The things I am SO glad I did pre op...

I was thinking as I brushed my teeth this evening how pleased I am that I had my teeth checked, cleaned and whitened before my hip operation, I had not realised the restrictions to dental work pre op, this provoked some thought as to all the things I am happy I did before this operation:

1) Teeth checked at least twice, cleaned and whitened (if needed or desired)

2) A 'gel' pedicure ~ mine has lasted for 12 weeks, and even in the moments I didn't feel human looking at my feet was a constant pleasure and reminder that all is well. 12 weeks you can easily have them re-done by then...small pleasures and all of that! There is no chance of doing your own toenails afterwards so it needs some thought...

3) A freezer bursting with homemade food, or by cook  or by other means this was the nearest thing to heaven and anyone can reheat it ~ think four weeks plus and you have covered all bases

4) Setting up email and internet on my iphone and ipad, staying connected is a great source of comfort 247 for those early mornings or late nights.

5) Flu vaccines etc, you DONT want to get the flu after a replacement. I didn't have one and thought my stitches would burst with the effort of coughing and sneezing. Or I would literally dislocate with the effort. A vaccine will keep you safe and well.

6) Working out to the last minute (even if you hate working out) get those arms pumped, get your legs in shape, with whatever work out you can bear to do, it makes a huge difference to your recovery and your ability to take long walks on crutches.

7) Set your bedroom up as a self contained area ~ you will value having everything to hand

8) Prepared all of your cards, birthdays, special occasions for the next three months if not longer. You won't care about any of this post op, send them out now and forget about them. People will not always realise just out of action you are, and that post box can feel a long way away in the middle of winter on week two

9) Keep a diary pre op and post op, many recommend this especially Rocketman and this will show you the HUGE progress you have made, even when you feel you are standing still

10) A collection of fresh soft new nightwear, lounge wear for at least two weeks. This is not neccessarily costly but will be such a comfort to you, particularly if you are coping or managing largely or solely alone. 

11) Remember nothing is worse than the pre op pain, and where there is hope there is light, and once you have the courage to accept the operation, the whole world is a possibility once again as soon as you have this operation....the alternative....well the alternative means a life of permanent disability and pain. Post op is infinitely better no matter where you are on the journey to recovery.

Do feel free to add to my modest and spontaneous list..I feel blessed to be on this journey with all of you, regardless of the hurdles we face and overcome together. All of you have been a constant source of comfort and hope. Thank you.

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