Question:
How much help will I need post-op w/2 kiddos?

I'm sched for open BPD/DS on 11/11. The hospital is 2hrs from my home, so my hubby will be taking that week off. My sis will be in town for weeks 1-2 post op - will I need someone home with me weeks 3&4? I know my mom-in-law would help, but we don't plan on telling the in-laws about my surgery. Will I be okay, relying on friends & neighbors weeks 3-4 to taxi the kids around, etc., or should we tell my my-mom-inlaw? Any suggestions will be appreciated! Thanks!    — Anne F. (posted on September 11, 2002)

September 11, 2002
It kind of depends on how old your kids are. The first two weeks are the worst. By week three I was pretty much getting back to normal. But that doesn't mean I could have cared for a toddler. If your children are school age and can pretty much do things for themselves with your supervision, then I think you'll be fine. If you have children under four, you may need some help. Lifting them might be a problem. If you have a nanny of baby sitter, you might want to ask her if she wouldn't mind being on call. Hope this helps.
   — Sarah K.

September 11, 2002
Anne---My kids had just turned 5 and 2 when I had my surgery. The went to daycare everyday for the first 3 weeks. My mom picked them up, brought them to my house and made dinner for my family every night for these 3 weeks. I was able to do some light cleaning...more as the time progressed and my husband was a lifesaver during this time. You will need alot of help. As far as your inlawas are concerned. I do not know why you dont want to inform them, but I am sure they would be more than willing to help. And in my case, had I not told them, they would have been upset with me. : )
   — RebeccaP