Need a little help!

Hello Cali Peeps! My mom has been searching the internet to find out how to take care of me post-op!  She has found nothing so I figured I would come on here and find out from those that have been through it.   She will be taking care of me and my 2 year old lil man.  She has taken two weeks off from work.  What can she do to help me out?  She want's a schedule?  If you had someone waiting on you and and foot after your surgery what would you tell that person?   Thanks in advance! Lola  I am going to be cross posting this to get as many responses as possible.

Your surgeon should have post op guidelines that you need to follow. Get a copy of them for your mom.....

I have an entire booklet of information from my surgeon, however I am looking for more real experiences regarding what people needed or wish they had.  Thanks,  Lola

Hi Lola, I had Lap RNY when my daughter was 2. My husband had just started a new job and wasn't home much. My In-laws kept my daughter the first night I was home and my mom took her the second. My mom would come and make sure I had jello made and when I wanted soup she would heat it and strain it. She did a little cleaning around the house and just let me direct her. I did alot of sleeping the first couple of days. after that, I was starting to get restless so I liked to do things for myself. The biggest help was having someone chase Sammi. I couldn't lift her and she demanded a lot of attention so that was the bigges help. I also have to tell you, I had a text book surgery and I heal very fast. I only spent one night in the hospital and I was only out of work for a week and half. Good luck to you on your upcoming surgery. Sue

I had my wife stay home for my recovery and all I wanted to be left alone and not treated like I was dieing. I would suggest she focus on the 2 year old and you'll be fine knowing the 2 year old is in good hands. 

Well, since you can't lift much weight after surgery, she can help you tons w/the little guy... you won't be able to lift him for awhile. She can drive for you until you can drive again... There's so much that we do around the house that involves lifting when you think about it, and we're discouraged from doing that... so... tell her to get ready to LIFT stuff!!

How sweet of her to help you!!

:)

best wishes!!

Lori

My wife was a big help to me.  I had to come home with a catheter and urine bag for a week, so I was pretty limited.  Having the liquids and purees ready when the time comes can help a lot.  Helping with the first shower or two can be a big help, too.  Sleep where you can and when you can.  That can mean bed, couch, recliner, or floor with pillows.  In the hospital, if you are a light sleeper you will have problems.  You will be woken up at all hours to check your vitals.  If you can get a visit from one or two "angels" during the first week or two, it can be a big help.  You will have 100+ questions and they can guide you big time.  Also a drive to the doctor's office and to the first 1 or 2 local support meeting can be good also.  Hope these help.  Brian 

Thank you everyone for your words of encouragement and your experiences! Thanks you again!  Lola