These x-rays were taken today.
It's officially six weeks, tomorrow, since surgery ... back to work for at least a few hours on Wednesday - we'll see how I do. I have tried to go on any errands we've needed to do so I am up and about walking/moving - this past weekend I was exhausted after just a few hours of activity. Recovery is a long road, but it's amazing how much better I have felt at each 7 day span.
Doctor said I am healing up great. Still no sensation in my neck above the scar (this is normal), so shaving is a bit unnerving. Eating is still a bit of a challenge with certain foods - I still need a beverage with a [metal, thank you] straw, and I need to take much smaller bites these days. I no longer need to wear the soft collar - at least all the time. I can still wear it if I am needing the extra support and I suspect I will - especially at work standing all day.
I hopefully start physical therapy sometime this week. I have an easier time looking right than left/down than up. I can drive, but I need to turn a lot more than my head to check for traffic. Thank god for car cameras (though no cameras for the left side which has always been my weaker side for motion ... Honda - take notes).
I go back in 8-10 weeks for a follow up. First question (after staring at the x-rays) is probably going to be about C3-4. Could just be the way I was standing, but the nagging thought in the back of my head is that it's not uncommon to return for additional fusions. So much to look forward to.