TAH: 16 Days and counting

Got home last night from the consult. Total travel time on the train was 3.5 hours. I decided that it would be best to drive down for the surgery.

My doc wanted to schedule me for this Thursday, but that just wasn't enough time to plan and take care of stuff. Soooo we are heading back down on the 22nd to be there for pre-op early on the 23rd, then surgery on the 24th.

Due to prior surgeries, she will need to do a vertical incision rather than a horizontal. I was really hoping for a horizontal, but guess it doesn't matter that much since I don't wear bikinis and don't walk around showing my belly Just hoping it'll heal nicely, and there won't be a nasty scar.

I'm not as nervous as one would think. Right now, I'm trying to figure out who is going to take care of my cats while I'm gone, making lists of things to bring down, gotta get the car in for new tires before the trip, call my school to get the ball rolling on my medical LOA, make sure my BF takes time off of work, etc. Once I get all the details finished, I'm sure that's when the anxiety over the actual surgery will set in.

I must say I got a lot of ideas from other sisters about questions to ask, things to bring and have at home, and very much enjoyed the funny post-op tales. Bless you all. I'm glad to have you along on this journey with me...not only those who are going through it now, but also those who have gone through it already and share your wisdom.

It sounds like you have many things under control. I pray that the weather also cooperates for your drive. Be well.

biggums

Hi there,

I had a vertical incision about 4 weeks ago and I seem to be doing very well even compared to sisters who had less "invasive" procedures. My incision is approx. 6 inches, finishing in my navel.

Just be careful not to carry any weight afterwards, and one tip I can give you is don't be tempted to bend over to pick anything off the floor, not even a piece of paper. I did this unthinkingly in the hospital, trying to pick up my pen, and it was extremely painful!

After a couple of uncomfortable nights at home I started using a pillow to rest my tummy against in bed (I sleep on my side) and that helped a lot.

There's no right way to feel. You may be very nervous when the time arrives, but maybe not. This site is such a help at that nervous time, pre-op. Since coming home I have felt very positive and not at all sentimental about losing my uterus. Just glad to feel so much better. But other sisters feel sad and empty. Just accept the way you feel.

All the best,

Fox xx

Thank you Biggums...I hope the weather cooperates as well. It's going to be a long enough trip as it is

I'm so glad to hear you're recovering well Foxx...I've seen so many positive recovery stories which is very encouraging.