Michelle,
A few practical pointers. HAve some one pick up a soft pillow filled with the stuff they use in Beanie babies. I have gotten Cushie pillows at Walgreen's. Do you have Crocs?? I found that they help equalize the differece in height when you have a boot on after surgery. Be sure to have youer doctor order pt for home. The therapist came out a few times and the exexcises helped. You will slowly be able to graduate from liquids to soft to normal foods. A varied menu will certainly help.
THe surgery and immediate post surgical recovery will be rough but the results are worth it. Please pm me if you have any quedtions