Apologies for taking so long to respond! Recovery is going well. In addition to my excellent team, I credit my "basic training" approach pre-surgery: healthy diet, hydration, supplements, mental prep, family support, and exercise. I returned to work (K-8 special ed teacher) four weeks post-op. The first week back was tough, but for my mental health, I needed to go back. I'm just past six weeks post and go for my first appointment with my neurosurgeon tomorrow. Also having an MRI, which I'm a little nervous about.
Overall, my biggest issue is the constant double vision I am still experiencing. I deal with it by covering one eye, which allows me to teach. My students and I make light of it by doing a daily check-in where I uncover the eye and attempt to read for them. 😀
My neurosurgeon advises that more time is needed for healing/improvement, and I have an appointment scheduled with my team's ophthalmologist in mid-May.
My advice to someone pre-op: there will be days when you can either get sucked in to fear, self-pity and negativity or, you can use the whole experience to fuel your personal growth. Use it to encourage others, to demonstrate what strength, perseverance, and survival look like. It's a choice.