How to Prep (and Definitely NOT Prep) for Surgery

Hey there, brave human! If you're reading this, you’re either about to go under the knife, or you're a random internet scroller with an odd taste in reading. Either way, welcome! Surgery can be a tad scary, kinda like blind dates. But just like any awkward date, preparation is key. And hey, let's face it: at least with surgery, you know something will be fixed by the end of it! 😉 So, let's delve into the do's and, more hilariously, the don'ts of gearing up for your big day.

The DO's:

Knowledge is Power: Understand the procedure. When you know what's going on, it's less like a surprise haunted house ride and more like a scheduled roller coaster. Whee!

Buddy System: Keep a trusted family member or friend in the loop. They can be your anchor, note-taker, or even the person you text memes to when pre-surgery jitters hit.

Positivity Playlist: Create a playlist of upbeat songs. My playlist this morning consisted of Earth, Wind, and Fire, Hall & Oates, and Jackson Brown. Your jams may vary.

Stay Fit: As per your doctor's advice, try to be in the best physical shape possible. It can help with recovery. But remember, don’t overdo it. Unfortunately, my surgery this morning is for a hernia repair, so overdoing it was the cause; the repair is so I can start doing again!

The DON’Ts (aka: What Were You Thinking?):

Dr. Google: Do NOT Google horror stories. You're preparing for surgery, not a Halloween party.

Last Supper: Don't eat a giant meal the night before, especially if you’re told to fast. You don’t want your surgeon finding that hidden taco from last night. 🌮

Party Like It’s 1999: Avoid binging on alcohol or any other substances. Keep it clean, buddy!

Fashion Statement: Don't come in your best clothes. You’ll be wearing that super stylish hospital gown anyway. And hey, it's the one place where it's totally on-trend. Hernia/abdominal surgery tip- don’t wear socks; too hard to bend over and put those on your puppies after surgery.

Now, let’s have a little surgical procedure for your soul.

For those of faith, leaning on God during these times is like leaning on a sturdy rock amidst a stormy sea. In the Bible, Proverbs 3:5-6 says,

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The thing about surgery, or any challenge in life, is that we're not walking through it alone. God's there. He's in the skilled hands of the surgeon, the caring touch of the nurses, and even in the hopeful messages of friends and family.

Surgery is a temporary moment in your journey, and God is with you every step of the way, guiding, comforting, and healing. He’s got this. And so do you!

Stay brave, stay hopeful, and may your recovery be as smooth as your past and future dance moves to “September” on a Friday night! 🕺🎉