Hello jmh, I am very sorry to hear that, but I do agree that things have gotten better as far as treatment is concerned. I do not think that you have to follow the exact same path that your father did. One thing that I discovered over the last several years, and I believe that it has made a very positive difference for me is an herb called Turmeric. It has been used as a medicine in India for over a thousand years. It helps by fighting inflammation. I think that anyone with AS or any other chronic illness with pain and inflammation should give it a try. And unlike most things, Turmeric is very inexpensive. Good luck and please let is know how you are doing.