I have a few humble suggestions for your upcomming surgery...
Try not to gain too much weight before surgery
Make sure you buy everything you need for post op ... foods ect, having it all at the house makes it easier to manage after surgery for everyone... Peace of mind knowing you have what you need, you dont need to take too much to the hospital, something comfy like a robe is good, some magazines or a book... I spent a lot of time sleeping.
i am a popsicle junkie now.... they are amazing
Your tastes will change... I hate to eat right now ... so My best advise is to enjoy everything you put in your mouth now ... there is a grieving process after surgery when all you are eating is liquids... YOU wish you could eat, you crave, foods ... want something crunchy ... yummier ... not sloshy!
Buy something roomy and comfortable to wear.... I wore my nightgown for 5 days.... I washed it every other day and put it back on.... it was comforting and feelt good
You wont have a lot of energy after surgery ... make sure you have a good support system in place. People to pamper you....
Your body will hurt
Not just where your incision is ... but other places too, the anesthesia makes things inside you uncomfortable... They pump a lot of gas into your abdomen...
Find someone who gives good foot rubs. They are very relaxing and comforting. I didnt really enjoy foot rubs before... But It was a place on my body that didnt hurt... and its great for circulation.
You may find yourself discouraged when others eat around you... I know I do. or when food commercials come on TV.... and it seems like every comercial has food in it~~
Just go to another room.
I am a chef by trade ... so this is a bit of a shock to me. This not liking food thing. I think though when I can eat more "normal" foods it will be easier.
Take as much time off as you can... Suggested re-coop time is 6 weeks.
A few days before surgery I cut 8 inches off my hair and donated it to a cancer charity "locks of love" It felt great, and Its much easier to take care of now... Not saying this if for everyone... But it sure did help me
My last little bit of advise for now... You can tell yourself that, hey - I know I am going through this life changing operation ... and yeah... My new life is going to be so different. You can think that in your mind all you want... BUT
You wont
FEEL IT
Till you wake up on the other side.
Hope this helps!
Huggs
Jenn