Good morning @maxiesmom, I was in this transplant neighborhood and saw your "should I or shouldn't I" post. I went through that process of deciding a few years ago after a fall down the mountain. So I decided to jump in and share our support on Connect.

At the time of the fall, there were 3 fractures in the elbow and a dislocated shoulder. The elbow healed rather quickly or so I thought. The shoulder appeared to be more of an issue. The first repair surgery failed because, as the surgeon said, "you've got the Grand Canyon of holes in there". The incision healed and the shoulder kept the arm immoveable. Surgery #2 was a cadaver attempt to block the hole. No luck. Finally, the pain level kept climbing and I agreed to a replacement.

Where are you in terms of repair and rebuilding? You mention that your strength and movement are limited now. Your surgeon couldn't be specific about the outcome. So that sounds like it is up to you.

I hung in there because I owned a business as a sole proprietor and had to be there, or so I thought. And then the pain began knocking on my door again to join limited movement and strength.

So...I went ahead with the surgery idea and mine turned out to need a reverse shoulder implant. The outcome???? I am totally pain-free from the shoulder. I was out to dinner with friends a day or so after a hospital stay of 2 days. However, the realities of modifying the body we have been given didn't enable much improvement in function and strength. What do you want to do at 78 that requires more strength? I am also 78 and have a strong human-machine that brings me my orange juice every morning. Seriously, you will need help. And you will need to revisit my surgeon's farewell as I left. "Don't fall.....I can't fix you."

And so @maxiesmom, you know that you can ask any and every question right here on Connect. The only question that is reserved for you, is should I or shouldn't I? We are here for you.

May you be free of suffering and the causes of suffering.
Chris