On my own...

I've just starting the approval process for an open R&Y, and I was wondering how much are you typically able to do on your own right after the surgery? I'm relatively new to Dayton and I don't have close friends or family here. I have some concerns about needing help while I'm in the hospital and perhaps the first few days at home. What can I do to get things ready for when I come home? Should I hire someone to be with me? Thanks! SueZQ

Hi Sue, I'm two weeks post op. I had a lap RNY. I'm single and my family is out of town and I didn't have friends who could stay with me once I got home, although I did have people checking in by phone or quick drop-ins each day. For the first two to three days I was home, what I really needed was someone who could nurse/mother me. I would think with an open, this might even be more desirable. Besides looking at hiring a nurse, take a look at some other options too. Try to hook up with some Dayton residents on this board, and check out the WLS support groups associated with your doctor and community - you may be able to get some ideas from them and will also get lots of support. Don't forget reaching out to a neighbor or neighbors for help, too -- and your church community if you have one -- they really were so wonderful for me, it just took a little courage on my part to ask for help when I needed it. Good luck as you continue to move through this awesome process!

Thanks, Diana. I hadn't really thought about asking someone from a group to help me. I will consider it. I live in an apartment complex and I say "hello" to my neighbors on my way in and out, but I don't really know much about them. My life here has been a routine of go to work, go home, and go back to work. Sometimes people invite me to do things, but I feel so self conscious and uncomfortable that most of the time I find some excuse for not going. I try to make myself go sometimes, because I'm afraid they'll stop asking. This surgery is the first real hope I've had for having a normal life.

When my husband and I moved to Columbus area from Seattle 6 years ago I had to have my gallbladder removed. We had only been living here a month. I called a local church and asked if they had anyone who was home during the day that would be willing to come and watch my children. It took a lot for me to allow a total stranger into my home to care for my kids, but my husband had just started a new job and we had no one else to depend on. They sent out someone and it all worked out beautifully. In hind-sight, I would do it again if I had to. This is something you may want to consider. The lady who helped me out didn't have a job and she was happy for something to do. ~~Jaimee

Hi Jaimee, Sometimes it's hard for me to ask people for help. Frankly, I don't like being in a position where I am dependent on someone else for something important because I don't know if I can trust them to follow through. I've been burned too many times. I'm glad things worked out for you and I wish you well. Thanks for taking the time to write me and sharing your experiences. SueZQ

Sue I live in Fairborn. Who is doing your surgery? I am being banded 8 Sep at OSU. Sandy

Sandy, I went to an info session with Dr. Maguire's group last week. He was up front about all the risks and possible side effects, so I'm going into this with my eyes open. I've asked around and he has a reputation for doing good work and thorough followup after surgery. I just had my psych evaluation today and the office will be scheduling my meeting with the dietitian soon. I hope all goes well for you during your surgery. SueZQ

if you are in an apt then things should be pretty close together for you-line up your post op med needs- change the bed sheets and run the vacuum BEFORE surgery cuz you won't be able to after! (vac is bad for tummy muscles!)---stock up on apple juice and white grape juice which you can water down--sugar free popsicles will be a godsend the first few weeks-- i drank decaf green tea too-- some of us have trouble getting either very cold or very hot liquids down---you really won't feel up to company probly--if you have letters to write or a fave movie to watch--you will want to be walking--even if it's around the apt!!! um-chix or beef broth .... are you having open or lap?? i had open and had a houseful as my kids lived here with grandbaby and she couldn't understand why nonnie couldn't pick her up!!!! do you have pets? they will need to be looked after --and explained to why they can't jump into your lap!!! asking for help from local support is a great idea--and from your surgeons office-- some ppl like to have a reclining chair to sleep in --i couldn't imagine the thought of bending my belly to get the darned thing to recline!!! and we don't own one! don't know if any of this helps!!!!

Thank you!