Hello @acarla,
I remember well what it felt like to "prepare" for open heart surgery. It's more of a mental/emotional prep than anything. Have you read any of the posts that I have made? Or @walkinggirl? We both went through a septal myectomy at Mayo Clinic. I have not one ounce of regret and am ever so grateful I was able to get my life back.
I do not look back with anything but acceptance and gratitude.
It's not fun.
It's not easy.
It's not as horrible as I imagined. And boy did I have big imagination!
That being said...I was new here on Connect and reached out for advice, just like you. I was so pleased to hear from others, and it really helped me knowing others had gone through this, and other than a few members who have had some set backs, for the most part the decades of experience in open heart surgery has paid off. They have this down. The septal myectomy is what is the specialized part of this whole thing. Having a surgeon with tons of experience is vital for a good outcome. I knew I did...but that still didn't stop me from running down the road like my hair was on fire! I was scared! I would be crazy to not be!
But I also have strong faith, and gave the whole thing to God.
I also packed smart! Thanks to help from here on Connect!
Had I not known, it would have been a little harder.
Lounge bras. A total must! You will not want underwire anywhere near your sternum for awhile.
Pull on pants...like sweats or yoga pants. Easy to wear and you are swollen all over after surgery.
Slip on shoes. Nobody wants to bend over and put shoes on for awhile either.
Some recommended button up shirts because it's hard to put your arms up over head...but I didn't have that issue and resorted to loose tee shirts.
Forget about doing your hair for some time too. Using your arms overhead won't be fun.
Forget about sleeping on your side too. It took weeks for me to get there.
A recliner is nice, but not necessary.
A helper at home is a must! You can't drive for at least a month.
Any other questions? I am sure I didn't cover yours all!
When and where is your surgery?