Words of encouragement for Pre-Oppers

Words of encouragement for Pre-Oppers I am the most negative person I know. I have in my mind that everything I do will fail. That is the way I felt Pre-Op. But....I did everything by the book and did just what my surgeon asked of me (diet,exercise,bowel prep, etc..) and you know what this has been a breeeze.(So far). Here is a few suggestions for Pre-Oppers that I followed. (I've been a nurse for 8 years and never thought of some of this) 1. Drink 132 oz of water the day before surgery. I did this and it works. Drinking the water keeps you from being so thirsty and hydrates your body post op. 2. Walking. I was bound and determined,come hell or high water to walk within an hour after being taken to my room. I actually got up 45 min after (they say). To be honest, I do not remember this marathon walk but I did it. But, everytime I was sitting there in the bed, instead of watching TV, I got up and walked. I am not lying about this, but I have not taken any pain med or had any gas pains since discharge from the hospital. I have felt so good, I've called everyone I know and asked them if something was wrong with me. But, I prayed and put alot of faith in God to get me through this and it worked. Thanks for all your friendships and prayers and kind words pre-op. P.S. I have'nt posted alot since I got Home because I am afraid of a clot.. Oh, here I go with the negativity.

Thanks for the advice Sarah! My big day is tomorrow and your post was right on time! Felicia

Sarah- Good post for the pre-ops, I walked to the door and thought I had achieved something about 45 minutes after I got to my room. THe most painful time getting out of bed is the first time, then every time is easier. As soon as I made the one lap a few hours later with the nurse, I walked constantly. Apparently, even when I don't remember I did it...someone came to see me yesterday and they said I insisted on 3 laps in the hall around the station while they were there...well, I don't even remember them coming to see me! LOL Walk, walk, walk!!! As soon as they allowed me to have water, add sip, sip, sip (you will be so glad that you begin this habit up front), when you are done sipping, walk some more. You will find by the second day, getting in and out of bed on your own is nothing. I had 3 drains and 23 staples and was walking around visiting with others....because I MADE myself get up! Even if you have to ring to get help getting up, do it!! Best of luck to all you going in soon! This is our time and what a wonderful opportunity we have been given! I spent 5 hours at the mall today, so I am beat!!! I even managed to handle eating at Applebee's!!! I am so happy I did fine! Tab

THANX FOR THE WORDS MY DAY IS THURSDAY OF THIS WEEK AND I AM VERY NERVOUS.I HAVE PRAYED AND SO MANY TIMES WE PRAY BUT DONT GIVE GOD A CHANCE TO SHOW OUT AND REALLY SHOW US WHAT WE CAN DO..I REALLY APPRECIATE THIS....