Packing for Masectomy

What to bring with you to the hospital?

1.) Clothing...........If your appointment is in the morning, don't bother with bringing many extra clothing items.  Think about it, you will check in and put on a gown right away.  The gown is what you'll wear for the duration of your stay.  I plan on wearing the same clothing I wore coming to the hospital on my way home.  I will of course bring some clean undies and socks though.  I am planning on wearing sweats, and a zip down; this way if it is painful to lift my arms I'll be able to put that on rather easily.    

2.) Toiletries..........Tooth brush, tooth paste, and face wash.......The hospital will have soap, shampoo, hand sanitizer, etc.  And depending on how everything goes they may or may not let you shower the first couple of days anyways).   No make-up or lotion they don't want you to wear it going into the surgery anyways.

3.) Hat or wig if you prefer.  Brush or comb if you have hair. 

4.) Any medications you take on a daily basis.

5.) Your surgical top, if they gave you one.  (The cami that has the pockets for the drains) 

6.) Entertainment.......I am bringing my laptop, kindle, my cell phone, and some DVD's.  (Don't forget the electronic chargers).  They say no valuables......but I know I will be more comfortable with these items. 

7.) Inspiration........I put together a book by hole punching all the cards my friends and family have sent me.  This way I can read them if I am feeling a bit home sick.  In previous hospital stays I've also brought photos, to cheer the room up a bit.  However I am hopeful that I'll only stay 1-2 nights this time around. 

* Quick suggestion, don't bother bringing in your bag to check in, leave it in the car, and have your husband, mom, or other loved one bring it to you once you are in your room and are recovering.  This way they don't have to lug it around while they are waiting for you during the surgery. 

Here is a picture of my card book, I got this idea from pinterest.  I love how it turned out! 

If you have any suggestions feel free to contribute your ideas.  This is just what friends and family have recommended for me.  Hopefully I didn't forget anything major.  Alright, its time for me to get ready and ship out.  Wish me luck!