Steve, I have relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis, I was diagnosed 12 years ago, and have been in remission for the last 2 years. I am scheduled to have my surgery for lap band on Sep 23. I totally know what you are talking about with the lumbar puncture, I will never ever have another one, unless the do one on me when I am unconsious. I would like to talk and share the experiences with you also.
When my oldest daughter was born I had something similar to you happen with the numbness in the legs, I woke up and both legs were numb, but the doc told me it was from a UI medicine that I was on. I also had a bout with optic neuritis (problems with the eyes when I was about 11 years old) I was told that it was all made up because my sister had just had eye surgery. I look forward to talking with you about this journey with the band and ms.
Has your neuro talked with you about Avonex a weekly intermuscular injection, Beta Seron (sp?) every other day sub q injection, Copaxone daily sub q injections? these injections help slow the progression of the ms. I started with the Avonex, but the side effects never went away, so I changed to the Copaxone (I never thought I would be able to give myself an injection). If you have any questions about my experiences with the ms please feel free to ask.
Johanna