Fears of Surgery

On December second I get to have arthroscopic surgery to repair tears in the cartilage around my shoulder (the labrum). The length of recovery will depend on how much damage there actually is; hopefully it’s just some minor scar tissue buildup and not extensive tears.

1.       When I begin swimming again will I just go around in circles since my right arm will be so strong?

2.       Will I get over the fear of falling? Snowshoeing and falling go hand in hand for me and that could be a real mental challenge to get over.

3.       I plan on lifting weights with my left arm while my right is still in a sling. Will the left arm become grossly distorted when compared to the shriveled right arm?

4.       I’ve only had surgery once before, yes I have been lucky. When I was four years old I had my tonsils out and my stuffed dog Bela came along. Do you think I can take him again?

5.       People wear pajamas everywhere now. I am supposed to wear loose fitting comfortable clothes to the surgical center, but the idea of a 58 year old wearing pj’s out in public seems weird to me. I think sweat pants will suffice.

6.       If the anesthesia wears off and I wake up during surgery is it okay to scream?

7.       Will the doctor give me a tape of the surgery so I can watch it later?

8.        Will Jan get tired of waiting on me? I’m a bad patient when I have a cold, can’t imagine what this will be like. Have pity on her.

9.       Is Bourbon a suitable alternative to pain medication?

10.   How long before I get sick of daytime television?