Question:
I know I can't LIFT my 25 lb toddler for 4 weeks post op, but can I HOLD her?

if someone hands her to me? Can I hug her to my body if she's standing on the couch, say, and at the right height for me to carry her? I don't want to hurt myself or cause a hernia, but it is going to be VERY hard to avoid carrying her AT ALL, so I'm trying to figure out how to work around the restrictions.    — Julia M. (posted on August 19, 2001)

August 18, 2001
By all means cuddle that sweet little baby!!!!!! My daughter was 3 and 25 lbs when I had my surgery. She was old enough to understand that mommy couldn't lift her, but she could climb carefully onto my lap and snuggle me....I spent alot if time in my recliner and she spent alot of time snuggling me and it's one of the fondest memories I have of recovering. <p> When I healed even more and was able to get onto the floor I would sometimes go there and have her hug and snuggle me. Bed was also a good place for her to cuddle and watch TV with me. I also have a 7 yr old and my 8 weeks of not lifing didn't affect them at all negatively. <p> I was still able to fix meals, lunches, play, dance carefully with them and most importantly, love them. Enjoy this time of doing nothing....you are Queen for a Day (few weeks lol) so milk it for all it's worth because when you are healed and losing you will have so much energy you will want to work. Much luck!
   — Jo C.

August 19, 2001
YES, I am 10 days post op and I just became able to pick mine up. She is 14 months old and she seemed to understand that mommy wasn't feeling well. It was so cute she would come up to me and hug me and then go off and play. I was able to hold her,as long as she was still, on top of a pillow or beside me to cuddle. Don't worry, your little one will still be able to get the love they deserve from you!!
   — ncgal

August 19, 2001
I too have a 3 yr old and he was about 35 pounds at the time of my surgery. Big boy. I was extremely worried about a hernia or him head butting me in the tummy which he use to do....he likes to run up to you and give hugs around the thighs...and his little bowling ball head would hit me just at the belly button.....so while in the hospital I showed him my owwie, and said to him that he would have to real careful with mommy because my owwie hurts...and he understood from that day forward. He would sit next to me on the recliner or on the couch....he did ask about sitting in my lap...I would tell him he couldnt because of my owwie...and I would show him again. And if he asked to be carried...I would say the same thing....but tell him he could hold my hand....and he was happy with that. I just had an appendectomy 2 weeks ago, so again I am on guard with my belly area...and he remembers. They are very smart creatures, and understand.
   — Kimberly N.