What to pack??

Hello fellow Octoberans (yeah I know it's not a word)! For newly post-ops, what did you take to the hospital for your stay and for pre-ops what do you plan to take for your stay? My doctor requires a 5-7 day stay. Have a great weekend! Keke

HI, well my surgery is 2 days after yours and I am starting to get my things ready. I have a friend that is 1 year out and she said she packed alot and never even opened her bag. She gave me some good advice and here is my bag .... Robe slip on slippers or shoes with grip on soles (both for walking those halls) sanitary pads (some people have told me surgery brings on your period and it did for her) Chapstick (for those very dry lips) Outfit to go home in (you can wear the same one you came in , my Dr. said to wear a button up shirt. I am guessing so you will have to stretch less) a Package of flushable wipes (you can't really stretch very well to "clean" in the bathroom) toothbrush & toothpaste If your Dr. lets you take a shower while there bring your normal bathroom needs An extra pillow (hospital pillows are so flat and hard) List of phone numbers and a calling card (so who ever is with you can make your out of surgery calls) Other than that she said don't even bother bringing books and such. When you are not walking you are sleeping and not sleeping you are walking. Hope this helps. All my prayers for a healthy recovery to you, jennifer 11 days until surgery!!!

Great list, but don't forget the hair brush. For personal needs, maybe a long wooden spoon so you don't need help wiping your backside. Sorry for being so personal, but some people have a problem with this since the stomach is so soar. The hospital provided me with shampoo to take my shower.

I never thought about taking a wooden spoon. Thanks for telling me! I'm packing one now. Take care!

Hey Keke! First of all, Good Luck! I would tell you about the same thing...I packed so much and didn't touch any of it. I wore the same clothes home (stretchy cotton pants and a big long sleeve t-shirt) that I wore to the hospital since they got me into a gown about 10 minutes after I got there. The only thing I used of mine was my toothbrush and toothpaste, my pillow, favorite blanket, and chapstick! Good Bless you and I hope your surgery goes beautifully! Kate

Hi! Congratulations on your upcoming surgery! You're gonna do great! This is what I took and used during my hospital stay. Robe - To walk the halls without flashing everyone my behind Slippers - Only used to walk out of the hospital Hairbrush - Used, but the hospital also had one for me. Make-up - One time, the day I left the hospital, to make me feel better Toothbrush & Paste - Used, but the hospital also had those for me. Magazine - Just one, and I read it. Crosswork Book - I only did two of the puzzles pain meds make it hard to concentrate. Book - Only read 1 chapter, hard to concentrate. Pillow - Used one from home for comfort and for the ride home. Cell phone & Charger - to make long distance calls to friends/family Flat Iron - never used Baby wipes - never used, hospital had some for me Chapstick - A definate need on day one of surgery Binder - To hold all the paperwork they give you during your stay. Comfy clothes - Sweatpants and a nice large shirt, because your tummy will be swollen a bit. Best of luck to you on a speedy recovery! Mary

Thanks for all the replies to Keke's question. I needed to know the same thing. This board has really be helpful to me. ~~DIAMOND~~

Diamond, Did you get my e-mail???

Keke - thanks for posting the question and thanks fir all that answered it. I had the same question. Keke- I'll be thinking of you we share a surgery date. My best to you Ann

Same to you!!!!!!!! Take care of yourself!