It’s the beginning of February 2024. In less than two months, I’ll celebrate the third anniversary of my craniotomy, the surgery that I had to remove my brain tumor. It seems like a lifetime ago in some ways, and yet the memories are still fresh. Looking back at the first six months post-surgery, I wanted to share a few notes that I hope may be helpful if you are facing a surgery, in post-operative recovery, or a family member/friend.
Begin moving as soon as you can: My doctors and nurses encouraged me to start moving as soon as possible after my operation. Of course, that didn’t happen much in the days immediately following surgery. Once I was home, I began a routine that involved taking short walks that progressively built up into longer and longer ones over the course of several weeks, then months. By short, I mean starting by walking up and down the street, then around the block, then twice around the block, and moving from there. I also found a chair yoga practice to be very helpful. I emphasized breathwork and simple movement at first, and then built on to more physically challenging practices. And while there is no need to overdo it at first, exercise is a great way to feel better on so many levels.
Post-operation head care: I wrote a whole blog post on this several years ago and am linking it here. I can’t emphasize how much things like button-down shirts and zip-up hoodies help in the first few months post-surgery. You want to avoid having to pull clothing over your head. Soft, comfortable hats to shield your head and incision from the sun are also a must. In the article on care, I also mention a few tips particular to radiation treatment.
Rest: It is so critical for your body to get the rest you need. Give yourself plenty of time to rest - especially right after surgery, and especially if you are undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment. Of course, movement is also important (as noted above!), so you want to be sure that you can get up and move as appropriate. That said, it is both the treatments and the medicine that will make you fatigued. It’s OK to take a nap during the day to help recharge.
Meal trains and healthy eating: If friends or family offer to put together meals for you, take them up on it! Oftentimes, this can be such a time saver and allows for you and your caretaker(s) to focus on other areas of your health and recovery. Don’t be shy to specify if you have certain dietary needs. People will appreciate knowing. If you want to participate in a meal train yourself for someone in need but don’t live close by, gift cards to places that deliver are a great alternative. And remember, eat as well as you can post-surgery. Stay hydrated with non-caffeinated drinks, and eat the colors of the rainbow! You may also be eligible to meet with a dietitian through your hospital. I found that to be very helpful.
Give yourself grace! It’s all new, it’s all different, it all requires adjustment. Know that it’s totally normal to feel the whole spectrum of emotions - including being completely overwhelmed at times. Talk to your family and friends, and when you need ‘alone’ time, know that it’s OK to have that as well. The healing process is just that - a process. While there may not be a ‘cure’ per say for those of us with malignant tumors, healing is possible, each and every day.
February 2, 2024
Photo: Rainbow over Marina Bay, Richmond, CA
Comments