More Tips for Belgium Bound Hippies

[Guest guest]

First of all, I would like to thank the people who went before me,

from whom many of these tips came. I am just passing the information

along. I just thought this would be helpful for future Belgium bound

hippies who could just be referred to these posts. Many of the tips

could be considered simple common sense, but I was surprised at how

many things I hadn't even considered.

1. I was told to call and place an order for crutches ahead of time

even you can also get them at the hospital from the same guy. I was

told by ordering ahead of time, the crutches would be waiting for

me. To order, call at: 01132-9-240-4289. His fax

is: 01132-9-272-5848.

Make sure you tell him you are Dr. De Smet's patient. He will bring

you two types of elbow crutches and they're both very reasonable.

One stays attached to your elbows while your hands are free ($30?),

the other is unattached. I bought the unattached for $17 because I

didn't think I would need them for very long. The attached version

is probably more practical for longer term use. will bring

both and you should try both to see which feels more comfortable. I

personally didn't like the way the attached version felt, but then

again, I had to keep setting mine down every time I needed to use my

hands. I only used one crutch for most of the time post-surgery, so

it really didn't matter that much. BTW, I was stopped twice on the

streets in LA by people wanting to know where I got them. They are

very lightweight and easy to use.

2. Make sure you learn how to crutch properly, with two and with

one. One of our group endured unneccessary pain because this was

overlooked or not stressed enough. It took another member of our

group to recognize and correct it. You can find websites on the

proper way to crutch and cane. When caning or on one crutch, just

remember, operated leg/opposite hand go together.

3. I never did, but I wish I had bought a body pillow. It would

have made sleeping much easier once you could sleep on your side

again.

4. Ladies, remember you won't have your hands as free post-surgery,

so get a fanny pack and/or backpack as your purse and carry-on.

5. There is a small indoor swimming pool at the hotel and I've been

told post-surgery water therapy is very beneficial. Believe it or

not, Jan, the male nurse, puts on an extremely water-resistant tape

that allows you to shower, bathe, and go into the pool right after

your surgery.

Hope this continues to help.

Donna LBHR 11/13/02 DE SMET