Bobert. I've had several surgeries, three of them far more invasive and risky (yes, two were risky due to the possibilty of facial nerve damage) and the only things I LET bother me were knowing Mum was worried and, while in the prep room, next to me, a young mother was crying while holding the hand of a girl about five years old... the girl said, "Don't cry Mommy, the doctor said I will be just fine." That's when I lost it.

Think of some jokes to tell the staff. But never ask, "What's up, doc?" They HATE that. Maybe, with a gesture, something like, "Here's a big thumbs up to a successful op." Or, "I can't wait to play the geetar agin. Hope this works. I been frettin over this op." with a big grin. Hang a camera around yer neck and say, "I was hoping to get some pics in case I gotta do this by myself someday." Maybe someone else can make some suggestions.

By the way, shave all the hair from the middle of yer forearm on down. And, as fer usin yer left hand fer chores as you said you have figured out how to do, I hope you have taken into consideration the possibilty of infection ocurring while doing such chores. Avoiding infection is as important as anything else and perhaps moreso.

Again, re the nerves, like I said, just do it. Or Spaw will call you a pussy.