What a relief!  When I left her she was awake, talking, not in pain and hungry.  She felt better than she has in years.  She has two new discs, two titanium rods, and several bones removed as I understand it.  The surgeons were extremely happy with the results and feel she will do amazing in a few weeks.  Now I am so tired I can barely think straight so I'm off to bed.  Her hubby is staying at the hospital with her and the duck is there too now.  Until tomorrow...