Indiana Pouch

Yes, 2 years out and I still remember. I had the epidural for pain for about 5 days. After they gave me some happy meds that didn't take me to the movies but swept me away to Martha's Vineyard! Guess I was having too much fun there because they switched the meds on me.

I would always have a pillow to brace against my abdomen when I went from a sitting to standing position. It helped a lot. Also had the same pillow when I went home to help cushion the seat belt. But taking it slow was the name of the game.

Sleeping helps you heal. Take advantage of this time. Each day you will get stronger. Pat is right - it will get better.

Best,
Gracie

Ah yes the getting up part!!!..Roll...to the side first...and hopefully you have someone to help you get out of the bed. They cut that muscle and OUCH....ahh..the memories!!
Have someone bring you a pack of chewing gum...it helps get the bowels active...just don't swallow the gum. Nausea happens but is usually well controlled with one of the drugs...i had a script to bring them home with me as it would continue on and off for a couple of weeks but i remember it made me sleepy.
You got the nerve block right? Are they giving you anything else now? Any of those drugs will have you going to the movies...i made many trips apparently!!
It will get better. Promise.
pat

Well, the surgery is complete. I'm four days out. I think I feel sicker today than yesterday. And of course, I haven't passed any gas. I would love a glass of iced tea. They ask if the pain is manageable. Do we have a choice? I'm feeling a bit of nausea today. They just gave me something for that, hopefully it will kick in soon. What I wasn't accustomed to was my fuzzy thinking. My son called and asked what I was doing, I said we went to the movies. I don't know where that came from. Possibly a dream. I sleep an awful lot and yet I have these really large black circles around my eyes. I can walk without any difficulty, that one for the plus side. Now, getting up from laying to sitting is whole different story.

Linda,

So glad we had chance to talk; I am here for you to help in whatever way I can; sometimes we just need to hear the reassurance of others who have been there an done that. If you feel so inclined, please give me your home address on a P.M. and I will mail out to you some "get well" "stay strong" cards, etc., info. and samples that might be of help to you. Keep a strong, optimistic attitude and you will be fine. You will be in my prayers...on my daily list but especially tomorrow during your sugery time. God bless and take care. Hugs being sent to you.

Good choice Linda. I was just guessing as i remember Dr. Huang from my visit to USC/Norris some geez..9 yrs ago now.
Dr. Hrebinko seems to be very popular with his patients and is also rated as one of the Best Docs in Castle Connolly and i'm always looking for someone who can do the Indiana.
I wish you the best. Please know that everyone experiences it a bit differently..and you will do well with this diversion.
Happy Go-Lytely to you
pat

Linda,

I have sent you a pm (personal message) so check your inbox for mail; put my work and home phone number, and if you don't get me, please leave a message with your ph. number and I will try my best to reach you.

Certainly you have a lot on your mind; and probably moreso, after reading our recent posts. We just want you to have the best care possible and to be as prepared as you can for the challenges ahead. I'm not qualified to comment on the qualifications of any of the surgeons, not even my own, but I do believe one should feel completely comfortable about their doctor and as good as they possibily can about what may happen during surgery. I am a person of faith and prayed alot about that subject, and by the time I was three days away from surgery, a complete peace about it settled over me. I was completely at peace and very much at ease when I checked into the hosptial the night prior and did not need anything to relax me. If I had not been at peace, I would have cancelled the appointment.

Linda, I'll check my phone throughout the day. Wishing you all the best and you are in my prayers...especially tomorrow.
God bless. Hugs to you.