Thanks, Helen. It looks like you and I have a lot in common. I'm happy we're here to talk about it.

Dear Nicki... 3 weeks post-op was a dark time. I was in the hospital 15 days. I lost 62 lbs, because I coudn't eat and they couldn't pump in the calories fast enough. I couldn't walk because of the spare parts they removed from my leg, and I couldn't use crutches due to shoulder pain. (They had to sever an important nerve during neck the dissection.) I, too, was a mess.

Two years later, my leg is better with the passage of time, my shoulders are stronger after physical therapy, and I've gained back 20 pounds. I've lost a few battles along the way, but I'm doing OK.

I wish you and Tom the very best.

Ken