You sound like you're having some panic attacks.... why do you need a disability check to have your surgery? I had neck surgery 4 months ago, fusion on C5, C6, C7 with plates/screws... and unfortunately I'm still in pain. Better, but not completely. Don't expect the pain to go away right after your surgery, it's definately not a quick fix. It's a rough surgery and a long recovery. With no guarantees.

You will need time off work of course, but you don't need to be on disability to have this operation, usually disability doesn't come until you have exhausted all your options. Unless of course you are trying to be off permanently? I'm desperate to get back to normal and try to get my life back including working since being able to work means I can do fun things again too. I miss camping, hiking, drawing, and so much more. Even driving hurts. Ugh.

I understand how bad the pain can get. It's relentless and chronic. Hang in there, some days are better then others and a positive attitude goes a long way.