I have just today saw this thread and I must say, I cringe at the level of pain you were experiencing! I am so glad you are doing better and the upcoming vacation will be so good for you. One thing I kept wanting to ask reading through you ordeal was, did you ever apply ice to the area? I know it might be like putting a band aid on hatchet gash (thinking Lizzy Borden for some reason!), but it does have some numbing ability and shrinking swelling. I hope you keep improving and never ever have to go through anything like this again.