I had major abdominal surgery on January 9th to remove a large ovarian cyst. My favorite exercise is swimming, so when I get clearance from my MD, the first place I want to go is the pool!!
Before my surgery, I could swim a mile and a quarter in about 40 minutes. (I know, manatee speed) I'm hoping that the long term result of the surgery will be that I can increase my speed and endurance. I'm wondering if anyone else out there has had similar abdominal surgery and has any advice for getting back in shape.
Parents
Former Member
In 1997-1998, I had several surgeries on my gut to remove my colon & rebuild my bottom. I started to swim one week after the operation. At the time I had an illeostmy bag & a hickman. I got soem very weird looks from my fellow swimmers.
Before I got really sick, I weighed 207 pounds. Right before the surgery, I weighed 172 pounds. Now I weigh 183 pounds. the surgeon & my nurse caseworker both said that I should be okay after about three months after the reattachment. I had many complications. I have never regained the weight, nor have I really regained the speed. Oddly, while I ws wearing the bag & taking follow-up chemo, I had some of the fastest times ever pot-college swimming. Now though I'm very slow.
I hope all goes well with you. Please though remember recovery doesn't always lead to the place you were before. Frequently, it will lead you to a very different place. It was a tremendous growing experience. My attitude towards life and other peole is so different now.
Good luck,
Craig
In 1997-1998, I had several surgeries on my gut to remove my colon & rebuild my bottom. I started to swim one week after the operation. At the time I had an illeostmy bag & a hickman. I got soem very weird looks from my fellow swimmers.
Before I got really sick, I weighed 207 pounds. Right before the surgery, I weighed 172 pounds. Now I weigh 183 pounds. the surgeon & my nurse caseworker both said that I should be okay after about three months after the reattachment. I had many complications. I have never regained the weight, nor have I really regained the speed. Oddly, while I ws wearing the bag & taking follow-up chemo, I had some of the fastest times ever pot-college swimming. Now though I'm very slow.
I hope all goes well with you. Please though remember recovery doesn't always lead to the place you were before. Frequently, it will lead you to a very different place. It was a tremendous growing experience. My attitude towards life and other peole is so different now.
Good luck,
Craig
