Mike, I just read your post about the fusion so here is some info. I had one disc removed and fusion back in 1990, and again in 2000. Was in a collar for 2 months. Don't push it, listen to the doctor. You're most likely going to wear a collar for 6 weeks or more and then be on some kind of weight restriction for a while as far as lifting is concerned---maybe about 25 lbs.

Without trying to bust your bubble I'd say that if you really want to do it right you should hang the bow up for this year.Fusion involves putting bone chips in place of the discs and these have to all heal together like a broken bone. If you tear something loose there you're going to be in a hell of a mess for a long time.

I do wish you luck with the surgery.