So sorry to hear about the shingles and all the complications Katie! I had the same experience as kellysf regarding realistic recovery time even with cervical ribs. Having them doesn't mean recovery is any shorter, it can mean better recovery based on research and since mine isn't out, and my TOS has gone on longer than should of because of my surgeon basically not doing what he said he was going to do, my case is different from the"norm". But I think you really need to take it easy and please look into a home health care nurse as suggested by someone else. I am originally from Canada and came back to recover following my first surgery for 2 months. I got private health ins fairly cheap and home health care would be provided if in your situation, having no one to care for you. And PLEASE do not carry a purse. DO everything you can to watch your limits and listen to your body. At the end of the day, everyone is different so one dr cannot even say 3 weeks or 3 months, it all depends on the surgery and the person's overall health, job, support system....basically a variety of different factors. Take all of these things into account. I made the mistake of trying to go back to work by job hunting/interviewing for a new one to accommodate me and I could not even handle that. But again, everyone's situation is different. I hope you feel better soon!