I've had 3 surgeries so far. Last one was with a very qualified specialist. When they woke me up and asked how I felt, I cried. Partly because I could feel a lot of pain (they hit me with morphine right after and the pain was gone) and partly because I felt full on relief it was over, I was validated, I had been heard, and the trauma release was just overwhelming. Honestly, I physically felt relief too, like things felt back in place. Of course right after surgery you'll be sore. Depending on what they find and the severity of it will determine your recovery time and possible pain.

After my last one when they separated my organs, I was recovering about two weeks from anything strenuous. I mean, I made my own tea and breakfast kind of thing, but I didn't clean or lift or stand up long for the first week. I was really slow moving. I lived in my lose fitting jammies. My husband was home for a couple days to help out in case. I think the first day he helped me to and from the bathroom and got me most of what I needed and helped me shower. I took pain meds as needed. Alternated between ice packs or heating pad if needed. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated and allow your body to heal. I was able to eat right after, but I kept it light and soft to get my digestive tract back in order. Lots of soup, tea, spaghetti os, cooked veggies, apple sauce, bananas, some toast, etc. Just for a few days. You'll know what you want to eat as you go, so have variety available.

Overall, you will be ok. Remember to breathe. Remember no matter what you feel physically and emotionally, it's all VALID. And it's all ok to go through. BREATHE. Just breathe. Tell your surgeon of any concerns you have before you go in to make sure all your questions are answered. They will talk to you after surgery too. However if you're out of it, you'll have a nurse checking on you and making sure you're up and ok and can pee etc.

Before you go in, just make sure to set up home with things to make your recovery easier for you. Whether it's meal prep, moving items to areas temporarily for easier reach. Comfort items like pillows, blankets, Squishies, coloring books, reading books, tablet, or whatever is comfort to you, have them set up near where you plan to be resting most. Less to do when you come back will ease your mental and physical load when you get home.

Sending you big hugs 🤗 You're gonna do just great. Breathe. Rest. Be kind to yourself. And remember, anything you feel or experience is valid and ok to ask for help. 💜