A quick update before the night's end:
Jim's surgery is estimated to happen tomorrow afternoon; the doctor performing the surgery wants to allow time for the swelling to go down.
The surgeon plans to fuse two sets of vertebrae: T9 to L2 and C2 to C9 (here is a spinal diagram for reference) -- this will prevent motion in those areas of the spine, but stabilize the injured areas. We hear the surgery can take anywhere from three to 10 hours.
Tonight, Jim is undergoing traction to help realign his neck. After that, they plan to move him to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit in the McLure building here at Fletcher Allen for the night, where he will remain until tomorrow's surgery.
Taylor, thanks so much for keeping us updated! Please tell Uncle Jim that the Durham Walton's love him and will keep him in our prayers continuously! Please tell the family we send our love and prayers as well! ~Connie, Phil, Joyce and family
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