Keep going. That is all I can say.
My riding friend had triple bypass surgery last year and got back on the bike and rode incredibly well. Just 2 months ago, he had prostate surgery to remove it and we just did 26 this past Sunday. Are there issues? Yes, but he is back on and doing well.
So, keep going.
Brings back some memories of me complaining a bit when I pull up to a guy who is trashed and at his limit. Talking to him, I find out he had double hip replacements! Yikes. I have nothing to complain about. I rode with him the last 7 miles of the event just to make sure he would survive it. Then I also ran into a guy with an artificial leg. I thought I was having a tough day climbing and look over at this guy. Again, told the mind to shut up and just keep going that you have nothing to complain about.
So, moral of the story is, just keep the legs moving and remember, there is always someone out there that has it more difficult than you do. Just keep up the work and it will get better. Maybe not easier, but it will get better.
john