Bubblezz, Don't let Pappy get you down, in a couple of weeks he will feel entirely differently, trust me on that. The first two weeks are the worst and for some worse than others. It will pass, and he will get better. Sounds like he has a really good support system and a caring surgeon, that is more than half the battle. I am about 4 1/2 months post surgery and I still have days that are not wonderful but decidedly better than any day I had for two years prior to surgery. It is just that the early days are rough. To be honest, when I think back to what we have all been through and survived I am truly amazed and when I realize how fortunate we are to live in a time and place where such surgery is possible. I cannot imagine how I could have lived with the pain I was in much longer to be honest with you. I worry more about you wearing yourself out taking care of Pappy and worrying about him than I do Pappy, he has a team of doctors to help him amd he will be okay once he gets past these first couple of weeks. Does he have a lot of swelling? I am sorry, you might have said and I just don't remember, afraid I have had a bit of a hair raiser myself today between my legs and my back and doing too much. Anyway, hang in there and know there are a lot of people here that are pullling for you and Pappy. As the old saying goes, "This to shall pass." Keep posting and when you feel like venting remember we are here for that too. We've all done our share, believe me. Look forward to more posts from you. Good luck, Rowdy