From our BRCA Buddy Katie – BRCA1 – Age 29, who at the time of writing this, was a few months post-op, so everything was still fresh in her mind. Whilst we know everyone’s recovery is different, these hints and tips are fabulous guidance to what lies ahead. Thanks Katie you Super *.
“Hints and tips I would have found useful before entering my surgery and recovery!
🍂 Time of year 🍂
Considering what time of year you will have your operation is a personal choice but in hindsight an important aspect to consider! When I chose to have my bilateral double mastectomy on 1st November 2022 I realised that this was a good time of year for recovery- no high temperatures outside, no missing out on fun in the sun! Instead keeping warm inside and there was a lot of rain during November- perfect for keeping cosy and recovering inside!
💼 Hospital bag 💼
Take things that give you comfort! Something that smells nice and familiar, something that feels nice to touch. This helped me mentally prepare for packing the bag and getting myself ready to go in to hospital.
💪Drains💪
Having a tote bag for both bottles. I also had one bottle in a draw string bag because I slept it was in the middle of the bed with me. The other bottle was on the floor by the side on the bed.
🛁 Washing, showering and bathing 🛁
When you wash your hair, a hair wrap towel was very useful stopping water dripping down to your bandages. It was very important that the bandages fully dried after washing.
When I was able to bath after the bandages were off and the scars had fully knitted together, I was still wary not to lift myself out from the low bath position. I found that going on my shins and knees then holding on to the wall was a safe way to get out.
🛌 Useful PJs 🛌
I had a pair which were quite slippery in terms of material type (100% polyester). This was very helpful when swivelling out of bed carefully.
💤 Naps 💤
In the early weeks of my recovery, I kept listening to my body and just napped when I needed.
🚙 Seatbelt cushion 🚙
Super helpful for feeling comfortable in the car. It also prompted taxi drivers to drive a little slower over the bumps!
Finally, I wish I had a back scratcher for the first few weeks!! 😆
Wishing you all the best with your journey. You’ve got this (a saying that I repeated to myself a lot!)! Love, Katie 💕”
Thanks to wonderful Katie – if you have any of your own Hints and Tips, please pop them in the comments below!
