Post-surgery scoliosis

I am titanium!!!

Exactly one week ago yesterday, last Monday, I had spinal fusion surgery to correct my scoliosis. I had two titanium rods screwed into my spine to straighten me up. As known, this was the second early morning wake up to go in early for the surgery, having the first date being cancelled. Luckily there was a different outcome this time and I did end up having the surgery.

Going in on Monday I felt a lot less nervous the second time around. I guess this time I knew what to expect so wasn’t worried about much. It all happened a lot quicker this time as I had a morning surgery. They did the normal checks and asked a heaps of questions then I was taken through just after 8:30. The plan was to put the anaesthetic through a drip in my hand but that wasn’t working so I ended up needing to have the mask. I remember thinking the gas smelt a bit like nail polish remover then everything started going blurry.

 

I remember hardly anything from the rest of that day. I woke up in recovery which I can’t remember and at some point I bit my lip which was quite annoying. I just remember I kept thinking I was dreaming. I think I then slept for the next 6 hours and woke up just as a little visitor was wandering past. An Australian Shepherd dog came and kept me company in my room but we soon both fell asleep (haha.)

The following days I was feeling a lot more awake so wasn’t sleeping all day. I was amazed at how quickly they got me up walking around and sitting up and how easily I did it. Surprisingly for me, I’ve had almost zero pain this whole time thanks to the very strong pain killers I was on but that did mean that while I was in hospital I was feeling really nauseas a lot of that time. On the third day I really struggled with this and I was a little behind on my times for medication so my back was quite sore as well. Day three was by far the hardest day. After getting through that day I did start to feel a lot better.

Throughout the next few days I had a few people come in to visit me up until Thursday. In the morning they sent me off to get X-rays which I didn’t think I could do as I didn’t think I could sit for long enough. I did do it though which was tough but good to get done. When I came back they told me that as soon as I see the physio I’d be ready to go home that day. This was a massive surprise as I definitely did not feel ready to leave. To be honest I didn’t want to leave but after seeing my physio and talking to my nurse I was ready to go. The journey home however was definitely the worst it could possibly be. There was a crash on a freeway so it was an extra half an hour trip which was just horrible. That night was hard to settle after that trip but I soon got into the home routine over the next few days.

Since being at home I’ve received many flowers, chocolates and balloons which I love. Thanks to everyone for all the lovely messsages. I’m feeling good at the moment and am improving everyday. Now to focus on recovery!

9 Comments

  • Kodie

    Bethan sorry I didn’t read earlier but I’ve been having trouble with my wifi. That’s such a great post I think I’ve read it like 5 times😂 I love the photo of u in the wheel chair cause your legs look so long (almost like jarrod🤣) I love u so so ,ucb school hasn’t never been the same without u. Miss u heaps and it’s good to hear that your traveling in the right direction. Love uuuuuu💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

  • Sandra Hogan

    Well done Bethan you are doing amazingly well. Keep up,the good work. Take care. Lots of love and thoughts from us all.

  • Adrienne Moulder

    Congratulations on not just surviving surgery but smashing it and coming out the other side with such strength and grace. You are an amazing young woman whom we are very proud to call our niece.
    Every day will get easier as you continue to get stronger. Be kind to yourself through the good and the bad days. We are always here if and when you need us.
    All our love,Uncle Daz, Aunty Ady, Hayden& Josh❤️

  • zoe shewring

    Bethan you have been so brave and amazing can’t believe its only a week since you had your operation you are super girl and we love you . XXXX Granny and Grampy

  • Marlene Moulder

    Well done Bethan knew you could do it, very brave girl we are so proud of you. Take your time get better and you will soon be your old self again. Lots of love Nanna and Grandpa

  • Jenny Reidy

    You are amazing Bethan .
    What a journey and what a positive attitude .
    I like the bell in the table at home – I hope Mum, dad and Rhys are all running to your attention !! Lol

    Will pop in and see you soon

    Xxxx

  • Julie Moulder

    BETHAN MOULDER you are a wonder woman!!!!

    I cant believe just how well you have recovered from this surgery and your bravery to take on anything they give you. From the look of fear in your eyes at conquering the task of even sitting up when I first saw you, to how you are now walking around so freely in UNDER A WEEK in simply amazing.

    You are my hero!!!!

    Love Aunty Jules xxxx

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