I am glad that after 5 years you are doing so well. This site sure offered me that same kind of compassion while I was scared to death too. I had C3-7 done. As far as feeling the hardware, I feel mine as well, and sometimes on cold days, I feel colder in my neck area. Sometimes a creak or two when I turn my head a certain way, but no real pain that is not endurable. I was glad to have a success to, and I sure read the posts here too. I root for everyone that faces this surgery.
I just wanted to say hi to you, and tell you I am glad to hear of another good outcome to give othere encouragement and hope. ginnie