cjsigmon
I think you're on the right track re fitness. Up your aerobic exercise to strengthen your heart and walk as often and as hard as you can, leading up to surgery. You are fortunate that you can do this, because some patients can't, due to pain. Aside from the fact it will stand you in good stead for your recovery, it will increase bone. I had a bone density test a year before surgery and a year after surgery, I had increased my bone density at an age when losing bone is fairly normal. That's got to be good for our old age!
The other thing is to have every possible thing organised so you need not stress about a thing. That way you can put all your energy into healing. Find out where you can get aids and help such as grabbers, shower chairs, home help etc. before the surgery so they are only a phone call away if you need them. Thank everyone for their offers of help and be prepared to take them up on it if and when the time comes. (That part may be hard, as most of us are very independent.) But you will find that people will want to help, if asked.
And don't forget diet. Yes, losing a few pounds will help, it will increase your feelings of well-being, as well as taking a load off your back once up and about. But if you restrict your intake, make sure your nutritional needs are taken care of.
Wishing you all the very best. Sounds like you're on the threshold of a brand new life!
Surgery March 3, 2009 at almost 58, now 63.
Dr. Askin, Brisbane, Australia
T4-Pelvis, Posterior only
Osteotomies and Laminectomies
Was 68 degrees, now 22 and pain free