Hi GG, yeah 3yrs is a long time to wait on the NHS. I ended up getting a loan out to pay for my surgery, went with Tescos loans and only have to pay 6.8% APR so its quite cheap compared to other loan companies.
I wouldn't say the pain is too much. its more soreness and aching than pain. Its only my second day out of surgery and i managed to pop to the shops today, went to boots and found some liquid Multivitamins.
But the shoulder pain from the gas is the worst part of it. Its surprising how quickly you'll get up and start walking around etc...
Good luck and i hope things work out for you.
Jules
xxxxxxx