what to bring to hospital

Hi to all, I have read 100 times suggestions to bring to the hospital and never thought I would have MY turn asking!!!! So what does everyone bring to the hospital? DON"T WORRY I ALWAYS HAVE MY CHAP STICK!!! DON"T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT!!! haha... but other then that, anything? Do you take a shower or am I kidding myself that I will want one? crosswords? I really do enjoy them so would I use them? HAve the majortiy just rested? Visitors?? what is everyones thoughts. My daughter (22) is really wanting to be there. I of course am thinking it is important to her so I said that coming to the hospital is great!!!! but after I am trying to explain I am SURE I will be kind of out of it and just not wanting visitors. I had my gallbladder out years back and remember just wanting to rest. Any thoughts, suggestions and of course advise is welcome!!! Thanks everyone!! Carrie

Carrie, I packed everything and used nothing. The chapstick is good, when I got my shower, I couldn't wash my hair and didn't really care about my own shower gel and such, so just used what the hospital gave me. Your own toothbrush and toothpaste are nice and maybe some mouthwash. I just stayed in my johnny the whole time, and wore the slipper socks since it was easier than trying to put on my own slippers. Underwear are very nice to put on once the foley is gone too! I would reccomend low-cut because "granny panties" rubbed on my staples and were rather uncomfortable. And of course something to wear home! Now that I've rambled, my list would be: Chapstick, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, underwear and clothes to wear home. Good luck! Carmen

Hi Carrie I made my list for the hospital....checked it twice....packed my bag and..... my husband left it home. I was fine the hospital provided everything I needed. The only thing I wished I had was a back scratcher for some reason I was very itchy and it would have come in handy for reaching things. (it was not included on my list) Anything that would make your hospital stay pleasant is good Hugs angel

The one thing that I wished I had brought and didn't was my pillow from home - smile

Carrie, I brought , my cell phone and charger, toothbrush and paste, brush, hairspray, makeup (I refused to look bad) and a comfy pair of pjs I put on as soon as the IV was removed.The most important thing I brought was my "baby pillow"Its a very fluffy travel pillow that I had made a bright polka dot pillowcase for( it really brightened the room and I had several comment on it) I used it adjust my head, ( perfect for the neck,)put under my IV arm, & hold against me. I am so GLAD I had it. Robin R

Hi Carrie, I would definitely encourage your daughter to visit you as much as possible. My surgery was last month and my sister spent many hours with me day and night. In addition to walking with me, she served as an advocate when needed, in addition to helping my physically when the nurses were not around. Although you will be resting some of the time, it's not as much time as you may think, and the company will be important to you. Good luck!!!!! Lori

Hijack! Lori - how are you doing, girl??!! How are you feeling?

Hi Carrie: Things to bring to hospital: ? Back scratcher....it becomes your extended arm for reaching things on your table. Believe me, it was my most prized possession. ? I did bring a crossword puzzle book and it came in handy one night when I had a "pain drug" induced nightmare. It helped me calm myself at 2:00am until I could go back to sleep. VISITORS: I agree with you to let your daughter be there for you. This journey is not just ours...we kind of bring our family along for the ride. So by letting your daughter visit may be helpful for her to see you are doing ok. Fall asleep...that's ok. She will understand. Let her give you foot rubs. It helps with the pain (possibly from gass) and gives her a way to help take care of you. You will be giving her a gift. Take care and good luck with your journey... Towanda