Prepare to be an invalid!

Went to the clinic today for my pre op assessment. Things are not going to be as straightforward as I thought.

I will be in hospital for at least 5 days, not the 2-5 as originally understood. In practice it will be more like 8 days. When I come home I will be unable to take my full weight on my hip for at least 6 weeks! This means that I will be on crutches for this time, and cannot carry anything whilst moving. Think about it - I have nowhere to sit and eat in the kitchen, instead I have a separate dining room. Whilst I will be able to make myself a cup of coffee, I won't be able to carry it, and will have to consume it standing up in the kitchen! I will not be able to cook, clean, have a shower - can't get in the bath! I knew I wouldn't be able to drive for 6 weeks but I had still thought I would be pottering round after a couple of days, painting the gate, clearing cupboards, steaming the carpet, transplanting conifers, instead I will not be able to put my socks on!

They have given me a raised toilet seat to put over the top of ours, and a grabber to help pick things up as I won't be able to bend more than 90 degrees at the hip. For at least 3 months!

I saw one of the nurses I will meet again at the hospital, who did blood pressure - it's low, and my weight. 10 stone 4lb. (At home I was 10/11, a very good way to lose a half stone!) Then I spoke to the occupational therapist, who was giving the news about all the things I won't be able to do. Then went to have blood taken - as usual I asked if I can lie down as I have the tendency to faint, and she says, oh, I've come in part time, and although I used to be a blood nurse I haven't done this for years! hah - made her more nervous than she made me then! Actually all went well, no swoons, and four pots taken successfully.

Anyway, went shopping afterwards for the stuff for the Christmas puddings and the cake, and also went to Macarthur Glen for some nightshirts, flat shoes to accompany the crutches and the bowls and basins I need for the kitchen.

Back home spoke to Hubby who told me to ring the chaps that the surgeon had given me to get in touch with - got through to one, who told me it will be the best thing I have done, once I get over the fact that it will be very painful afterwards. His quote - "Incredible surgery, amazing difference, very painful afterwards, but go for it!"

Fair enough.

Will have a glass or three of wine tonight though, think I deserve it!