I Have A Date

I finally have a date for surgery, April 14,2004 will be the first day of the rest of my life, Im looking forward to the new me.Can anyone tell me what I should bring to the hospital, besides my bluebook? Thanks

congrats... my date is 21st would like alist too... chap stic, cough pillow, good normal pillow, jammies. lotion

congrats, I just spent 5 days in the ICU after my operation and then 2 days in the ward. By the way this is her husband sending this she is still in the hosp. and might come home on 04-14-04 but not sure. Oh there are a lot of pillows at the hosp that you are going to.

Congratulations both of you! I was not really needing a whole lot of anything when I was in the hospital. The 2nd day I read a LITTLE bit of a magazine but was mostly sleepy and not interested due to all the drugs. I would take the chapstick for sure, and if you think you'll be lost without it, a laptop. The usual stuff you take on trips as far as toiletries goes. I didn't feel up to standing long enough to dry my hair after a shower or put makeup on. That's saying something for me, so take it for what it's worth. A couple of ponytail holders if your hair is long will probably be sufficient. Glad to hear you both got your surgery dates! Again, congratulations! Dina

Congrats Wanda, Your gonna be on the losing side soon! Here is what I had at the hospital and it did help. Chapstick is one of the most important things, a neck pillow, anti-bacterial wipes, a picture of your family, comfortable slippers, I took a nightgown but the IV tube made it impractical. Anti-bacterial liquid soap for that shower you get before you go home. You will want to use it when you get home anyway. Hope all goes well and you heal quickly.

Congrats Wanda! Dr. Flanagan was my doc too! I took everything but the kitchen sink with me to the hospital, but had little use for any of it. I had a laptop...but my lap was full of tubes and stuff. The hospital visit will go well for you, I am sure. Dr. Flanagan is highly respected at Sacred Heart and very demanding of the nursing staff...so his patients are well attended too...and almost always get a private room. I certainly did! I think you'll sleep about 75% of the time. When I wasn't sleeping..I was doing laps around the nursing station! Honestly, I think it's different for everyone...so take what makes you feel nice and secure. You may not have any use for what you take...but at least you have it if you want it. I took about 5 different nightgowns and didn't use a single one!! The hospital gowns were so much more convienient. I'm excited for ya!! It's kind of scary...but you have a great doc...one of the best! Good luck!! -Mary P

Just had to add, Mary, YOU LOOK FANTASTIC!!!!!

Congratulations!!! I think everyone has covered it except -granny panties. Once my catheter was out I was glad I kept some oversized undies so it wasn't tight on my abdomin at all. Pillows pillows pillows. Remember that you are your best advocate...don't loose your focus because you have a date. Hospitals are remarkable places,but always be alert to ensure you get the best care! I'm 3weeks post-op myself and today is a good day! Wishing ALL the best!!! Joanna

CONGRATULATIONS WANDA!! I think the others have given you good advice. Chapstick was my buddy while I was there because of the dry lips and mouth. Slippers might be nice, for the walking. I only used the gowns from the hospital too, tried to use a robe but it got too warm walking my many laps..haha! A toothbrush for sure, it gives a welcome bit of moisture to your parched throat. Silly, but it really helps! Not much else is needed. Good luck, can't wait to hear how you're doing... ~Lynn