Flying - 24 days after VSG

Hi Again

I recently found out my best friends illness has turned into the worst kind of outcome. Devastated but determined to be there for him.

He lives 3 hr flight away and I have set a goal to go see him after work on the Thursday- 24 days after my surgery. Work the Friday from his home and spend the weekend with him. I am taking 2 weeks off work after my sleeve but am lucky enough to have a great boss who is very flexiable in relation to working from home

It will be a very quiet visit as he is so unwell. All I may need to do is some laundry and would love to do some cooking for him to put in the freezer. Maybe a drive if he feels up to it.

My question is - am I being unrealistic? Things that concern me are:

Ensuring I stay hydrated - it is a far warmer climate than were I am from

Being able to manage the stage of my eating that I am at

Having healed enough that I dont end up being a burdon on him and he feels he has to take care of me - rather than me of him

Would love some feedback from anyone who has done similar within that time frame. And anything I should be careful of etc

Many thanks from Wintery Australia

Shirley

At 24 days, you'll be fine.

Stay hydrated. You'll still be tired halfway through the day, so plan on taking naps.

Remember, you'll still be on lifting restrictions, which is usually no more than 10 pounds for 6 to 8 weeks. That'll probably be your biggest workaround.

Thanks so much Grim :) I hadnt thought of the lifting restrictions.... the naps shouldnt be a problem as he naps each afternoon to re-charge

Shirley

I agree, you'll be fine. I traveled 3wks after surgery and like the previous reply said, you'll be exhausted some days and need to take a nap.

I'd be more concerned about your emotional capacity along with the changes in your eating, (or drinking I should say). Your doctor may still have you on liquids by then.

So sorry about your friend's illness.

Deb

Thanks Deb :)

Emotional its going to be extremely tough as we have been friends since we were 4 ! Im blessed to have him in my life and determined to be there as much as I can to care and support him.

My plan is to fly up once a month or more if I can manage to spend quality time with him.

Shirley

So sorry about your friend Shirl. I can't give advice but can always give support. If you have any struggles just put them out there and lets us support and encourage any way we can.

Thanks Ambec :) I appreciate it

Shirley

I would have been able to do this at 24 days post-op. I would request wheelchair service and be aware of your weight limitations for carrying.

Thanks Gwen :)

Yes I will be careful with the weight I pack and ask for help if I need too with loading etc

Shirley

I agree you should be able to do this. Check your bag and don't try to carry much on. Take some protein food of whatever you are approved for at the time. I drink tomato juice or mild on airplanes.

I had a friend whom I knew was dying so I made a special trip like this to see her. She died about 4 months later. I didn't go the funeral as the travel arrangements are difficult but so glad I made that last trip. You will be glad to.

You might ask your surgeon about this. Diane S