Why You Have 2 Choices After Abdominal Surgery: A Success Story

Karen's story shows great courage in the face of adversity. If you have been previouly let down by post-surgery after care, or have had/are going to have surgery, this one is for you.

Thank you Karen for sharing your story with us. We are proud of all you have acheived!

“I’m 57 and live near South Milton with my husband and cockapoo. Our three now grown-up children, all live quite near and keep us busy! Having sold our business 4 years ago we keep occupied with other business and voluntary roles. I enjoy Pilates, running, swimming, walking my dog, socialising with friends, cooking, and holidays!

Unfortunately, I started to experience heavy bleeding in 2019. After many abnormal blood tests, scans, and other tests, it was suddenly decided I needed a total hysterectomy in October 2020 as there was a possibility, I had cancer. Prior to this, I was relatively fit and healthy, walking the dog daily and doing Pilates 3 times a week (online at that point). I’d also completed the Couch to 5k.

I was aware that Wendy is a Women’s Health Specialist Physio, at the HealthHub, so when I found out I needed an urgent hysterectomy, it was very reassuring to be able to contact the clinic and pre-arrange my post-operative physio sessions with her. She also sent me some helpful things I could start immediately after the operation, including diet and exercises. This was invaluable at that time as there was no physio support at the hospital due to COVID restrictions (at the time).

It was a frustrating time before my operation as I’d started to feel that things were starting to ‘click’ in Pilates classes. I was also looking, feeling, and moving probably the best I had done in many years. I was rather fed up with the thought of having to ‘start again’ after the requisite amount of recuperation following major abdominal surgery. However, Wendy was so supportive, so understanding but most importantly gave me confidence that I would get back to doing the things I enjoyed. This made me feel so much better.

With Wendy’s care, and her communication to the rest of the team regarding my transition back into classes, I was able to return to Pilates and back to all the other activities I enjoy. She also helped me further by giving me advice about the menopause which obviously affected me hugely following the sudden surgery. Wendy also gave me recommendations of specialists to contact for further advice which has proved invaluable. Understanding about menopause generally and specialist care and advice is still woefully inadequate, and pretty non-existent from the hospital!

When I was in hospital it was very sad to see other women who were not receiving help and probably won’t get the specialist care that is so important after such a huge procedure. I know how lucky I am to be able to access specialist physio help when I need it, and post hysterectomy this was very important.

Thankfully I got the all-clear a couple of weeks after the surgery. With Wendy’s help and guidance, I was able to return to doing everything I had done previously and more! Coming to terms with having a hysterectomy can be tough, but for me, feeling good about myself, how I move, and look have helped hugely. I even re-did Couch to 5k!

My daughter and I have been coming to the HealthHub (formally QuayPhysio) for many years to help us manage various issues including knee and back pain resulting from a genetic condition and post operatively following knee surgery. We have had very supportive and professional care from the whole team.

Wendy’s help has been invaluable to me. She is the ultimate professional and deals with the sensitivities around women’s health physio in such a caring way that it is not in the least bit embarrassing. The support I now receive from Vic at Pilates, Naomi for further knee physio, and Abbie for fitness is also so important to me. They are all excellent!

I’d say to anyone considering booking an appointment, just do it! You won’t regret it. I know that the body can bounce back after a challenge such as major abdominal surgery, provided you have the right support. My years ahead can now be as active and busy as those behind me!”

 - Karen, South Milton

So, you ultimately have 2 choices after abdominal surgery (or any other surgery for that matter). You can choose to be proactive and get the help to get back to living life on your terms, or, you can choose to stay stuck and be limited.

If you are needing or have had abdominal surgery like this lady and are looking for some more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01548 852355 or email [email protected] We can arrange a FREE call or inhouse discovery visit with Wendy our Pelvic Health Physio who will be able to answer questions and guide you on what to do next.

This is also great for if you’ve had surgery a while ago and haven’t got back to do the things you want. It isn’t too late to make changes!

You can find more of our client success stories here