Angie, I would be one of those that returned to work 2 weeks after the Neck Dissection. And I worked weekends all through my Radiation Treatments. I was a Hair Stylist at that time, actually I still do it a few hours a week. I thought it would be a great way to exercise my Arm, Neck and Shoulder and nothing my Surgeon said or for that matter anyone said could change my mind. I spent many hours in pain because I was so BULL HEADED(being polite). I was very tired from the Radiation and doing a haircut took a lot of time and energy. Massage helped a great deal to get things feeling better again and lots of Tylenol. I guess what I am saying is tell your brother to take it slow. Do what he can and ask for help with what he can't do. His new Boss can't be that unfeeling (I hope)that he would not understand that your brother is giving the company his best considering the circumstances.
David