survival list

Since I have the next month to prepare my house (pantry, fridge etc etc) I would like to know what everyone purchased prior to surgery for home and what they packed for the hospital....I am anal about being prepared and I know my surgeons office will let me know ahead of time but I would like some ideas from those of you who have been there and done it--thanks so much!

Hey Lori: I'm a bandster but I think all the pantries are probably packed the same. My surgeon brought me a "gift bag" filled with the stuff I could eat until I saw him the next week: crystal light, propel water, chicken broth, sugar free jello...and then told me to buy some sugar free popsicles. After my first visit, I got to have protein supplements and creamed soups. As far as taking to the hospital.....something comfy to wear home. That and chapped stick was all I needed. Oh, I did ask for some hand lotion while I was in there. Here's hoping you get lots of other posts so you can have lots of other opinions. Congrats on your upcoming date.....after all the confusion. Enjoy your holidays. Good luck to you. La Wanda

Don't overbuy the protein stuff. Get samples of several different kinds as your tastes may very well change after surgery. Strange, but true. Get rid of the junk, of course. As for the hospital, I took chapstick and a pillow for the ride home. I didn't need anything else.

Prior to surgery, try to wean yourself off sugars and caffine. This will help you not go into withdrawls while your body is adjusting to the surgery.

So excited about your surgery being approved! YippiE!!! Check out my profile, I have alot of pre and post op hints and ideas that might help you. Blessings, tami

i agree with what they said... ohh and panties

Hi Alexa, you are so cute!! Terri

Lori, It wasn't a concern for me, but lots of women start their periods after surgery so if that is a possibility for you, take some "supplies". I also had my husband bring me a fan b/c I was burning up & my surgery was in January! Chapstick was another thing I used a lot. Good luck! Vickie J. 277/152/142

One thing I enjoyed the most after surgery - was wearing those spaghetti-strapped tanks with the bra (extra material w/elastic) already in them. I had to stay in a hotel room for 1 week after surgery and I remember it was difficult to get anything up, down, or around my belly area. The tank was so easy to wear around the house, or if I went out - I just put a shirt over. The elastic band on the inside was perfect for pinning the drain bags to. I stocked up on tons of a certain protein drink and certain Crystal Lite flavor - I had been using both for a month straight before surgery. But when I was able to drink - I couldnt stomach either. Too sweet, etc. But now I am 2 mos. post-op and I can now drink my favorite flavor - but still cant stomach the protein drink. I have good days and bad days with food - just get rid of the junk. Because you will have to try different things along your journey. Good luck and bring everything else the other ladies said and a pair of socks.