Pt 2 – How To Survive Brain Surgery
Now that I am almost 3 years post-surgery I have a few updates to this post.
Keeping My Hair Short
I really want to say that I’ve been keeping my hair short because of the style and because I like it. Both are mostly true. But, a big part of me has kept it short because of being scared something else will happen. I think it is a way for me to be prepared & something that I can control. Three months ago, I made the decision to actually start growing my hair out again. It has been a process and now I constantly feel a little “shaggy” after nearly 3 years with 3 inch hair.
Ignore what anyone else says and grow your hair back when you are ready. It’s just hair. If it makes you feel better keeping it short, do it! If you wish your hair was back to what it was prior, find a great stylist and talk about extensions. The goal is to do a little something that helps you recover. Only YOU will know what that is.
Invest In A Heating Pad
I still live by my heating pad. On the days the headaches are bad or my body just aches I reach for the heating pad before meds every time. We have an older version of this one & I love it! I really should keep one at my office for the days I have body pain but I haven’t done that yet.
Get Your Eyes Checked
My Neurosurgeon & Neurologist didn’t mention this to me but my mom who is a former nurse did. It’s important to stay on top of your eye exams after surgery. Your field of vision can change and it is important to get this checked. I get my eyes checked more often now than I ever have. Without my vision I would have a lot of difficulty making soap!
Great Doctors
Finding a Doctor who is willing to listen takes a lot of time and effort on your part. Call, research, interview, and do whatever it takes until you find your match. I’ve gone through more doctors than I can count but I finally found a PCP that listens, emails with me, and will take her time to help me find the right specialists when I need them. To me, it is worth every extra penny that I spend. She is able to connect me to doctors that are like her and will help me stay at my peak.
I am lucky because we have great company-provided insurance. I know everyone is in different situations so find the best person that you can afford, is on your plan, and that you feel comfortable with. Sometimes that means driving for a bit ex: my PCP is in DC when we live 60 miles away.