Tuesday 7th - post op

Transcribed as written - except that there is no font called spidery morphine!

"Well, I'm bionic! Wasn't too bad except for the paper pants I had to put on under a robe which would sleep 6.

They wheeled me in the bed down to have the spinal - had one dodgy moment as he started to do that as I was sitting up and it made me feel faint - I told them that it would and had asked them if I could lie down for it! Had a bit of a panic as they lay me down, then they started again with me lying down. That'll teach em!

They gave me a shot in the back of the hand and I woke up in the recovery room 2 hours later.

I have an oxygen pipe up my nose which itches, and a canula - I've had antibiotics and saline in addition to IV paracetemol, and the morphine of course.

I am lying flat on my back for the first time in at least five years - I always had to raise my left leg/knee before. I am a bit uncomfortable though - it aches and I want to wee but although they have put me on the pot twice I just can't go - effectively it would be like wetting the bed and I just can't seem to switch the right controls on. Each time it makes my wound bleed - interesting does not quite sum up the pain!

Hub came along and fed me a bit of smoked salmon salad and I had icecream but I can't sleep at present. I am getting good with the mirror in my compact and the grabby thing - bearing in mind I am flat on my back. So far I have sorted out the morphine pump when it fell on the floor, getting my book, this pad etc. All very well but I can't wee! Ho hum!

Hope I sleep in a bit. Hub is in Darlington tomorrow so I won't see him till late evening but at least he will have phoned Mum to let her know I am OK.

Must admit, when he was putting in the lumbar I said the Lord's Prayer! It worked, as I am still here - unless hell is not being able to wee for the rest of your life. I am quite proud of myself - haven't wimped out and it can only get better from here!"