Degenerative discs- had laminectomy on my way to fusion

I am 64 and have a farm, which necessitates heavy lifting, twisting, etc. In my college years, I herniated two discs playing lacrosse and have managed the pain for 40+ years. Three years ago my surgeon recommended fusion given the damage to my S1-L4, but I elected a laminectomy. Back pain solved. However, I now have worsening numbness and burning in my left ankle joint, and cramping along my left shin. My surgeon informed me that disc degradation is getting more advanced, and my left leg is progressively getting weaker (e.g., foot drop, etc.) He is again recommending fusion to stem the tide (he was kind enough to withhold the “I told you so”). He has told me that unless I change my lifestyle, this fusion will likely not be my last. Like others, I am weighing the pros and cons of more surgery. Should I try to gut it out and pray that this is as bad as it gets, or fuse the discs with all the pain/hassle/risk, etc. that comes with the fusion. So… anyone share this sob story? Anyone have laminectomy followed by fusion? How long is the healing time? I am in good health otherwise. Recommendations?