!!!

Everything you write gives me hope for my own future. The Alphaklinik should have all my films this upcoming week. Barring any major unidentified problems, I should be getting info on what will be done and when I can do it!

I can't wait...

Thanks... If I were a chick I would...

I never get tired of hearing (or seeing pic's of) about your latest post-Charite antics. I'm proud you let me revel in your glory with you

Hugs,
Vic

I am so happy for you. Keep the news coming. It is an inspiration I feel and gives one hope for possibilities.

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((((Hugs)))

I was quite sore yesterday. The late afternoon brought a little low back soreness that gave me a little pause. However, it faded in a couple of hours and by the late evening, I was feeling great again.

I was even considering going out and playing in the men's league this morning. I decided that discretion was the better part of valor and elected not to play when I was already sore and tight.

Yesterday, I learned that I can play soccer again. I also learned how demanding it is and I will condition some more before I play in a more competative environment.

I keep getting all teary whenever I tell anyone how awesome yesterday was.... What a great day!

Love to all,

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dinkie@mail.com

http://spinielandcentral.homestead.com/Index.html

Anna, I know it's hard for people to relate to, but I am staying inside a comfort zone. While my activities may seem extreme to some, I'm doing them well within my limits. No falling, nothing out of control.

It's funny, because I love this sore feeling. It's a good sore!