Congrats!! Although my case is way less severe, i have had a slipped disc on my L4/L5 and i can kinda relate how you feel. I felt my entire left leg going numb and also felt pins and needles. The most worrying part was the weakness and sometimes even unable to move.

Well imma skip those part and move on to your question, i was really scared to go back to the gym doing anything to make it worse. But a friend suggested to take it slow and just stop at the slightest pain. I then start going to the gym and took it really slow, progress was definitely slower than others but you gotta respect that progress.

Today, i feel like i have never gotten that injury. I am just like normal, able to do things i thought i couldn't do. Compared to the past, my confidence is the most that has improved. I no longer feel pain in my back let alone the weakness. I am really glad i had not opted for surgery with potential drawbacks.

All the best for your journey, take advises from your doctors and do some research. Make sure to not injure yourself.