Recovering Slowly

Hi everyone,

I am still alive, recovering slowly.  I have been so wiped out due to the low iron level.  I wasn't able to go back to work on Thursday as scheduled.

I read on the internet that exercise is good for low iron levels.  I forced myself to take a walk yesterday and today.  It did help a little.

I have got to go back to work tomorrow, just don't know how I am going to make it.  I am really worried about it.  I will go in and do my best I guess.

The doctor say that it takes several weeks to get your energy level back.

I have an appointment with my family doctor on Wed. and a follow up appt with my surgeon on Thursday.

I am very anxious for this phase to pass.

Geoff

Just remember to listen to your body and put yourself first.   YOu had MAJOR surgery and unfortunately some complications after that.

In the long run, you'll be better than ever!!

Remember to pack your meals and keep hydrated!

Jayne

Jayne,

Thanks.

Geoff,

Going back to work is definately difficult especially this soon after surgery including complications.

Regardless of low iron etc exercise actually DOES make you feel better and DOES give you energy.  You may not feel like it, but go out and do it.

Have you been prescribed iron pills or something of that nature?  It might be something you need to help that iron level up (if you do - make sure you start taking a stool softener, it can really bind you up and that is NOOOO fun)

I know you're anxious for this phase to be over with - and one day it will be - but it takes a LOT of time.  Just remember - you have your whole life to feel GREAT and a few weeks of not feeling 100% is to be expected.

Does your boss/co workers know what kind of surgery you have had and the complications?  I'm wondering if work is a MUST to return to at this time if your surgeon would write you a letter explaining that you might need to either take breaks and/or do something like half days if that is an option for you.

Make sure you are getting your protein in.  I don't know what food stage you are in - but if you are in the pureed stage or anything later than that and can have meat - get red meat in as much as possible - it will help with your iron levels.  Meatballs...chilli...hamburger  Just make sure to try to make your own and watch the fat content.

Continued healing!

Pam

Pam,

Thanks.  I am not in a MUST situation, but have responsibilities I need to take care of.  I am planning on going into work and will do what I can for as long as I can.  I know I have to build my strength back up.

I am taking SlowFE iron pills.  I have tripled the dosage.  I am also taking B12, B Complex and Vitamin C per my NET.  I have been hearing that the iron could take up to 8 weeks to repleni****self.

I am still in the pureed soft/food stage until Thursday.  I appreciate the tip about the red meat.  I didn't realize that.  i will have to work my way up to that.

I am glad I am getting my family doctor involved this week.  Hopefully, between him, my surgeon and the NET, I will feel better soon.

Pam, thank you.
Geoff

Anytime :)