Question:
I am having surgery Sept. 9,1999 and wonder how 1st 2 weeks will be.

Can I climb stairs? Will I need alot of help just getting around? When can I drive? I am having this done at BTC of Michigan anyone like to talk either pre-op or post op? Im Very excited and then get a little nervous. Please E-mail [email protected] Thanks!    — colleen S. (posted on August 20, 1999)

August 20, 1999
You will be sore. You shouldn't need assistance in getting around. You should try to walk a great deal. Stairs are good exercise. No driving until your doctor says ok, usually about 3 weeks.
   — Bruce B.

August 20, 1999
My first 24-48 hours at home, I pretty much took it easy. I wasn't home alone, so if I needed help, I had someone around. My Doctor and WLS friends encouraged me to "move" as much as possible; go for a short walk, sit outside on the porch and read, whatever, which I did... and by the end of that first week, I was feeling pretty good and almost back to my normal self. Good luck on the 9th.
   — Amie R.

August 21, 1999
Hi Colleen: I'm 3 1/2 weeks post-op, open RNY. The first few days were not great. Getting out of bed the first time is tough, but it gets easier from there. I came home after 5 days, and my Mom came to stay with me. I was surprised at how much I was able to do for myself, so she took care of my family more than me. I didn't need help to get out of the recliner or anything like that. You just have to take it slow and easy. I stopped taking all pain meds 10 days post-op, and actually drove myself to my doctor's appointment (45 minutes away) on day 12. Since then, I find that if I'm out shopping or whatever one day I pretty much take it easy the next. My plan is to treat myself well while I'm healing, and to not push things too much. I've been through a lot, having this surgery, and I deserve to recover in my own time. Others I know have really pushed themselves to go go go, but I think that could be detrimental to my recovery. As an RN, I know that a certain amount of activity is necessary to rebuild strength, but that pushing yourself is not the answer. Listen to your body as you recover. Get some fresh air every day, drink as much water as you can. Do some walking. The tough part will be behind you before you know it! Good luck! Jaye Carl
   — Jaye C.