Date moved up!

There is a twist to why my hysterectomy date went from November 29 to August 2. First of all, I've been having bleeding problems for nearly a month now with no relief from the birth control pills I take. Friday, we went to visit some relatives and when we got there, I was a mess (I don't want to be too graphic). That has continued since.
So, I call my doctor this morning to tell them the problem. The nurse (the dr's wife) calls back and said that the doctor can no longer do the surgery b/c he has a heart problem and can't do surgeries anymore! She then told me that I'd have to see his partner. I'd basically have to start all over with him. He'd have to see me for a diagnosis appt and then he'd decide on the operation or not.
I don't even know that doctor. I've seen him in the halls a couple times, but that's it. I decided to call my ob/gyn that I had that referred me to the other doctor (an RE). He was trained by the RE, so I feel like I'm in good hands.
I told him the problems with bleeding I'm having and he said it sounds like it is time for it to come out. He ran through a list of things that we could try, but we've already done all that.
So, I have just over a week to prepare. I'm nervous as anything. I went with my mom to the store tonight to get my nightgown (not granny gowns, but more like tshirt material). I also got pads to cover the incision and granny panties. My mom had her TAH a year ago, so she knows what I need. I also got some shampoo and lotion for the hospital.
The new hospital is more expensive than the other one. Why is that? Plus, we have to pay everyone seperately whereas the other one was all in one. I am a bit frustrated, but what can I do?
So, that's that. I thought I had 4 months and now I have 8 days. We are going out of town again this weekend, so hopefully it will keep my mind off of things.
Any advice as to what I need to do now? I'm changing my surgery date on my checkpoints email.

Hi klarinetist,

It sure sounds like things have not gone well for your lately. It also sounds like your mother will be a lot of help while you prepare and recover from your surgery. I hope everything goes smoothly for you and you are home recovering well real soon.

I know around here, that different hospitals do have different billing methods. Some hospitals are teaching hospitals and others are not. Different hospitals are run by different organizations. It sounds like you know what to expect, and that will help you prepare for the financial responsibilities that come with this (or any) surgery.

Best Wishes,
,
Kay

You know, in some ways this might be easier... I know with my hysterectomy, I had over 3 months to think, think, think..... But a year later when my docs and I decided to do the hematoma surgery, the surgeon said, "You can come in tomorrow for this if you want." Yikes! I did wait about 10 days, but it was kind of nice to have the decision made quickly.

One thing is for sure -- you'll only get done what really needs to get done before surgery, and that's fine. And kudos and extra for your mom, who I think is going to be a great ally for you and will understand what you're going through. That can make all the difference.

Thanks ladies! I'm getting really nervous and having some second thoughts. That's normal, right? I'm not debating the fact that this needs to be done (as I sit in pain right now). I'm just mourning the loss of my parts. I know they're just parts, but now I know what women mean when they say that they feel like less of a woman.
My mom is being really supportive. My little sister is helping me as well. In fact, they were the ones pushing this to happen before I go back to teach for the year. My little sister is a teacher too and said she couldn't handle the surprise periods I've been having while teaching. That's a major concern for me too.
I am thrilled that I have less time to think about it. I think that would have gotten the better of me. I would have canceled or gone nuts!
After having slept on it, the only nerves (other than the ones about losing my parts) are over the issue of a long term sub for me at school and what I have them teach the kids right at the beginning of the year.
Thanks again!

Hi,
I had been told my TAH would be in Oct but the surgery scheduler called me on the 10th of July and scheduled for the 20th ha surprise.. ok at first I just freaked. but I was good to not have to sit and just think about it forever. I wanted to back out but knew I needed it done. I no longer had periods just one neverending one. I never mourned the loss of my parts since they seemed to not like me much. You're lucky to have your mom there for support and all will be fine you will see.

Rachel

Hi Klarinetist

You and I have the same date!

Don't worry if everything is done because I know even if I get everything done I wanted to, when this is all said and done I will look and see something I forgot. Lol. I am trying to learn to take everything in stride. Beleive me it will all work out. I stayed so stressed out about everything I need to get done before this happens to the point I was getting cranky and it was effecting everyone around me. I am one of those people who is an organizational freak. I think most women are just naturally like that anyway. We are caregivers to everyone. I think it is great your mother is there to help you. Mom's overlook their children so I know you will be in good hands. Good luck with your surgery and keep us posted on how you are doing!
Liz