@micasmom, March 8th is like tomorrow when you're facing open heart surgery!
Seriously, it is coming up quickly and trust me I remember how it feels to prepare for it. Prepare is a funny word to use, because it's mostly all emotional and mental preparation that is the hardest to prepare for.
It is the unknown and the unknown can make us feel insecure.
For me, I had to trust God. I put all my fears and anxiety in His hands. Then I took it back and was stressed again. But finally, I really gave it to Him and that calmed my anxious mind. Some find meditation helpful.
I focused on packing, as I had to fly from across the Country, focused on what it would be like coming home and taking care of some things I would need coming home. For instance, the Mayo wanted me to shower everyday and use liquid soap and a fresh wash cloth each day. So I got a six-pack or ten-pack of soft wash cloths and had them ready. I got Dr Bronner's peppermint soap and had it ready too.
I had, but didn't 100% need a recliner chair. I would have been fine without it too.
I purchased two soft, lounge bras that you can step into. Not easy to use your arms afterwards and the thought of underwire on your sternal wound is not a happy thought!
I had easy to pull on stretchy pants, loose, soft t-shirts and slip on shoes. I was ready to go!
It's a challenge the first week afterwards, but each day gets easier. Walking each day is a must, and increasing the distance becomes simple as time goes by. I apologize for rambling on, but hopefully I was able to address your main concern when you talked about pre-surgery anxiety! Feel free to reach back to me...ask me anything!
Having a support person is important for before, during and after surgery.
Do you have a trusted support person? Is there anything else you many want to know but can't think of?