Surgery in 2020 looks totally different than any other year. Face masks are being worn by everyone – including the patient. And there are NO visitors in the hospital. That in itself can be more difficult than the surgery. Sometimes the patient needs the comfort of family and friends. With that said, preparing for surgery ahead of time could be a key factor in the recovery of the patient.
4 years ago my husband, Willy, had a hip replacement and it did not go according to plan. He then had a repair a year later…that did not work. We went to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester a year later. He had a bunch of tests done and was told that there was nothing they could do. A very sad day for both of us. Especially Willy. Has this ever happened to you?
And here we are again…
Preparing for surgery.
It is his back this time. Arthritis strikes again. He has done Physical Therapy, stretching, massage and all of the other non-invasive things. But in the past 7 months, his back has deteriorated faster than the previous 2 years.
He is having surgery in a few weeks. It's a big one….back surgery. Actually, it's 2 surgeries. They go in through his stomach on day 1. And then the 2nd day they work on all the other stuff – through his back.
As the post surgery ‘chief cook and bottle washer’ I thought you might like to know how we BOTH prepare for surgery. Because if you are not prepared there is a potential for physical and emotional disaster.
First off…
we are both going to quarantine 2 weeks prior to the surgery….just to make sure he does not get Covid ahead of time. There really isn't much we can do about Covid after the surgery and while he is in the hospital. Everyone will be taking the utmost precautions – that is all we can expect and hope for.
Wishing you all the best with the surgery. You and your husband will be in my prayers.
Thanks so much Susan!
I will be praying for you both. I’ve had several surgeries because of arthritis but not one like your husband will be going through. I’m also in the process of getting tests done for a possible hip surgery so I appreciate your list! The most important part of our list is the prayer and depending on God!
Thanks so much Beth – I really appreciate it.
Jane such a great list for both of you. Will be praying for Wiley’s surgery to provide him relief. As you know Jerry has had many surgeries and I couldn’t agree more with your priorities. With all this COVID mess, prepare your heart for being alone during the time of surgery with no one there to come along side you I.e son or daughter to comfort you. We know God is there with us but it is hard. Not being able to be with him and advocate for him while in the hospital has its own problems. Also you will need to quarantine after as well with strong precautions. Just going through all this with Jerry’s lung cancer and lobe removal. You are right about an electric recliner. We finally were able to find one as his strength was limited and still is . I forgot when we didn’t have power for a day that our recliner wouldn’t work. We didn’t buy the battery backup because it was extra. Oh well. Lessons always being learned.
Call me if you want to talk.
Thanks so much Marge – I know you have been through a LOT. I will definitely call if I need to talk…aka vent. I just found out that I CAN be in the hospital. From 9-5. That helps so much. I have my knitting all ready…gotta get those baby sweaters done for Nicole and Zach!
We have been and will continue to pray for you both. Since we “been there, done that,” we truly understand. You know how to reach us. If you need us we will be there in 6 or 7 hours. If there is anything we can do remotely, please call. All our love!
Thanks so much Dick!
We have been and will continue to pray for you both. Since we “been there, done that,” we truly understand. You know how to reach us. If you need us we will be there in 6 or 7 hours. If there is anything we can do remotely, please call. All our love!
Thanks so much – I will definitely keep you in the loop. Love you both.