So I just had surgery on my back. I had a herniated disk that was pressing against the nerve roots causing a great deal of pain. This pain would often really get bad when I would perform or practice because being a percussionist involves a lot of spinal movement. The pain associated with that combined with the idea of not being able to play for a little while due to the surgery made me start thinking about performers who suddenly can't play any more due to injury. I know that for me it is hard mentally not being able to play or teach right now. My entire world feels off kilter. So I can't imagine what it must be like when one is told they can't play any more period. I know that in a few weeks I will be able to play pain free and yet my world still feels upside down. It has to be very traumatic for someone to lose that chance forever. I have to say to those who have, I am so sorry that this ability was taken away from you because I now know a little bit how much of a sense of loss one must feel. And to those who have no problems with your health I wish you the best of luck and hope that it continues that way as no one should have to go through not being able to play. And finally, for those who play and are healthy yet choose not use all of those abilities, to those I feel slightly angry that you have this wonderful gift and ability that there are people who would love to have the opportunity you have. Don't waste a minute of the time we have because we never know when it will be gone.

I had major shoulder surgery two years ago and could not play for a year. I feel for anyone
who can't play permanently.