Camping 2 1/2 Weeks After Surgery

[LeahG 16]

So, we have our annual family camping trip planned for August 8-12. I am having surgery July 20, and this would put me 2 1/2 weeks out. Is this a good idea? I will be out of work from July 20-August 1 and don't really like the idea of taking another week off so soon.

Healthwise, were you feeling well enough to rough it in the wilderness for a week? We wouldn't have any electricity and the only refrigeration we'd have is a cooler and ice. If you do think it'd be okay to go, what foods would you recommend to take? At 2 1/2 weeks out, I will be on mushy/soft foods.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

[Penpen 28]

I'm 12 days post op and can't image taking a camping trip now. Mainly because at 2 1/2 weeks, I will still need my Protein shakes which I can't image drinking warm and my pureed Soups which you need electricity for your blender and then warming your food up is another story. Of course, I live in Texas and with the 100+ degree weather days, there's no way I would want to be out in that. Also, I know that I'm just now mustering up enough energy to feel alive again. But it is still very hard. I'm probably getting less than 500 calories a day and it's not from lack of trying. My stomach can only hold 4 ounces at one time. So I'm constantly putting something in my mouth whether Water, Protein Shakes, pureed Soups, or medicine. In between, I have to wait for my tummy to empty out before I put something else in. It is hard work and you have to stay on top of it or you will be extremely dehydrated and will not take in enough Protein. I know everyone's different. I know there are people on this forum that seem to have surgery one day and pop out of bed full of energy and ready to conquer the world after a couple of days. But this was not the case for me. I just can't image not having my electricity and a/c and running Water, etc. Maybe someone else will chime in here and have a completely different outlook at it.

Hope that helped! Good luck!

[mnbsleeve 87]

Sorry Leah, I would agree with Penpen above. For me it would have been very difficult. Of course, I'm not a camper in general. But I had the runs from the shakes and it was unexpected. I ended up having to locate and try different Protein Shakes also at different temperatures to get them down. Same with the liquids. I had to stay on top of approximately one ounce of liquide every 8 to 10 minutes to meet my goals. It is a bit of a job. It does get better daily. I'm sure other's will chime in. As Penpen said, some are ready to go in a couple of days. I guess it just depends on each person. The thing is, you don't know what your experience may be. I hope this is hepful. Congratulations and best of luck on your journey!!!!

[LeahG 16]

Thanks guys! I had the feeling that I probably shouldn't go, especially because I don't know how I'll be feeling that soon out of surgery. The thought of warm Protein drinks made me want to gag, too...so I definitely don't want to deal with that for a week...lol.

There's always next year!

[former_vbg 198]

It sounds like you have gotten some good feedback already, but thought I would add my 2 cents. I'm a pretty tough cookie when it comes to pushing through pain and inconveniences and such. I also happen to love camping and honestly I can't imagine camping right now and having to deal with figuring out how to get what my body needs. It's been challenging enough just being home.

[Penpen 28]

Oh yes, and I forgot about the runs. The thought of not having what you need or not having a place to take care of business would be enough for me to say no thanks. Lol

Sorry Leah, I would agree with Penpen above. For me it would have been very difficult. Of course, I'm not a camper in general. But I had the runs from the shakes and it was unexpected. I ended up having to locate and try different Protein shakes also at different temperatures to get them down. Same with the liquids. I had to stay on top of approximately one ounce of liquide every 8 to 10 minutes to meet my goals. It is a bit of a job. It does get better daily. I'm sure other's will chime in. As Penpen said, some are ready to go in a couple of days. I guess it just depends on each person. The thing is, you don't know what your experience may be. I hope this is hepful. Congratulations and best of luck on your journey!!!!