I got to visit with Amy again yesterday exactly two weeks post op.
“Surgery went smoothly and recovery so far is not as bad as I expected. I did almost pass out when the doc removed the bandages the morning after surgery and I got my first look. My scars were longer than I thought they would be, going all the way into my armpits.
The worst part was the drains! I knew I would have them, but I had no idea how long they would be, they went from the middle of my ribs, up over the top of the chest and into each armpit. And the fluid they collected had to be emptied, measured, and recorded twice a day.
I was released from the hospital about 21 hours after surgery.
On day 3, I was determined to attend a Friendsgiving celebration, even though we didn't stay late. By day 6, I was healing well enough to get my drains out, when most people need them in for 10-14 days. Removal was INTENSE, and didn't really change my discomfort level. The space they had occupied was still so sore.
I went home and showered with my husband and had a cry. Part of it was physical pain, but there was also mourning. I am confident I made the right choice, but it was still hard to see.
On day 10, I turned a corner and started to feel like me again. I could lift my arms over shoulder height and put on pull-over shirts! On day 13, I got a massage and had my stitches and staples removed. And on day 14, I got to see the wonderful Ash and document this step in my journey. This has been one hell of a year, and I am hoping the only drama I see in 2020 is an impeachment trial!!”
You can read Amy’s full story here.