What Items Are Needed?

Ok everyone.  Was wondering if you all could tell me items you found you needed in the hospital, then for the first couple weeks at home. I have been reading around and see that some are saying wipes for backside and body wipes, etc... ???????? Besides the sf jello, sf popsicles, vitamins, water- what else have you all found you needed?  Thanks, Netti

Hi there.  At the hospital I didn't need most of what I brought.  The things I actually used were toothbrush and paste, chapstick, breath mints, my hairbrush, deoderant and my robe.   Everything else stayed in my bag.  As for the wipes, for some it is easier as it can hurt if you have to twist to reach your backside.  I was lucky, and did fine without the helpers some people need.  At home, foods that I wouldn't have to do much to prepare...soups, yogurt (sugar-free), ricotta cheese (versatile and smooth), flavored water and protein shake mix.  That was really about it.  Good luck!!  Are you getting excited? Jeannie PS I almost forgot...sugar free fudgecycles, vitamins and calcium supplement.

Can we have soups? I thought just chicken broth.  Yes I am getting excited, but so scared/nervous at the same time.  Have you found a good water? I have yet to find one that I really enjoy. Netti

I put the soups through the blender.  I was allowed pureed foods, so even chili in the blender was ok.  I think my favorite waters are adirondack pomegranet and aquafina alive pomogranet berry.  I use a lot of the crystal light.  I really don't like plain water very often.

I brought PJ pants to wear under my gown and I was so happy I did. I also brought, and used, chapstick, ipod, toothbrush and toothpaste. However, they will provide you with a hair brush and toothbrush etc. I decided to use my own but if you don't want to bring yours there will be some provided. I am also suggesting to everyone I meet that they bring earplugs and a sleep mask. I wear a sleepmask regularly so I just brought one and I was so thankful I did. My friends also brought me earplugs which I hadn't even thought of, the combination of the two was soooo sooo helpful to getting some rest. Not only was the sound from my roommate, the hallway, and IV machine blocked out but I could sleep during the day even though it was light out, I usually can't sleep if it's light out. I had Dr. Toder and I know her diet plan is different from Cloughs so I am not sure what you can and can't eat but I was and still am a big fan of SF carnation instant breakfast and healthy request cream soups.

I almost forgot about the sf carnation instant breakfast!  This is why I am hoping people will reply to this, so I will make sure I have about everything.

Jammie pants, hmmm never thought of those, but what a good idea!

Netti

Hi Netti,     If you take the Jammie pant, make sure the waist is expandable.  You'll have some swelling in the tummy area, along with bandages, so you'll want them to be comfortable.  Plus, don't take your best pair in case there is some leakage around a bandage.  Also either wear loose clothing there that you'll wear home, or take a roomy outfit with you.  Nothing binding.       Otherwise, there really isn't alot that you'll need while your in the hospital.  The other gals summed it up pretty well.  Personally I was thankful to have the wipes.  Some hospitals provide them, not sure about yours.   Most hospitals give you the toothpaste, toothbrush, chapstick, shampoo, etc., but if your comfortable with your own, take them.       I took a book that I had been reading, but really wasn't feeling up to it while I was there.  Mostly, I slept as much as possible.       The number one thing I would suggest taking with you is your support person!   My hubby was a Knight-In-Shining-Armor....even slept on a cot the whole time.   But don't worry if you don't have someone to stay with you.  The nurses and staff are always available to help you with everything.       For the ride home, I took one of those squishy pillows to hold against my stomach while we were traveling.  Helps with the bumps.       Blessings, Yvonne

hi , I just came home from hospital yest, and everything i brought i really didnt need.. jammy pants is good and just another idea is your own pads , so if you start your period you wont have to use theiers cause they feel like diapers. their huge.