14 Days Away

Hi everyone-I can't beleive it. In only 14 days I will be on the losing side. I'm so excited. My wife, however is between nervous and scared. I've been trying to reassure her that everything will be fine and I will be fine. She's especially afraid that she will do something wrong when I get home after the surgery. I've been telling her that she will not do anything wrong and all I need for her to do is just be by my side the same way she has been since we first discussed me having the surgery. Any suggestions on how to calm her down would be appreciated. Jesse

You're right Jesse, your wife doesn't need to do anything other than be there by your side. The majority of what has to be done, has to be done by you. But having someone by your side who's willing to help you in whatever you need is priceless. If she wants tangible things to do, here are a couple of ideas: 1 - While you're in the hospital, have her be your walking coach. She should make sure you get up and move around - the more you move around, the sooner they'll let you go home! 2 - Also while in the hospital - have her be your advocate. Each person acts different under morphine, so if you're too groggy to ask for what you need, have her be your mouth piece. She can make sure you get your protein drink (usually Promote) and have her watch to see they don't put sugar laden things on your tray like soda, juice or sugared jello. I had trouble with getting ice chips and i.v. bags changed and my M-I-L was my lioness. She got things taken care of! 3 - Once your home, if she likes to cook, ask her to make some chicken and/or beef broth. - the fresh stuff always tastes better than the packets! Again, she should be your walking coach, each day you need to get up and move around, the more you start move, the quicker you'll heal. I'm sure her biggest fear is for you to come out of surgery safely. Just tell her to place her trust in her higher power and think of all the fun things you'll be able to do together when you're thinner. The future can only be brighter! Good luck and be sure to let us know how you're doing, once you're on the other side! Denise