Friday, February 29, 2008

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.

7 comments:

Lindsay said...

Oh Jess, I'm so happy to hear from you! So glad that it wasn't as horrendous an experience as it could have been. Enjoy as much sleep as you possibly can! Hugs...

Sunny Day Tag Girl said...

I am so glad you are home, you sound good. Enjoy the pampering and rest as much as possible. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am off to decorate for a 3 year old party tomorrow. Her birthday was Tuesday so we are having the family over for cupcakes and a little party.
Love you, Kori

kim said...

Hey Jess - I can't wait to see you - I'll bug you in a few days, just want to give you space first. I've been so concerned for you and feel relieved when I read your blogs. Thanks for taking the time to write. Big xoxo

Jenny Weddel said...

Welcome Home Jess! Glad to hear your spirits are up and that you are being well taken care of. Can't wait to give you our best wishes in person! Smooches, Jenny & Shane

alissa said...

Jess...I too was worried and am relieved to hear that you are on the mend. We were so elated to hear the neg node news!!! I am eager to visit, but it sounds like you need your rest for now....Send up some smoke signals when you are ready to have company. In the meantime, we are all thinking of you constantly. I will be there in a flash if needed!

Dawn Treader said...

Dear Jessica,
I am so happy to hear you are home and recovering so nicely. My heart was warmed by your loving remarks about the nurses that cared for you.
Nurses give a life of service, which often goes unnoticed by anyone but our LORD, and he has gifted us to do this. As a nurse of 51 years, thank you for appreciating the nurses that cared for you. I have been praying for your complete recovery daily and for Mark to be your strength. I have been praying for Thea to be your encourager, your best friend ,who is your sister at heart.She loves you so much.
Psalm 30:2
O LORD my GOD
I called to you for help and you healed me.
With love and blessings;
Grandma Nancy

Barb said...

Hi Jess. So glad things are going well for you. I think of you and Mark each and everyday and hope that you guys are doing well. You have a great spirit about you and I am learning from you during this amazing ordeal that you are going through. You are a real inspiration to all of us. By the way, I went to Charlies today to buy my dad a loaf of Challah bread. That place is amazing. My father was raised orthodox and my grandmother baked her own challah bread almost every day. When I give my dad the bread tomorrow, he will tell me whether it lives up to his standards. I cheated and tasted a bit of it today and it was delicous. I know that your recovery will continue to go as well as it has. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Mark and your entire family