Things they Don't tell you about careing for a spouse Post-Op

The Calm before the storm

Preparing to send your spouse into the OR (for any reason) can be very nerve wrecking but make no mistake that this time is the calmest you will have for the next 4 to 6 weeks. Put a smile on your face as you kiss your spouse good luck right before they are taken into the operating room. Take a deep breath and have positive thoughts.  If its required that the patient has to spend a night or two in hospital, please....Take full advantage! GET SOME SLEEP!

This truly is the Calm so take care of yourself. Go to bed early, have that glass of wine, read that book you been meaning to start and brace yourself for what is about to come. 

You will be exhausted

The average recovery time for most surgery is 4 to 6 weeks but for the first 3 weeks, the patient will be totally dependant on you for pretty much everything. If your marriage is one where you each have your perspective chores and a system that works accordingly, then be prepared to pull Double-Duty. Not only will you be responsible for your own chores but now you will also be responsible for your partner's.
Pace yourself....or you will find yourself feeling overwhelmed and exhausted!

Self care is a must    

During this time of caring for your spouse, please remember to take care of yourself. Do not get LOST in the caregiver role. Whether its a book you've been planning to read or a friend you've been meaning to visit with or even your weekly workout routine; make sure you JUST DO IT! When you are caring for a recovering spouse you will most definitely need some 'ME' Time. In order to combat the feeling of being overwhelmed, self care is must! Meditation, a walk outside (with your dog if you have one) and even a HOT bubble bath can be great stress relievers.

The Rainbow will come

When you least expect it, your recovering spouse will get up and do something for themselves and may even offer to do something for you. This comes around the 3 week mark and you will instantly feel the weight of overwhelming pressure getting lighter and lighter. Ah the winds have shifted and you will now feel things getting back to normal (whatever that is for you).

Caring for a spouse is part of the job, remember, in sickness and in health? I know my spouse has taken the best care of me after a surgery and vice verse, so I just wanted to share with ya'll the ups and downs of it all so you can be prepared if you find yourself caring for your spouse after surgery and to be an easier patient if the situation is reversed.


I hope this post was helpful.
Ciao for now
Michelle Greene