An EMG and another MRI to compare the changes are next: in the past week both of her legs have become numb, rubbery at best. There is little strength in them and little volitional control beyond a shuffling walk. Both feet have become as cold as refrigerated meat, and typically have no sensation.
She has acute bilateral sciatic pain in her hips, and a cold, numb, roughly circular area centered around L3-L5.
We met her new neurosurgeon yesterday. The man definately has his lights on, but could well be the real-life Dr. Remoray as played by Joey Tribbiani (sic) - I had to struggle to keep my composure - and later, over lunch, when I mentioned it to Kathryn, peals of laughter!
"I swore he looked familiar, I couldn't place him, though; but I won't be able to look at him the same again!"
It was good to hear spontaneous laughter from her.
So, we have a developing plan, and reasonable confidence in the new guy.
It's another day.