Fun after "2 Level Pro Disc and Fusion With 4 -DSS Slotted Couplers "

**GregA** · 06-08-2011, 10:04 PM

I don't Know where to ask this question But I think it is a question that we all might think about.

I have had a -2 level Pro Disc L @ L3-4&L4-5 1 year ago today, And had a 6 bolt 4 DSS Slotted coupler Fusion done 3-1-2011 for extra support . I am still Taking dauluded 4mg 5 times a day and still having pain , tons of heat where surgery was done, still lay on ice 3-4 times a day.

Here is where the FUN starts I have 3 boys the oldest 9,and 7 year old twins we are going into summer and I think I want to take them to some of the " local " within 1 1/2 hours away Amusement parks, My wife works so it will be just me and the boys going. What rides do you think I could go on with them or do you think I am just plain stupid to even think of taking them this soon out of my fusion ?

This last year and a half has been the worst time in my and my family's life and I was just hoping to try to bring some joy and happiness to this summer

Greg

**ajj1001** · 06-09-2011, 02:54 AM

no rides apart from the super gentle kiddie try ones. they will have signs up with exclusions and any kind of back condition is there. its a shame but compared to reoperation having to sit out a few rides is by far the best option. any joy or happiness would soon disappear if you ended up needing something doing again. it's hard, I LOVE the big rides but haven't been on one since my two level op.

**Justin** · 06-09-2011, 11:23 AM

Originally Posted by GregA

This last year and a half has been the worst time in my and my family's life and I was just hoping to try to bring some joy and happiness to this summer

Hey Greg. Personally, I wouldn't risk it. You can still have a great time going with your boys, but your quoted text above spells it out--you don't want to return to that "bad" place.

I think your kids will enjoy the day just having you there...enjoy meals, take in the small stuff at the park (rides that are not jerky or change directions quickly, etc.).

Have fun!

**Fuzzy** · 06-13-2011, 01:55 AM

A looks at rides from a safe distance...

With 2 ops, this painlevel and amount of pain meds don't go on the rides as you at least stand a good chance of increasing your pain. Jarring rides, which are most all of them, can't be very good for your spine at this point.

You can still have alot of fun with your kids! Enjoy and try not to think about the pains, that alone can help at times!

**Cindylou** · 06-13-2011, 11:07 AM

Well, I think you got the idea from everyone Greg.....don't do it. You know, sometimes, when we are compensating for our guilt we go to the extreme solutions, like these rides, for instance. You want your boys to have a bang up great summer, by golly! And you and they still can, but you just need to click back the expectations a bit. What about fishing? Have you ever tried fishing with your boys? There's a relatively gentle sport you could all participate in. And you don't have to have a boat to do it either. Just a thought. Do you have a local zoo you can support? A local swimming hole? So many fun things to do without jeopardizing your spine again. Good luck! Cindylou

**GregA** · 06-13-2011, 09:53 PM

Thanks For all the advice, today my wife came home with passes to a zoo and aquarium in MD.
I do have a boat and havent taken it out since the summer of 2009 I know that I cant take the pounding that I get on my boat . I cant even lift the boat trailer off of the stand it is sitting on. me and my oldest son have been fishing in Quarry next door to our house .Most of the parks want an adult to accompany the childern I guess we will have to wait till next year. Or do you guys think this is going to be Forever?
Greg

**ajj1001** · 06-14-2011, 02:42 AM

it was forever for me, just not worth the risk. I settled for waterparks, non contact games, skiing with my kids.

**KanRunMo** · 06-18-2011, 02:41 PM

Some amustment parks don't require an adult if the kids are a certain height. The 7 year olds are a little young though. The old-type roller coasters would definitely be out. However, I've ridden several roller coasters that have two large round rails and they are very smooth. Something like the high speed trains. They do go fast but do not throw you around or jerk you. Best to follow doctor's orders.

**Kimberly** · 06-19-2011, 10:16 AM

I agree with everyone (and wouldn't risk it if I were you.)

My roller-coaster-riding days may be over, but that doesn't stop us from going and having a GREAT time. My kids are a little older than yours (10 & 12), but we've been "doing" amusement parks without me riding the big rides for many years now. I usually bring a friend (with kids!) so that the kids have a "riding partner" and I have someone to talk to while I wait for them by the exit. When they were younger (and I didn't feel comfortable sending them on a ride solo) , we had to stick to the gentler rides or have the kids take turns riding with my husband. But really, what we all remember is the fun of the day....the conversations, the excitement, the fabulous food (HA!). Some parks have more to offer than others (e.g. the Six Flags near us is full of "BIG" rides, but other parks and Disneyland for example, have lots of "attractions" I can go on.)

And my kids have grown up with an awareness and thoughtfulness for others' needs ("no, let's go on something else next so mom can come too" kind of thing.)

Tiny bit of a silver lining.

Best,
Kimberly