So, do you think you could use 'em to create a blonde and a redhead..?

After meeting with a couple of specialists in regards to my mystery injury, it has been determined that I have Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is the compression of muscles, nerves, arteries, and veins between the clavicle (collarbone) and the first rib. 95% of all cases of TOS involve the compression of the nerves, with the resulting weakness and numbness of the arms being the primary complaint. Since I did not have these symptoms, TOS was not considered to be likely.

However, further examination revealed that, while my nerves passing through the thoracic outlet had no complaints as to their present circumstance, the compression in that area was wreaking havoc with both the major artery providing blood to the arms and the muscles that pass through the opening. As a result, when I raise my arms above my head, such that it looks like I am trying to be the 'Y' in YMCA or playing the part of a French general, I do not have a pulse in either arm. Furthermore, even light weight training or even extended reaching with either arm causes pain; in the weight training case, pain not only accompanies the workout, but continues for days afterward.

The solution? Shortly after Tom's wedding, I am to undergo Thoracic Outlet surgery on my left side, in which the surgeon goes down through my trapezius muscle (muscle between neck and shoulder, behind the collarbone) and removes my first rib. Surgery for the right side will come a few months later, depending on rehab time for the first surgery.

I was hoping they could use the ribs to create a blonde and a redhead to go with the brunette I married, but.......