da Vinci Complete Hyst., 5th week

I am 41 years of age. I had the da Vinci procedure on 01/15/10, complete hysterectomy. Out of 25 biopsies they found Stage 1A ovarian cancer and Stage 1B uterus cancer. I am waiting for MD Anderson's recommendation on treatment, if any at all. I am in my fifth week of recovery. I was hoping I would be back to my routine after 4 weeks. My frustration is leading to depression and I do not want to take medications for depression. I am having anxiety about getting back to work, being able to make commitments, just getting back on my feet. Is this all normal? Should I be trying to do more to regain my strength and get back to my day to day?

JM, just wanted to wish you well! I can understand that the waiting is frustrating. How are you feeling physically?

Thank you Barb. I have a good day, then a bad day. I tried to go back to work yesterday and came home exhausted. I tire easily. The incisions are still very tender and ache. Nauseas at times, but no loss of appetite.

I tire easily too. By dinnertime I am done (and I work from home, so it must be much worse for people who must leave home to work and not have a couch to rely on when needed!) I'm hoping soon to get my energy back.

My incisions are a little tender and sometimes achy too, but it's getting better.

I think right now you have to just take a deep breath and try to take it one day at a time. You are going through so much that it can be overwhelming. I imagine it has to be a nerve wracking time but hopefully everything will work out. Sending lots of hugs and good wishes.