Karen: My brother was sitting in a chair reading the paper the next morning following surgery. When I walked in, it had been just a bit more than 12 hours since the surgery. He was grumpy (his usual self) and wanted to go home. The doctors wouldn't let him. We were all amazed at how seemingly easy the surgery was for him. While all people are different, the surgery will probably be fine. The radiation & chemo (or whatever treatment is next) will probably be tougher and that is when he will need you the most. Enjoy your trip, your time to be a care taker will come soon enough.