The tumor was removed yesterday and right now the pain from the incision is really only slightly worse than having the tumor to begin with, so I can't really complain. The worst part of all of it was the botched attempt at my first IV; the only time and IV was more painful was when I was 11 and found out I'm allergic to lidocaine.

I'll be off work for 2 weeks. If I do have to go back to my current job, then I'm gonna have to pick up some evening hours because just working mornings isn't paying enough, plus in the evening I'll be able to use the car instead of hiking through the snow to work. I use the word "hiking" literally since the township no longer requires people to shovel snow or salt their sidewalks in the winter, which is why the doctors ordered me off work for two weeks instead of just one like they originally planned.

Thank you for everyone who wished me luck with this. Even with the incision hurting a bit it still is a relief not to feel that painful lump against my spine each time I stand or sit.

~Baz