Back surgery (cont.) -- scheduled, and I'm scared!

[Grace]

Like Ellie, I’ve also had my share of surgeries. I really can say I didn’t feel freaky nervous before any of them.

My brain tumor caused the most concern for me – but I had to put it out of my mind or I would have gone batty. I figured my surgeon had all the worries to deal with, and I just refused to think about the actual procedure, and concentrated on what I would do post-op. And I spent just 2 days in the hospital – piece of cake, just like I imagined.

My recent one – the new hip – just made me angry. I’m far too young to have to need a new joint. At least that’s what I told myself.

I think you should print Ellie’s response and read it several times a day. You can do this

[lizbud]

I wish I had some magic words to give you that would put you at ease, but I don't. I would echo Grace's comments
about following Ellie's suggestions on the surgery. I just know that some things in life that I worried so much about before
they happened, turned out to be worrying for nothing. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers for a successful outcome
and quick & easy recovery for you. (((Hugs)))

[phesina]

Thank you, Ellie and Gretchen and Liz. And Ellie, I will keep reading your message and work on the positive attitude.

A friend of my sister's had back surgery (not quite as extensive as mine; just laminectomy, no fusion) recently done by Dr. Patel. She came out of it just fine, is very pleased with the results, and LUVVVVS Dr. Patel!

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

Dear Pat,

Try not to worry so much. Instead of focussing on what might go wrong, try to visualize how better you will be afterwards; You will be in safe hands, the docs know what they're doing, so try not to think negative
In 2003 I had a really major back surgery, and i had no choice to get it or not; I simply had to!
Together with lots of support from friends and family, I managed to stay reasonably calm;
Now I am soooooooo glad I had that operation! I know, I still have lots of backproblems, but at least I got rid of a very big problem; If I hadn't agreed to be helped, I would now be in a wheelchair, suffering immense pain! I am so happy I had so much trust in my surgeons!
I am most willig to send you as much positive vibes as I can sweetheart

Take care!!

[phesina]

Thank you, Lut. You are very encouraging, too! I really appreciate your good wishes.

[Catty1]

Pat, I have never needed back surgery so I can't empathize, but I did have one surgery as an adult.

I did all the positive things I could. I reminded myself to use "Please" and "Thank You" to all medical staff, especially nurses who often don't have a great time of it with patients. (I remember the day after surgery, a nurse from the day before was on a different ward but popped in to see how I was doing. SOMEHOW - after the anesthetic and all the day before - her name popped into my head, and I smiled and said, "Good morning, (name). How are you today?" Well, her smile just lit up the whole room!)

I was a churchgoer at the time, and even went to the anointing of an oil for healing. Why not? I put all the positive things in my favour!

I'll email you a humourous memo I wrote at the time. Just before I went to the OR, a nurse saw it and cracked up. My older, experienced, wizened surgeon got a good chuckle out of it; he wore a faded surgical cap with teddy bears on it. Whether it was a gift from a grandchild or said something about his personality, I don't know.

HUGS to you - I know it's a while to wait - but it does sound like you are in great hands!

[phesina]

Hi Candace, thank you for all the encouragement.

Yes, I am also a great believer in saying Please and Thank You to the medical staff and all who do helpful things for me even if that is their job to do those things. I will make it a point to continue to do so throughout this.

I'm not a churchgoer and don't have a particular religion I follow, but maybe I'll look around for one of those healing ceremonies. Good idea, thanks! I do believe that such positive things like that are good, and holy.

I'm looking forward to your memo!

Thanks again, Candace, and everyone! You all have already done a great deal to lift my spirit from the pit of fear it has been lurking in.

Love from Pat (and cats)