Halfway Point

14 days have passed since my surgery and I can’t believe how quickly time has flown by. So, I figured I would offer an update for those who are interested.

The incision seems to be healing nicely. Today is the first day that I am venturing about without a huge flap of gauze taped to my tummy. Continuing with the gauze dressing was more of a precautionary measure, really, since we were advised to remove the steri-strips surgical tape a week ago. I was a little fearful about the removal of the steri-strips because they looked like the only thing preventing my incision from flaying open. In reality, the doctor mentioned something about dissolvable stitches/staples on the inside holding me together, so not to worry. The gauze dressing, however, provided a safe barrier between my wound and my undies — which seemed prudent to have while the wound was healing. As the incision starts to appear less like a 5-inch gash on my abdomen and more like a scar, things like gauze barriers seem a bit superfluous. Besides, the surgical tape was really starting to irritate my sensitive skin, causing my stomach to itch like mad. In fact, it still itches and I have to muster all the self-control within me to resist scratching my skin off. Even the hydrocortisone isn’t working. Gah.

I haven’t taken any pain killers since last weekend; the occasional twinges of pain and discomfort are well within my tolerance to handle without drugs. Sneezing, coughing and any abdominal contraction makes my eyes cross and incapacitates me for a minute or two, though. I notice that my energy level is still quite low and a small amount of exertion can leave me breathless. It reminds me that I am still not fully recovered and not to be too ambitious with my activities just yet.

Thankfully, the poo situation has rectified itself and my appetite is returning. With that, I fear the 8 pounds I lost post-surgery will soon be on its way back, too. You win some, you lose some.

I’ve been taking daily walks around the neighborhood park with the Hubs, enjoying the lush scenerey and, of course, Hubby’s company. We have great conversations as we walk leisurely together, observing the natural beauty of the area; listening to the running water of the stream, birds chirping overhead and watching the trees sway with the wind. It’s moments like these that remind me of how blessed I am and how I need to take time to enjoy these simple pleasures in life.

I can’t believe it. I’m halfway through my recovery period and in two short weeks, I will be back at work, nose to the grind. I hope I’ll be running close to 100% by then. Work has a way of sapping all of my energy, and if I’m running on less than a full tank already, it’s not going to be fun.

Speaking of work, look at what the great people at the office sent me today:

Along with the flowers came a card, chock full of well-wishes from co-workers and an extremely generous gift card for Longs Drugs.

It sounds so cliche, but I am so overwhelmed by the generosity that people have shown me during this time. I simply don’t know how to thank or repay such kindness.