Steps to recovery #2 – Wound healing

To be honest I could have started here as has been the focus since day 1 post-operation. This is one of the main pacesetters for the whole recovery.

Just a heads up that I may be a bit graphic but will try not to overshare! It does help me rationalise in my head my approach to managing it all!

Some of the minor impacts are clear now. The 3 keyhole surgery entry points on the tummy are now just fading away – stiches melting. The cannula and catheter are a distant memory. The Stoma is a new reality rather than a wound so worth its own update.

As I shared before the shaved coccyx is being managed by avoiding antagonising it. 🧌

That leaves the cut up the backside where they took out the tumour and bowel. A bit like Vesuvius it remains active – leaking out from the internal impact 🌋 . Never thought I’d need sanitary pads #intouchwithmyfeminindside. And without pain killers then there is a sharp pulling pain – I can’t do extended steps.

So how about managing this?

The walking and standing puts pressure on the wounds so have to limit the time on my feet. Balancing the wound care with the need to get more active. So I walk slowly. Just did a short walk listening to my running music. Felt slightly weird 🎶

Pain killers help keep the sharp pain down to an ache.

Sanitary pads to manage the discharge Checks from the community nurse confirm the healing is going well!

Avoiding heavy lifting – thanks to the family for being my bag carriers! 😀

Ultimately I need to avoid putting weight on it. So no upright sitting. Lying on cushions – trying to avoid a cricked neck. Sleeping on my sides – being careful when I roll over.

Avoiding journeys in the car if I can.

The good news is that it is getting easier. I reckon and other 2-3 weeks and I should be able to sit more. As I extend my walking it will build my physical resilience. Above all, acceptance that it will take time will manage my mental resilience.

Less than 3 weeks in and I am amazed at how far the healing for the wounds has come. The continued support and care of family is astounding and humbling. The love shared in messages from family and friends means so much and builds the mental resilience – feeling the support of others.

🐢🐌💪❤️