post op planning

Hey All, I am trying to put together some transportation and child care for my sons (9 & 10) while I'm in the hospital and recovering. I forgot to ask my doc how long before I can drive... what did your doc say and when did you feel up to it? I'll be alone with my boys in the evenings (dinner) so any info on what you could do (cooking, lunch making, laundry, homework) and when will be really helpful. Hubby is home on the weekends, but how much help will I need during the first couple weeks? Thanks! Three weeks to go! keke

Hi, I'm not sure what procedure you are having done .....so I'll base it on my own. I was not allowed to drive for 2-3 weeks post op.  I was not allowed to do "ANY" housework for 6 weeks, no vacuuming, no cleaning, and no laundry.  Homework - i guess you'd be at a table or on the sofa that is possible.  But in actuality, take this as a 6 week break from "EVERYTHING".  Your body will have undergone major changes and you need time to adapt/adjust/rest. Have meals prepared in advance that are easily thawed and put into the oven. Perhaps make some things now that they can eat because you yourself will be on different things...liquids for 1-2 weeks, then pureed for another 1-2, then soft for another 1-2, then regular foods as tolerated.  This all based on YOUR Surgeon, your nut and what program you are doing.  So it will indeed vary. Best thing I can tell you is get some help doing it all.  I was told not even to break an ice tray, that that simple twisting could cause a problem. To me - that's a little bit much but after a while, you learn what is possible and what isn't.  During the first 2 weeks, plan on someone else doing the MAJORITY of what you said in your post.  And take this as great advice--- this is a BIG step, and you want to take LITTLE steps recovering and healing.  Baby steps, one step at a time. Feeling up to doing anything doesn't mean we CAN.  And I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that the damage has been done since I chose to do something I shouldn't.  All of our cir****tances are different, and the program we go through also is.  Base what you do, how you do, and your daily routine based on YOUR doctor/surgeon and program and make sure you have SUPPORT at home!!! That is more important than anything else!!!   Best wishes! Stacey W

Thanks Stacey,  I'm having RNY on 1/28 and my sweetie will do all the heavy stuff on the weekends... but we have a 20 minute commute to school in the morning... how about driving? (I am most concerned about that as you can tell). Keke

Ask your surgeon about driving...I was told 1- 2 weeks and be off pain meds..... SHannon

I was told one - two weeks and to be off pain meds.  I had an open RNY.  I could have driven after 2 weeks but my father was staying with me and wouldn't let me drive.  I did cook his meals for him.  He did the laundry, dishwashing, and some shopping. I didnt realize how clumsy I was until I couldn't pick things up from the floor. Jeanne

as soon as I was off drugs... i was released

I was allowed to drive 3 days after I stopped taking pain medication.  I stopped taking pain meds specifically so I could drive again -- just suffered a bit more than I had to, but it wasn't so bad.  I took pain meds for 1 day after I got out of the hospital, so I was able to drive within a week after surgery. As for housework.  I was specifically told to be on "light activity" whi*****ludes no vacuuming or raking leaves or other stretching type activities.  I was on a 5 lb lifting restriction for 6 weeks (this is very important to stick to religiously so you don't get a hernia!) and at my 6-week appointment I was cleared to lift up to 25 -30 pounds.  At 3 months I'll be cleared to do whatever. I would suggest making some dinners that you can freeze and pull out after surgery that just needs to be heated up for the family.  I always freeze chili with good success.  Lots of casseroles freeze well too. Also make sure you have post-op food for YOU to eat.  Stock up on the basics so you don't have to go out shopping as soon as you get home. Pam

Hey there keke, I was clear to drive after I was off pain meds...which was about 2 weeks post op for me.  After a week, I wanted to get out of the house and shop, so I didn't stock up on too much stuff. I bought a great book on dinners that are easy to freeze.  I made about two weeks of stuff that I could easily heat up for my boys.  If you want, PM me what kinds of things the kids like and I'll check my book and send you some recipes. Your guys are old enough to give mom a rest...I think you'll be ok just making an easy meal for them.  Heck, with your supervision, they can take out garbage, make lunches, and even start some laundry if you tell them how to do it. I got my kids ready for the surgery by telling them I needed some extra help, and I got a few "surprises" for them as rewards to give every few days....just to let them know I appreciated the extra help. It's great that you are taking the time to get things ready now.

Hi keke,   I had   Open Rny.    I was told not to drive for 2 weeks.  I Got my all clear at 2 weeks ...... started driving and went back to work.   I have a desk job.   I was still pretty sore at 2 weeks, but could get around just fine. I still had a hard time tieing my shoes so slip ons were great. As far as cooking dinner for the family i did that at 2 weeks, did laundry, light house cleaning like loading the dish washer and little things . all the rest came in do time. All & All   I think at   6 weeks  I  was 90% back to doing what I did before surgery,   but everyone is different.  Just take it slow.   good luck to you. DeAnn 262/150/140??