Surgery soon

Okay, so like I mentioned in my original post, I'm heading into surgery soon, and honestly? 'Ugh' is an understatement. The thought of it just fills me with so much anxiety, but I know it's necessary. I've been spending a lot of time trying to get my head in the right space, because let's be real, mental preparation for surgery is just as important as the physical kind, maybe even more so for someone like me who tends to overthink everything! My first step was acknowledging that it's okay to be scared. I think sometimes we feel like we have to be brave all the time, but admitting my fears to myself and my closest friends has been such a relief. I've been doing a lot of research, not to scare myself, but to understand the medical procedure itself. Knowing what to expect, even down to silly details like what kind of blue gown I might be wearing in the hospital room, helps demystify it a little. I've also made a point to ask my doctor a ton of questions – no question is too silly when it comes to your own body! One thing that's really helping me is focusing on my comfort items. I'm definitely bringing my trusty green plushie with me – it sounds childish, but having something familiar to hold onto makes a huge difference. I'm picturing myself in the hospital bed, maybe with an IV stand nearby, but also with my book and headphones ready to distract me. I’ve heard about people visualizing positive outcomes, and I’m trying that too. Instead of dwelling on the 'what ifs,' I'm trying to imagine waking up feeling better and starting my recovery journey. I've also been leaning heavily on my support system. My friends and family have been incredible, just listening to me vent and reminding me that I’ll get through this. We've even planned some post-surgery movie nights to look forward to. Distraction has become my best friend – whether it’s binge-watching a new show, reading a gripping novel, or listening to calming music. It helps to shift my focus away from the upcoming surgery, even if just for a little while. Another practice I've started is simple mindfulness. Just a few minutes each day to focus on my breath and bring myself back to the present moment, rather than letting my mind race ahead to the operating room. It's not always easy, but it’s a small step that makes a big difference in managing my anxiety. I'm also preparing my home for recovery, making sure everything I'll need is within reach, which makes me feel more in control of the 'after.' It's a process, and some days are harder than others. But focusing on these little mental preparation strategies really helps me feel more empowered and less like a helpless patient. If you're also facing surgery, just know you're not alone in feeling overwhelmed. Take it one day at a time, gather your comfort items, ask all your questions, and lean on your loved ones. We've got this!