Question for anyone who has had bowel surgery

[Aggie_Ama]

Bcipam- My father has colon cancer and had a large mass removed in March. They were able to do it labrascopically (sp?) and he healed much quicker. I believe he was in the hospital 3 days and then was doing pretty good the next week. Everything is a blur, but I believe he was able to lift over 10 lbs within one months time. Maybe sooner. He was out of work for 6 weeks because his work requires he frequently lift 50 lbs or more. He had a ton of sick leave, so he took it.

They were also able to give him this great pain remedy. He left the hospital with small IVs going straight into the colon area and giving it pain medicine. This was so much easier than swallowing pain medicines. The pain medicine was a little ball in a small bag, when the ball ran out he just pulled the tiny needles out himself. This sounds terrible, but he said it didn't hurt one bit and it was great to sleep through the night without worrying about the meds wearing off.

I would see if they are planning to do the surgery labrascopically or if this is an option. It seems to make the healing time much easier and the scars (if that matters) are much smaller. Best wishes to you!

[bcipam]

Aggie - thanks for the info. Of course its not really what I want to hear. I absolutely dread any hospital stay. It's the worse part of all this for me. A friend of mine also had this done last year and I think she had a 3 day stay as well. If there's anyway I can go home after, I'm pushing for it.

I'm never worried about pain. After my collarbone surgery I was given pain medication, but never took it. But this might be worse. Anyway thanks everyone for all your well wishes - much appreciated. Can't believe another Fall Season (my favorite - I tolerate Summer to get to Fall) and it looks like no riding for awhile. Bummer!!!!!

[Bruno28]

Hi Bicam

Sending you good wishes for a speedy recovery.

Carol

[Geonz]

As weather goddess, I shall extend the fall for you (or would that just be global warming?)

No info, just good wishes...

[bcipam]

Geonz... I would be ever so grateful if you could do just that. Love Fall. Missed it last year as well. Thankfully California also has good (relatively) winters) and I'll be back riding by then.

[Thistle]

So hope all goes well and you amaze yourself with a really speedy recovery. Hope Fall lasts forever for you this year.

[Bikingmomof3]

Bcipam,
I am sending well wishes and prayers your way. Contact the surgeon's nurse, as she should be able to answer all of your questions. A positive attitude will help the healing process (I know, easier to say than to do). If they offer a hospital stay, take it. It will help the recovery process. again, my continued prayers.