Melissa,
Mine won't be a good guide for you. I had the sternotomy and it caused a problem with a disc I was having trouble with, so I had to have a cervical discectomy exactly one month after. Even with that, though, I was back to work by September 4th after the thymectomy on July 18 and discectomy on August 18.

You'll be surprised how receptive toddlers are to the fact that for a while you can't lift them. My granddaughter reminded me that I shouldn't pick her up! At the tender age of 3 1/2. (She lived with us, so it was just second nature to pick her up.) If you explain to them that mommy has an owie and can't pick them up until it gets better, they will be very understanding! I am sorry that you have to explain that to them though! I was so lucky my children were grown.

Best of luck on your surgery - and we'll all be sending positive thoughts and prayers your way for a speedy recovery and REMISSION!!!!!

Hugs!