Surgery date 7-17-03

I am exited and scared. Please help with any comments and/ or suggestions.

Hey Bonna ... I'm freakin out a bit too ... I go next Wednesday (June 18) ... unfortunately I don't have too many suggestions, and could use some or an angel myself ... but I'll try to check with you after the 18th ... hang in there and God Bless.

Bonna - I'm excited for you and I'll be praying that you come through with flying colors. I'm having surgery on 7-17 also so maybe we can help each other through. Best wishes.

Bonna, My surgery was 6/3/02. Initially after the surgery, I said "what have I done???" I was in pain and very, very weak. Today, I will say I'd do it over in a heartbeat. I don't know your age but I had a hysterectomy when I was 35 y.o. and recovered quickly. I had the same expectations with this surgery and had to keep reminding myself that I am 50 y.o. and recouperation will take longer for me. Also, remember that each patient is different and we all use many different doctors with different protocols such as post-op diets, supplements, etc. so try not to compare. I, for example still have a hard time eating chicken due to its density but most patients seem to have no problem with chicken. I still can only eat very small meals yet some of my friends can eat a lot more. Some doctors have their patients drinking protein supplements before the surgery and for 2-3 weeks post-surgery. Try to relax and look forward to your new body. There are a lot of things that are recommended to bring to the hospital: a portable fan (you can buy battery operated ones if the hospital won't let you brinh an electrical fan) A fan is wonderful because the morphine which is usually given for pain causes profuse sweating and a fan is a godsend!! Also, some scented body wipes to wipe your face with. If a friend or family member can stay with you, that can be helpful. My hospital stay was terrible---I was brought regular jello instead of sugar-free, apple juice, a no-no, etc, The nurses were too busy to help me bathe myself or even give me a basin. Thank God that my daughter (who happens to be a nurse and knew when an IV infiltrated and needed to be restarted)who acted as my advocate. She knew that fans were kept on the floor and made them go check for availability when told "we don't have anymore." Sure enough, they gave me one. Ah, heaven! My daughter also gave me a head to toe sponge bath that I badly needed, changed my sheets and put a fresh gown on me. I don't mean to paint a bleak picture and tthis is only my experience. Still, all in all, I'd do it again!!! Nancy S.