Preparing for surgery
In preparation for surgery, I’ve found a website that has been very helpful to me. It is called HysterSisters. The name is self-explanatory. As with any site, I read through it carefully. The internet tends to be the place where people post their worst stories and I try not to read those stories. (A couple of years ago, I found stories about root canals that had me convinced I would be dead in a short while. At 2am and in pain, those stories are quite convincing.) Of course, things could turn out badly, but the vast majority of surgeries go very well. I intend to fully recover and return in even better shape to my very enjoyable life.
At HysterSisters, I signed up for a newsletter that keeps me apprised of various checkpoints, both pre and post op. Today’s newsletter had some great tips for preparing for surgery. As with impending childbirth, we are forging full steam ahead in cleaning our house, stocking up on supplies and groceries and dealing with postponed paperwork. I’ve got friends and family lined up to help out with various things. What a blessing it is to know that someone cares enough to call and offer a meal or a ride for my kids! I can’t wait to return the favors. It is a joy to help each other, I think. My biggest realistic worry is Kirby. I will have to stay away from our 105 pound puppy; he could literally injure me with his loving ways. My biggest unrealistic worry is confirmed by this suggestion from HysterSisters:
It’s common to have fears about your upcoming surgery. This is a time to share your feelings and thoughts with those you love. If you don’t keep a journal yet, maybe now is the time to begin. Writing out your biggest fears can be a comforting exercise.
We know many HysterSisters who write letters to each of their children, their parents, their husband and tuck them away.
Comfort may be found by reading your favorite scriptures. HysterSisters has a Prayer Request Forum for those who would be helped by sharing there as well.
Our Favorite Scriptures:
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.” (Psalm 91:4)
“The Lord bless you and keep you: The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you: The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6: 24-26)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
My wife had a hysterectomy last November. She did have to take it easy for a few weeks after the surgery, but only had a slight infection problem at the site (she had another procedure done at the same time which also may have been part of the problem).
Part of the blessing for her perhaps is that I’m a cook at a Bible School and we didn’t have to worry about meals!
I’ll be praying for you.
TK says: Thanks, Dean!
Hi TK,
Are you having laproscopic surgery? As (I think) you know, I had a laproscopic hysterectomy last summer, and it was GREAT! I was home by 1 pm the same day, rested in bed pretty much for one day and night, and was up and about the following day. By a week later, I was pretty much back to my old routine–two weeks after surgery I was my old self–only BETTER! No more anemia and no more monthly you-know-whats! I have to say, this may be the best phase of my life.
Praying for you and yours–especially that your outcome is as happy as mine!
Love, Suzi
Thanks for the encouragement. Yes, they will try to do it laproscopically. They suspect I have many adhesions, though, from my infection last fall, so it may take longer. Also, they don’t know what my ovaries are up to, so that is unclear right now. I will be in the hospital for at least one night if surgery follows the best scenario. I am hoping for that, though there will still be the 6 week restrictions on lifting, pulling, pushing and a couple of other things. ;(
My fear of surgery is outweighed by my hope for a much better future! I am glad to hear your story. I guess I forgot that you had the same thing.