Question:
I am having my surgery on Thursday, what do I need to bring with me to the hospital?

I think I have everything I need, but the fear is kicking in and I keep thinking that I am going to forget something.    — cbellan (posted on May 22, 2000)

May 22, 2000
The only things I used after surgery that I had brought from home were my slippers, razor and a small fan (I was roasting!). The hospital provided everything else I needed including long tongs, shower stuff, etc. I packed pads in case I started my period but I didn't start.
   — Kellie L.

May 23, 2000
The hospital will provide the lovely fashion-statement gowns for you for the first day or so, then you'll probably want to put on something of your own that makes you feel a little more human...slippers and a robe for your walks down the hall...personal toiletries (deoderant, shampoo,toothpaste, mouthwash, lotion) - the hospital will probably supply their brand, but yours are sure to be nicer!...a small, portable CD player with earphones was really great for relaxation and just tuning out "hospital noises"...a blow-dryer and curling iron ( and maybe even some make-up for when you surface from the "fog" and begin to care how you look...some sugar-free hard candy or sugar-free chewing gum is nice for "dry-mouth syndrome"...I took a book, but never opened it because I stayed too drowsy to really concentrate...some loose comfortable clothes without tight waistband for discharge (however, if the hospital is fairly close to home with family/friends to do the driving, you could do what I did and just wear your gown, robe and slippers...it was much easier! Good luck!
   — Diana T.

May 23, 2000
First, fear is normal, but surprisingly, by the time the big day arrives, you just may find yourself to be surprisingly calm. Take a sleep shirt; my hospital did not have one to fit me.
   — [Anonymous]

May 23, 2000
You don't need to take much to the hospital. Something lose to wear home. Your personal needs (toothbrush,comb,pads just in case,phone numbers if you want to talk, pen and paper, they tell you lots of stuff about the surgery and you will be drowsy so write them down. Slippers. You will be home in no time. Take care and God Bless
   — Theresa B.

May 23, 2000
I know one thing i wouldnt forget.......... A Phone Card!
   — SHARRI F.

May 24, 2000
I took all kinds of stuff with me last Wednesday for my surgery, which was a waste, all I really used out of a complete suitcase was 1 nigtht gown, and my robe and slippers which I wore home from the hospital. While in the hospital I wore their gowns since it seemed to make it easier for me and for them. Best of luck on your surgery.
   — Betty W.