My experience so far...now, with details!

[icon23 273]

I didnt realize you where from Seattle. I live in Vancouver,BC and was just literally in Bellingham,Wa yesterday evening shopping for post-op stuff. I thought I would be able to find some of the vitamins/supplements we can not get up here in Canada, but no such luck. Guess I am gong to have to order all my supplements online.

May I ask what your plans are post-op vitamin/supplement wise as soon as you get home from surgery.

I have a chewable children's Multivitamin which I will take a double dose of. I also have chewable Calcium, sublingual B12, and the most delicious tasting chewable Iron (peach flavored). I don't have them with me, so I don't remember the brand names or the dosages, but I can fill you in later. I bought them all online. The Iron isn't required, but I read that it (and zinc, which I also have, come to think of it) can help prevent hair loss, so I'm going to give it a shot. My surgeon said that I don't have to continue taking these supplements once I'm getting all of my Protein from food, but I probably will at least continue a Multivitamin because I have always taken one.

[icon23 273]

Be sure to tip the wheel chair folks! They make a pittance. They will also arrange for that little cart to zip you to your gate . . .lots of tips! I had to do this when I had to travel with a badly broken ankle.

Good advice! Thanks!

[amytug 996]

Thnk you for this thread icon!!!

[Rohler1520 119]

I highly suggest bringing some packets of unjury chicken Soup flavor and a food thermometer so you don't curdle the Protein with too hot water--this helped me survive the airport on the way here because I was hungry and there were delicious-looking restaurants everywhere. If you're on Clear liquids like I was' date=' you coud bring a different Protein powder packet that can be mixed clear with water--I just really liked the broth style because it made me feel like I was having a delicious, filling Soup. I also suggest bringing some Crystal Light packets (or something similar) because so many people say that they can't tolerate the taste of Water post-op. Gas-X strips are not a bad idea, but since they don't work on the type of gas that they pump into you to perform the surgery, I haven't actually needed them yet, although I did feel some gas in my stomach as I drank my first Clear Liquids today--better safe than sorry.

If you're traveling alone (or even if you're not), definitely bring a tablet, smartphone, or laptop--some way to communicate with people back home to let them know that you are safe when you arrive and when you make it through surgery successfully.

As far as clothing, bring a pair of slippers (mine are fuzzy and warm, which was nice when I was in cold rooms) for walking around the hospital. Also bring loose clothing, including pants with pockets. For women, I suggest a no-underwire bra, as described above. Don't pack too heavy! I also brought a heating pad, but I haven't used it yet. Some people swear by them (I think it helps to dissipate the gas, but I'm pretty sure I've walked mine out).

Depending on how much shopping you might want to do, including purchasing additional meds from a pharmacy, be sure to bring some cash. I brought 200 in 5s and 10s and I plan to go shopping tomorrow and have some left for tipping the driver and the maids at the hotel. Be sure to haggle when you shop--it is expected.

A lot of toiletries are provided in the hotel and hospital, but you should bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste and deodorant and anything else you feel very attached to (like makeup for me). Again, don't pack too heavy! If you forget anything, there is a Walmart really close to the Marriott. Even though it seems like I brought a lot, my bag is still light enough for me to pick up on my own post-op. I think that's about it. Oh yeah--passport![/quote']

This helps so much thank you so much

[janarae 93]

I am having surgery at the end of the month and staying at the Marriott, do you know if they have laundry facilities?

[SoCalDixieGal 172]

Usually the full service Marriott hotels do not have self service laundry. You can send it out, but it's pricey.

[lessofmeismore 1,405]

Love hearing from you and love that you are doing well!!!!

[*susan* 1,709]

Thank you so much for sharing your story, I am glad you are doing so well.

Sent from my iPad using VST

[janarae 93]

Usually the full service Marriott hotels do not have self service laundry. You can send it out' date=' but it's pricey.[/quote']

Thanks, I hate traveling with dirty clothes

[confidence 46]

Very detailed information. Thank u.