Four Days After Surgery

Sometimes I have to look at my stitches to see if it really happened. That is how good I feel; yes the soreness is there sometimes - especially when I try to get up from bed. (I find that placing a hand on my abdomen and rolling on my side is better than trying to sit up - way better.)

I feel "normal" for the most part and usually have a good amount of energy. Sometimes I do "hit the wall" and an afternoon nap has become an important part of my routine! Other than that I am quite "with it" (no comments, please...).

I am also surprised about how easy it has been to swallow. I sometimes forget and take a larger sip of my protein drink and there is brief discomfort, but that is all. I called the Nutritionist, Dena, and asked if the liquid drains quickly from the new "pouch" or if I could be stretching it already. She confirmed that liquid does not stay long and that if I had gulped too much the stoma - the small opening - couldn't handle it and would send it back up "north". Good to know.

On the first day home I developed a tracking sheet for my protein, calories, and physical exercise. I am proud to say that I got in 89 grams of protein out of my recommended 90, as well as 2.9 km on the stationary bike. (The read-out said I also burned just over 100 calories.) I have also lost 12 out of the 13 pounds I gained in the hospital because of the fluids that were pumped in to me.

So it it "so far so good". Today we are going to a family Easter gathering. We weren't going to go as we all thought I would be needing recovery time. I am glad we can go and spend time together. As for eating, I told them not to be jealous as I sip my delicious "Cookies and Cream" protein drink while they settle for glazed ham...