New to this wonderful site...

I will be having a TAH on Feb. 4th, 2003. I am anemic at the moment and extremely concerned about the surgery because of this. I do not want a blood transfusion. Has anyone gone through this fear?

Hi, I'm new too and also am having a TAH on Feb. 4. I too am anemic, but my gyn said it shouldn't be a problem (10) and I'm taking iron with vitamins until my surgery to get even stronger.

I am conflicted. I want this surgery and feel it will be a good thing, but I am also very frightened and am thinking very bad thoughts. Usually I'm a postive thinker, but I can't help feeling very stressed about this... This site has helped me though and I hope everyone prays or sends good thoughts my (our) way on our surgery dates.

If you are that concerned about needing a blood transfusion maybe you should have someone you know give blood in the event that it is needed. I am 10 days post-op and I hope that you both understand that we are all scared pre-op. It is the concensus here that waiting is the hardest part. I have to agree...I almost chickened out 3 days before my surgery. The sisters here are so kind. Read their words and talk about your fears...it does help.

(((Estrellita))),

I didn't worry about a transfusion, as I know it is rarely needed. But, I have seen many posts here from sisters who have "banked" their own blood, or that of a friend or family member, just on the chance it would be needed.

Do you have someone close, as Wendy suggested, who could donate for your surgery?

It is so normal to be feeling unsettled about your upcoming surgery. Many of us have even had our symptoms seemingly disappear - only to return stronger than ever just before surgery. The mind is a powerful thing.

Try to use your remaining time preparing for your castle visit and recovery at home. Take some time to get a massage, do some shopping, etc. Treat yourself like the princess you will soon be. Keep reading and posting here - it is a great way to pass pre and post time.

s and best wishes to you. Waiting truly is the hardest part!

It has really helped me to read here that: "The waiting is the hardest part". I find myself thinking of that phrase every time I start to worry about Feb. 4th!

It's good that you are taking vitamins and iron, I am too, but still feel weak and tired all of the time.

You can be sure that I am praying for you!

**Little Star**

Thanks so much for your replies, they have helped me a lot!

I will be asking my Doctor when I have my appointment with him on Jan. 31st about the blood donation. I did inquire at one of the labs here in my town, but was told that if any of my brothers or sister donated blood, it would be put into the blood bank, and instead, If I did need a blood transfusion, I would be given someone else's blood. This sure doesn't make sense to me, so I will ask the Doctor just to make sure.

Thank you again for your concern. All of you ladies, and this site is a blessing!

**Little Star**

Hi,

I was scared like you too...the waiting is the HARDEST part...I asked my Dr. too about blood transfusion...he said it is rare to get one...I am 10 day post op...I feel great..been driving for a week, taking baths and doing everything I want EXCEPT lifting...No sex for 6 weeks.. You will do just fine..try to relax...I know that is hard to do though...but take it from me a whimp...the waiting is the hardest part.
Linda

When I went I for Pre-Op last week, I was told I couldn't donate my own blood. My doctor had warned me this might happen because I have had a seriously decreased appetite for the last 6 weeks due to digestive issues, and my iron level is too low to let my own blood be used for myself. I know it's extremely rare for transfusions to be needed, but, happily, my best friend is compatible and on stand-by should it be necessary.
Still, while I sometimes feel so under control with preparations, there are times (especially late at night, in the quiet and darkness ) I get jittery. Things look better in the light of day to me.
My date is 1/29...TAH/BSO, and I'm more than ready physically. Just trying now to get in the right mindset. I have to say this community has done so much to alleviate my nervousness..
You're all the best!
Holly

Thanks. I too have read the replies to your initial post and it was a huge relief to know that everyone goes through the pre-op jitters. I'll pray for you too and for all the sisters in waiting and who are recovering.
Take care!
Julie