Having Scoliosis + Spinal Fusion Surgery

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for surgery was relatively straight forward, but it can seem daunting.

I stayed overnight on my ward the night before I had surgery as mine was first in the morning - this was nice in some ways because it allowed me to become familiar with my surroundings and sleep on the ward.

Looking on forums and YouTube videos is really handy when packing because not everything is listed in your provided checklist.

I was told to bring lots of fun things: books, iPad, films, etc. but in all honesty I was too ill and in pain to do anything! It was only towards the end of my stay that I managed to watch a little TV and some episodes of Heros! But this won't be the same for everyone.

I highly recommend plaiting/braiding your hair before surgery if it's long because it can get matted and tangled very easily when you're lying in bed for a few days!

Button up pyjamas and jogging bottoms are recommended- but I stayed in hospital gowns for 90% of our stay so don't stress too much.

If you forget anything it's okay! Family/friends will be able to get it for you hopefully.

Remember it's only for a little while so don't go overboard. Makeup? No. Jewellery? No. Lots of toiletries? No.

When I arrived at the hospital with my parents the day before my op we had to check in on the ward and then wait to sign some letters and chat to my surgeon's team.

When my bed was ready I got settled and waited to have my blood taken for the final time! Then we were left to chill until the morning, so mum and I played Phoenix Wright. It helped. Trust me.

I had to wake up early the next morning to have a shower, take some pills, get my gown on and leggings that help circulation and prevent bed sores. Fun! Then we just had to wait to be called. Dun dun duuuuuun.