Hey OP, I blew out the discs between C5,6,&7 17 years ago doing... incline bench. Had them fused 10 years ago. I'm actually back in the gym this year. Keep in mind that everyone's fusions end with different results. You hear about just as many "unsuccessful" results as you do the positive ones. What I'm getting at is that it is such a personal experience that you should be careful listening to the experiences of others. I can tell you that I've doubled my bench this year, have zero neck issues with high bar squats (knees are another story), and have less pain now than at any point since my surgery but that will mean nothing to you. It's still surgery on the spine like it was 16 years ago even though I'm sure much has changed. It's still going to affect everyone in different ways. Listen to your body (and doc) & if you do start back lifting go very light to start. Always, always focus on form and protect your neck. Err to the side of caution and good luck!