My Surgery Date is Jan. 22nd!

Ok, I'm nervous but ready! I'm going over to Nampa Idaho, it's closer to me. Living in Eastern Oregon, but it's amazing the emotions you get. My husband and my Mom are trying to talk me out of this but my daughter is 100% suportive. She lives in Portland and won't be able to come but I know her she'll be on the phone 5 min. after surgery! I would appreciate any last minute pointers to take stuff to the hospital with me. I heard a longhandled wooden spoon, and lip balm. Wishing you all a quick recovery, and great health! Catherine

Dear Catherine: Congratulations. I was in and out so fast I really didn't need much. The lip balm is a good thing. I took a small bar of really nice soap for my shower that I got to take before going home. Something loose to wear home which can be what you wear in. In the hospital they have gowns and robes for you to ambulate in and that is what I wore. I took my CD player but did not feel like listening or even reading for that matter. The time goes so fast and you're kind of dopey anyway. If you have a morphine pump use it the first day. Cough (support your stomach) as often as you can. Ambulate (get up to walk) when they want you to and sit in chair by the bed if they give you the chance. Oh yes, they weigh you each day. I gained about 12 lbs and I was so shocked...its fluid and will go away in a few days. Did they teach you how to turn and sit up? If not get some instruction on that. My bed had a trapeze and that sure helped. Roll to your side, put your feet over the side and raise up from there. Here's to speedy recovery for you. Molly

Thank You Molly, I'm at that let's do it today and get it over with stage. Although I have all my stuff, I'm not packed yet. Thanks for all your great info. Catherine

Dear Catherine: I was going through some of my old messages and found this one of yours. Just wondering how everything went and how you are doing. Just a note to say I was thinking about you. I am doing well and feel so much healthier this year compared to last. I hope the same for you. Molly