Thanks, all! These replies help a ton. Ive done very well after surgery (11 days out now) and was basically a walk in the park compared to rest, I'm guessing. Ive learned so much on this site; I think Im just learning to balance how to read/learn with reading too many horror stories that add only to my anxiety. I just needed a little reassurance that I will get through it. If all of you have done it, and many more, I know I can and will. I really appreciate the advice re: intake, water, mouth hygeine etc and have already started to gather supplies. I agree with PaulB who discussed being prepared; it gives us a sense of control over at least one aspect of an uncontrollable situation.
Anyway thanks again and Im sure Ill be talking to all of you again very soon. As mentioned above, they will not allow Rads to start for another 2 weeks-ish so I have some time to be normal until then.