All rooms private in Rochester?

@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?

Thank you so much for the words of encouragement and wisdom, Debra! I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. You are so right about it coming up fast, but there are also days where it can't come fast enough, just want to put it behind me. I too am trying to focus on being prepared for afterwards...bought a comfy robe and slippers for the hospital (I'm more of a yoga pants and Birkenstock sandal kind of girl :)) I bought the bras, too. My hubby, who is my great support person, and I have been cooking some meals to freeze for when we come home so that is not a hassle. Great tips on the daily showering with fresh wash clothes and peppermint soap, never heard of that soap, what made you choose it?
I'm still waiting on pre-approval from my insurance so that is causing a bit of angst as well...but hopefully that will be short lived and I'll know soon.
I sure hope you are doing well and that looking back on your decision to fly across the country to go to Mayo was the right thing for you!
Thanks again for taking the time to respond. (hugs)