How can I stay occupied during breast reconstruction recovery?
Recovering from breast reconstruction can take up to 4-6 weeks and if you’re anything like me, staying at home for recovery can be – for lack of better words – boring.
To help cure your boredom over the next month and half, we looked to some of our breast reconstruction rookies for advice on ways to keep yourself entertained, and here is what they came up with!
For the first two weeks or so, you’re most likely going to be experiencing some pain and will be taking pain medications that will make you groggy. During the times you are awake, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and get up and walk around as much as possible. To keep occupied during these two weeks consider the following:
Like movies? Try Netflix! Since you are going to be cooped up in that comfy recliner, a subscription to Netflix may not be such a bad idea. At $7.99 a month, it’s worth it!
Enjoy writing? Consider creating a blog to document your experiences. This will not only help you in your recovery process, but it can help other women following in your footsteps.
Take up a new hobby. Knitting or crocheting can be therapeutic and satisfying. Knit a friend or family member a scarf or blanket. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing someone enjoy something you created!
Write thank you notes to those that have helped you along your journey.
Get in touch with other women going through reconstruction by joining a breast cancer discussion board. Sharing your experiences and telling your story is extremely helpful in the recovery process. Knowing you are not alone is important.
Once you start feeling better are able to move around without feeling tired, our ladies recommend getting outside for a walk. Getting some sunshine and fresh air will make you feel better, especially if you are experiencing any signs of depression.
Have a friend or family member drive you to the store for groceries or to the mall for some retail therapy.
Catch a movie at the theater and be sure to get a bucket of popcorn! A good comedy may lift your spirits and popcorn is just an added buttery delicious bonus!
If you took a lot of pictures throughout your journey, you may consider scrap booking your experiences through breast cancer and reconstruction. But if you didn’t, you may still decide to make a scrapbook of family photos or vacations.
You may not have felt like cooking much in the last few weeks, but now that your energy level has increased, you might feel like getting back in the kitchen. Experiment with new recipes, be creative and have fun. A sweet little dessert won’t hurt, just be sure to check with your nurse to be sure you aren’t still under any caffeine restrictions.
How did you keep occupied during breast reconstruction recovery? Share your ideas with us below!
Author: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and Brandy (Korman) Haslam
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My kids and their friends and my granddaughter colored me pictures and made me pictures and put them on my walls in my bedroom and when I was really down and sad and in a lot of pain, I had focal points . It helped and when I was alone I could look at my pictures and knew I had Love and support.
July 20,2020
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I loved sitting outside and listening to the birds chirping and my neighbor’s outdoor water fountain. I had the most soothing feeling sitting under the shade and taking in deep breaths of fresh air.
July 20,2020
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Kelly
My kids and their friends and my granddaughter colored me pictures and made me pictures and put them on my walls in my bedroom and when I was really down and sad and in a lot of pain, I had focal points . It helped and when I was alone I could look at my pictures and knew I had Love and support.
Delia
I loved sitting outside and listening to the birds chirping and my neighbor’s outdoor water fountain. I had the most soothing feeling sitting under the shade and taking in deep breaths of fresh air.