JD Hancock Photos

Cyborg 2.0

As you might know, I am a cyborg. Yes, really.

On Thursday, March 18, 2010 I had a device called a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implanted in my body to help treat severe chronic migraine headaches. The equipment worked wonderfully for several months, but in recent weeks it has become less effective. For reasons unknown, the equipment in my neck has become mis-aligned, resulting in the return of my headaches.

In order to remedy the situation I must undergo a second surgery. The doctors and I have a high degree of confidence that the equipment can be re-aligned successfully and that I will once again be able to block the migraine pain with ease.

This is an important decision that my family and I have carefully considered. We believe this is the best option for me. The surgery date is set for Tuesday, August 24.

As before, the surgery comes with a several-week recovery time. I will have limited use of my neck. Since photography and sharing my photos with you helps make me happy, my wife and son have agreed to help me continue to take photos during my recovery, just as they did after my first surgery. So I will do my best to continue my Duel 365 series. And I will use this Flickr page to post updates on my progress.

I still have a positive perspective: while challenging, my medical issues are not life-threatening. I’m thankful that modern medical science is able to help me treat them. And I’m grateful for the support of co-workers, friends, and family always.

If you have questions about the procedure, feel free to send me a Flickr Mail or contact me through your favorite social network.

And yes, I know Maskatron is technically not a cyborg, but I support his attempts to try to be more like me. ;-)

Recovery Status Updates

• Wednesday, August 25, 2010
• Thursday, August 26, 2010
• Wednesday, September 1, 2010
• Tuesday, September 7, 2010
• Friday, September 10, 2010
• Tuesday, September 21, 2010