My son was also 12 when he had fusion surgery. I thought I'd mention that I, too, have a very low bed. After my son's surgery, I thought that maybe his bed was a little too high up for him so I had him try sleeping in my bed. He was absolutely miserable trying to lower himself into my bed so I switched gears again and we put him back in his bed where he was fine, for the most part.
Something else I found helpful was keeping a baby monitor (I bought one just for the surgery and then gave it to a new mother I met) in his room for the first few days so I could hear him anytime I wasn't in there with him. My husband and I took turns sleeping in his room though, the first few nights, just in case he needed something.
While we were in the hospital, I kept a little notebook to write down all the doctors, nurses and therapists names as well as the meds my son was given and times they were given. I also used it after we got home in order to keep track of the times I gave him the meds. It really helped me to keep track of, and remember things and for quite a while, my son sort of liked reading it.
I know it's a really stressful time for you right now but soon it will all be over and it will be such a relief to have the surgery over with. Remember to get him walking as soon and as often as possible after the surgery. It really helps with recovery.
Hang in there!
Laurie
Mother of Alexander & Zachary:
Alex is 16 years old and in the 11th grade. He has congenital scoliosis due to a hemivertebrae at T10. Wore a TLSO brace for 3 1/2 years. Pre-op curves were T45 & L65; curves post-op are approx. T31 & L34. Had a posterior spinal fusion from T8 to L3 on 7/12/07 at age 12. Doing great now in so many ways, but still working on improving posture.
Zach is 13 years old and very energetic.