Great advice, Christine! I haven't had a similar operation but I was hospitalized for nearly a month with a year long recovery from my bone marrow transplant two years ago. I don't have much to add but I'll pass along some helpful advice I got from others beforehand. If you're going to be hospitalized for awhile, bring some personal comforts from home that will make the hospital feel less institutional - my favorites were my own fluffy pillow with a soft pillowcase and a soft fleece comforter. Also, my iPad was invaluable for communication, entertainment, and for storing and viewing lots of digital photos of family, friends, pets, favorite places. If you don't have or want an electronic tablet, maybe a digital photo frame. My husband tacked a string to the wall to display my cards and holiday decorations for Thanksgiving and Christmas. When you're not feeling well, it's sometimes surprising how much the smallest comforts can perk you up a bit. While you're in the hospital get up and walk, walk, walk as much as you're able. Best of luck to you! You have some hard times ahead but take each day as it comes, and you can get through it. Try to stay upbeat but don't beat yourself up over feeling angry, depressed, and defeated sometimes.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery,
Karen