Surgery
I have surgery tomorrow and I am trying hard not to freak out. I had this same surgery almost 3 months ago. They need to remove my top rib on my left side this time instead of the right.
i was scared the first time, but this time I know what is going to happen. It is not reassuring. I know they will collapse my lung and when I wake up I will feel like I can’t breathe. I know I am going to be in horrible pain for 2 weeks. These things do not help me feel better. I don’t feel better equipped other than I know I will need to sleep in the recliner for 2 weeks and I will need a walker for a week because of the meds.
I have a 12 year old son who is very protective of me. I can’t let him see me so upset or he will get upset.
@InvisibleMe36
Thank you for reaching out. I can see that this is a challenging situation for you. You've already gone through one recently, so it makes sense that this new procedure is bringing up difficult feelings. It sounds like you have some clear expectations about what will happen during the surgery and recovery. Which unfortunately is adding to the fear as the experience carries some painful days if not weeks.
All these are valid concerns. Here are some points that you may wish to reflect on:
1. What is the reason for you to get this surgery? Since you are aware of the challenges associated with recovery, it is my assumption that the reason for it outweigh the temporary pain associated with it.
2. As painful as some seasons of life can be, it does eventually pass. Just like all the other weeks have passed, good or bad, time passes. Know that this too shall pass.
As for your son, I can imagine how that must be challenging for him. However life includes many such moments, we all have to at some point or another tackle challenging/painful realities. Since this can not be avoided, perhaps it can serve as an opportunity for your son to learn that human beings are capable of enduring hardships. It may help to explain the process of recovery so he knows what to expect.
Thank you Hope! I thought I had lost this post. All good points. Yes, this surgery will make a big difference for my whole family. My episodes look like seizures and scare everyone.
My son has seen me go through so much. It is why he is protective. I just want to let him be a kid without dealing with a defective mom.
But you are right. I will get through this as well.
Thank you!
@InvisibleMe36
It looks like it will eventually improve the quality of life. As it often is, it gets worse before it gets better in life. You are almost there! A couple of more weeks this season will be over.
I can only imagine how hard this must be on your son but it can't be helped so perhaps once you feel better, you can look for ways to create an environment/opportunity where your son can be carefree and enjoy being a child.
7 Cups is here for you through it all! While we can't take away the physical pain, we have listeners 24/7 here to help you through it on an emotional level.
Some communities that you may find helpful!
Anxiety Support
Parenting Support