My first thought would be that if you had that 3-5 years to pretty do whatever you wanted that it would not be enough time to build what you want which is fatherhood and family.

You mentioned not having children the "old fashioned way." How important to you is having children....any way? I'm not trying to be snotty here, I'm just trying to get an idea of where your priorities are in the scheme of things. You have children normally and perhaps share a year or two of their lives or....?

Then there is the matter of making each day worth living....you have already said you will not do the sedentary life again. I understand what you mean by that....minutes become hours and days when all you can do is barely slog through and it you are not even sure if there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Have you spoken to people who have tried these choices and heard both sides of each option? No one really knows except those who have been there.

I wish you the best of luck.....and will be curious as to which option you choose. Take Care

PS I'm afraid I don't have an answer to your question.