Trying to keep well pre-op

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Hi,

I have recently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and am due to be admitted for surgery on December 23rd.

I read a post on your site recommending that family members can benefit from focussing on things they can control and change during this difficult time, and I’ve found that the same approach is helping me as the patient too.

Because of COVID, my husband and I are having to isolate for 14 days pre-op, so I have been focussing on getting my exercise every day in the garden and up and down stairs. Trying to stick to as much of my normal routine as I can. Also eating healthily, little and often - and I’ve found that giving up gluten, dairy and excess salt has really helped to keep the bloating under control and keep my appetite levels up.

I wanted to share this in case it can be of help to anybody else - or maybe somebody else has other helpful suggestions ?

Wishing strength to everybody else awaiting surgery

NattyP123 over 4 years ago

Hi, That all sounds very sensible. I found the waiting to start treatment very difficult. It does help to keep busy, get some fresh air and eat little and often as you say. Somehow it does get easier once you're on the journey to recovery- you can cross off the surgery and chemo and feel like you're moving forward. After surgery, take it very easy. Straight after the op, I found it difficult because my bowels took a few days to settle, so I had very painful trapped wind- it was more painful than the surgical scar! You can drink peppermint tea and walk round slowly, which does help eventually! It helps to have the freezer well stocked with meals or ask friends to help. Wishing you all the best for the surgery and the future. xx

B.positive over 4 years ago in reply to NattyP123

Thanks so much for the post-op advice.....really helpful.

Bxx

HazG over 4 years ago

Hi I’m the same I’m having bowel surgery on 7th jan I go into isolation Christmas Eve.

good luck with your surgery

B.positive over 4 years ago in reply to HazG

Thanks so much - you too

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Trying to keep well pre-op