Surgery in 2 weeks I need some help please!!

I'm having my surgery at PNH. I still have not had my pr op appointment. What so I need for the hospital and for when I get home? I have a mental list, but I would like someone who has beenthere to let me know exactly what I need so I don't over pack. Lip stuff, a pillow, slippers. I'm working almost every day up to my pre op bowel prep so I need to do a little every evening to get my house, family and myself put together before the big day! I'm getting really scared and I am trying to stay excited and psyched.  SherylLynn

SherylLynn- When I was in the hospital, the only thing I remember using is the pillow...especially during walks and on the ride home. Honestly, they take such good care of you and you''re a bit out of it that you won't need much, maybe your own toothbrush/hairbrush if you're particular about those things. Remember loose fitting set of clothes (prefer no waist...like a sundress) for the way home...You're going to do great!  As for when you get home....make sure you have some proteins and whatever stage food your Dr. sends you home on (liquids, puree, etc.). You may also want to anticipate not wanting to get in and out of bed. If you have a recliner, make sure it's in an area you can sleep in (as in not the living room if you have early risers/night owls...unless you don't care for being woken up). If you don't, you'll make whatever you have work for you. I used the couch for about a week with several pillows...just needed help getting up for potty breaks and walking sessions.  Hope that helps...I'm sure others will chime in.

Hi SherylLynn, The things I used the most was lip balm, toothbrush and tooth paste (for the time when you are waiting for your swallow test, dry mouth) Pillow for sure, a robe to cover your tushy, and slippers to walk in.  That is all I remember I used, the rest of it stayed in my bag.  Good luck, and I will be thinking of you.  Don't be scared, they are wonderful surgeons, and work together always.  The anesthesiologists are really caring and listen.  You will be well taken care of.  Just remember, the more you walk the faster you will get out of there.  Plus it really feels good to walk after.  Lisa

SherylLynn, The hospital usually take good care of you and really Christina told you everything that happened to me too - so you don't need much at all. It is natural to feel scared, we all did but once you have your pre-op the doctor or nurse will go over what you need to have and anything you need to do. I am sure you are going to do just fine! It is a very exciting time and your journey is about to start - and trust me  - it will be the wildest ride of your life! Jackie

The only things I used every day while in the hospital were lip balm, a robe to coverup my backside while taking my walk and slippers.  :)  Other than that and a toothbrush, i really didn't need anything else.  The time you are there flys by. Once you get home, I made sure to set myself up a little area in the living room with everything in reach.  I was NOT able to bend down in any way and felt fairly immobile, so unless it was close by, I had to ask my husband to help me.  I put a phone, the remotes, my laptop, my water all within close reach.  And I tried to straighten up the house as best I could so I wasn't sitting there looking around being frustrated.  :)

SherylLynn I have to agree with Lisa S. Those are probably the things I recommended to her! Give Mrs. Boone a call to ask about your preop. How about preparing yourself mentally, physically now? Are you drinking with a straw, drinking soda, stopping your fluids 30 before/30 after meals? Increase your protein...either by protein drinks or  by food...yogurts, cheese, lean meats. It will help you with healing post op. Keep us posted on your progress!

Good am SherlLynn, You've gotten some great answers thus far. For me, I mainly focused on comfy clothing, hairbrush & hair tie and deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush and a pillow for the trip home. You might consider making out a "to do list" for those who want to help you out. Make sure you've got all you need BEFORE you go in for surgery and everything basically at arms length. Scared, excited and psyched are ALL normal! We're here so let us know if there are other things you need! If not, before surgery then we're here after as well. All best!

Thank you all so much! You all ROCK!!!  I'm really close with my Mom and I have not told her so I guess that is probably what all my nervousness is all about. I so appreciate everyone's help and encouragement!! Thanks again! SherylLynn