Hi Rachel,

That's great news that it hasn't spread! I had a very similar operation to you including the trachie, feeding tube and my graft was from thigh (14 hrs). It must seem quite daunting to you now (I was very scared before it), but it is completely do-able.

While its awful to have to confront this at your young age, it is actually your youth that can help you to heal better/quicker as well.

I found a whiteboard & pen help with communication after surgery and I found using the "thumbs up/thumbs down" sign language when the nurses asked me a question really came in handy. Oh, and don't forget to ask the nurse for painkillers before your drains come out of your neck & hip (just before you go home).

Anyway, I'm sure you have enough to think about so I'll go and just want to wish you the best for a successful surgery & your recovery.

Cheers,
Margie