Gratitude

I am home sweet home, happily set up in the library (pillow positioning is easier in there) and thankful for so many things.

Getting ready for surgery was not as bad as I'd expected. Both my general surgeon & anesthesiologist were very sweet with me as we were getting set up. I didn't have any funny drifting-off moments, those came later with the pain medicine. But waking up was good. My post-op nurse was also a vegetarian who cooks meat for loved ones and sang me a beautiful song about pain meds to the tune of Volare. My first nurse, who was on the p.m. shift, was like an angel. I was still heavily medicated, but I'd wake to see her walking towards me through the shaft of light from the hallway throughout the night. She brought medicine, gently re-arranged my pillows, and put me back to sleep as if I were the only patient in the hospital.

The rest of the days in the hospital were much more work. Everything was on a schedule and I was tired and trying hard not to be uncomfortable, but every nurse that saw me was lovely. And a few extra things helped my days go easier. Caryn gave me this amazing lotion which several people were kind enough to massage my feet & hands with. I don't think there was a hint of hospital in the air of that room. Mark read to me, stories and your comments. Carla brought lemons, so it would smell like a home for sure. My mother washed my face. Well, she basically did all my bathing. I can't really think of very many more loving acts than a mother washing her child's face. I was in pain, in the hospital, and completely blessed.

Back at home, which is covered in flowers and delicious treats, I'm still not crazy energized. I do have very happy, comfortable spurts and then I nap. Today we went to my plastic surgeon's office for a dressing change. We didn't think we'd get to see him, but he surprised us, and I also have my drains removed. Many of the women I'd spoken to talked about the drains being the most bothersome thing post-op. I'd say the weakness is almost as bad, but it is very nice to have them out and well worth the 5 seconds of bizarre discomfort it takes.

And there you have my evening spurt of energy. I'm off to eat my grilled cheese and soup. Love to you all.