Gown or pjs - what to take?

Thanks so much to those who have responded! I will keep you girls that are "ladies in waiting" this weekend like myself in my prayers as well!

Jane (52 years young)
TVH scheduled

[i]Hi girls! I am going to the castle on Tuesday 02/26. They want me there at 5:15!!! My surgery is at 7:15...why the 2 hour wait? It is Saturday afternoon and I am already packing my stuff for the castle. I am actually excited because I have had problems since I was 27 and I am now 37.

God bless everybody and may you all have a speedy successful recovery. Thanks for all the wonderful tips on this site.
Sharon in VA

I had over-packed. We're in the hospital such a short time; All I used was my toothbrush and paste, facial cleansing pads, never felt like taking a shower, one night gown, chapstick, homeopathic remedies ( I had to hide these), neck pillow. I used the hospital's grippy socks, and their pads - which weren't as huge as other people have described. Didn't watch TV, didn't have the energy to read, used my iPod once, talked to the friends where were staying with me in shifts, went for walks, and to the bathroom, and ate. Didn't have painful gas, while in the castle, so never used the anti-gas meds. 48 hours total.

I had a TAH/BSO on Jan 8. I packed a lot of stuff, but only used a few things: my own tea bags (I like a specific variety), life savers (I had a tickle in my throat and coughing wasn't a lot of fun), lip balm, toothbrush and toothpaste, body lotion, a paperback novel, and clothes to wear home (mesh panties supplied by the hospital, regular bra, soft sweat pants, roomy shirt, slip-on shoes). I wore a second hospital gown as a robe while walking the halls and didn't bother with shoes. I did not put my contacts in at all -- I don't like to sleep at all with mine in, and I napped quite often during the day. I didn't shower while in the hospital, just a sponge bath, so I didn't need my shower supplies. I watched TV quite a bit (Gilmore Girls, old TV shows like I Love Lucy, etc.), but I did read my novel (very light romance -- no heavy thinking involved!). I expected to want my bra on for most of my stay, but I didn't put it on until right before going home. It was very uncomfortable hooking it in the front and then sliding it around -- really pulled on the tender abdomen. If you can manage it, try to put it on and reach around to hook it in the back or bring a front clasp bra if you have one. I also wish I had brought my flannel pajama/lounge pants instead of sweatpants, because they've been more comfortable overall. I'm glad I had all my other stuff with me, even though I didn't use it -- just for peace of mind.

Annie

Sharon...I think 2 hours is the norm. Give time to get you checked in, hooked to the IV, some calming meds, get your vitals checked etc.

Definitely glasses not contacts, and I did read there. I also brought a sudoku book. I brought my own nightgown, never wore it, but my own robe was great. DO packa pillow to hold over your tummy when you walk and to go under the seatbelt on teh way home.
Deb