New to this Forum... Wanted to Share

[Dovajorth]

I had surgery on February 13, with an anticipated 6-8 week recovery period. (It was a cervical spinal fusion using a piece of bone from my hip to replace a damaged disc.)

I decided that I would use the recovery period to detox myself. Since February 12, I have not had any nicotine, caffeine, or soda pop. These three were always so strongly linked that I decided the only way to kick one was to kick all.

The after-effects of anethesia from major surgery can cause many people to taste things differently for awhile after surgery (can last for weeks). I took advantage of this as well. I even tried a cup of coffee about a week after surgery and it tasted a little bit off to me... I couldn't even finish it. Soda pop tasted like pure sugar syrup.

During recovery, I took the prescribed medication (vicodin) and ate whatever I wanted. My cigarettes were long gone and I knew no one would bring me any. I couldn't drive for several weeks. I drank only water, decaffeinated tea, and gatorade. I have put on some weight, but I am also going for physical therapy, which is getting me into a regular exercise routine. Losing 10-15 pounds of excess weight will be a cinch for me now.

I smoked 2-3 packs a day for 20 years. Ironically, my dad had heart surgery the week before my surgery, and he quit a 3-4 pack a day 40+ year habit as well. My mom is having hip replacement next week, and she has also smoked for 40+ years. She has seen my success and now knows she can conquer it, too! It can be done! Develop a plan that will work for you. But know that post-op is a great time to regenerate and rebuild, start fresh.

Blessings!
Doug

[angelgirl]

Hey Doug,,

Thanks so much for the wonderful inspiration!!! You don't know just how much that
helped... What a great post!!! Prayers to you and your family!!!

Love,
Becky

[historyteach]

THank you, Doug for sharing your tips!
Yea, surgery isn't necessary to quit, but, it's as good an opportunity to do so if you have to have it anyway!

Shalom!

[jlo34]

Welcome, Doug,
I'm glad your surgery has gone well, as has your father's. Hopefully, your mother's will also go well. How fantastic for all of you to choose to basically all quit together with surgery as your link!!! Kinda funny, but great!

Take care, God bless,
Jen