Big Surgery

The time is getting shorter, and it is time to get ready for the big day.  I have to get an exam ready and finalize grades before I leave.  I also need to move my school classroom closer to a bathroom for next year.  It is going to take a while to get my stuff packed up and ready.  I also have quite a bit of planning to do for my sub and for our end-of-the-year assembly including a big PowerPoint with pictures of students set to music.

I have been speaking to three guys who have had bladder cancer surgery.  One of them gave me a bunch of advice last night.  He said that his doctor told him that this surgery is one of the top three traumas.  The other two are a major car wreck and open heart surgery.  He told me that I would be quite weak for six to eight weeks.  He also suggested that we stock up on frozen foods since Kelli will be spending so much time taking care of me and the boys.  I also need to go out and buy loose fitting black pants and shoes that are easy to slip on and remove.  He also suggested that I move a recliner to the bedroom because he was not able to sleep in a regular bed for weeks.

He also told me that there is a big emotional aspect to the surgery that would include typical stages of grief.  One final topic that he covered was the impact that it was likely to have on Kelli.  He said that it will be hard on her physically and emotionally.

In a minute, I am going to email Dr. Schoenberg's nurse to find out what I need to be doing medically prior to leaving for the surgery.  I know that I am going to need to contact a home nursing service because Johns Hopkins wants some medical eyes on me that they can consult in the weeks after surgery.  I also need to find a special physical therapist who can help me learn to use the new plumbing that I will have.

Finally, mostly Kelli and not much I need to make a presentation to our church leadership concerning the orphan program.  I guess we need to pack for the days at he hospital.  What else am I forgetting?  Let's see... Trevor Shannon (Jenn's husband) is going to take care of mowing the grass.  The boys will be with the Seiberts during the week and with Kelli's brother and sister-in-law Corey and Brittany for the following weekend.  If needed, Kelli's parents will have them the following week.  Dr. Schoenberg said that the hospital stay could be 5-7 days.  Others tell me that is quite optimistic, so we will see. 

What else?  I am sure there will be something...