Yes, it was "brutal
back then". Way to make me realize yet again how old I am.
Seriously, during the entire recovery process, I was pretty nonchalant, figuring people were visiting me making such a big fuss, but that Jeez, it wasn't that big a deal, get over it! Only now that I have some perspective do I realize that it was about 98% certain that I would die on the table.
On the flip side, it has given me a little more appreciation of life in general. I don't let too much crap bother me anymore.
You must be pretty far along now - things still moving along as expected?