Don’t worry about how you’re measuring up to an ad (ever). Get through a day and you’ll get through a week and soon this part will be over. Take the serious pain meds then shift to the OTC stuff but still take it — it does help.

Do take a shower and slowly reach your arms up to your hair, don’t worry about perfect. I used a lanyard for the drains in the shower. They are your buddies. Everything they remove helps you heal.

I found it easier to strip the drains using the same alcohol pads that you use to clean them, to give it some slip. Or a damp paper towel. I also did it with some body wash in the shower (with the drains closed). Get a little routine and it goes quickly.

You can do this! I kept thinking that other women got through it, so I would too. Then go back to the couch and rest up. 🩷