The one thing I didn't consider before having surgery was the loss of use of my left arm. It didn't really occur to me that I would be unable to do simple things like unscrew a jar of salad dressing, or wash the dishes (disclaimer: added that last bit to make Tam think I would be doing dishes otherwise). I had a friend who had lost the use of his right arm in an accident, and I never really appreciated how difficult life would be with only one arm. I realize I am lucky, and I can already do minor things with my left arm. For some reason I really struggle hard to be self sufficient, and I refuse help as much as possible, and try to find some way to get my normally two arm tasks done with one. Humans are remarkably adaptable, and it has been an enlightening experience to say the least. I will be glad, and grateful, when I regain the full use of my left arm.