Addict needs help after upcoming hysterectomy

[ChristineUSA2UK]

Hello. I'm a 43ys old Mom to five, 3 dd and 2 ds. (18, 14, 8, 7 and 4 ys old)  But I'm still trying to be Christine (me). I'm sober since 16 April 1987 with AA / NA / CA.  I was also clean from drugs until abdominal surgeries 5 years ago. After two surgeries, I abused the codeine for a while but gave up easily.

Last abd surgery was Jan 1st 2013, abused codeine (again) and valium post-op. But this time added allsorts of over-the-counter meds. Needed help to give up and a gradual withdrawal. Codeine free now since Aug 1st 2013. Still reducing valium down from 24+mgs a day, now 9mgs a day.

Now I'm waiting for a hysterectomy. Doctors know I'm an addict but they knew all the other times.  Hoping to get through addiction free, sane, with husband and kids un-strangled. HELP!!

[selfinduced]

Ha, Sounds like our kids are related. What method of hysterectomy will you have? I know everyones pain tolerance is different, but if your having the divinci procedure you will be in less pain and need the meds for a shorter time. A full hysterectomy with the more extensive operation you will need the meds for your hospital stay and post discharge (IMO). Can you ask for a med that isn't your drug of choice? Also remember the natural common sense pain solutions heat/sleeping with pillows to prop you/not lifting etc. Having your husband hold the meds is ideal. Wishing you much luck. Keep up posted ok?

[ChristineUSA2UK]

Yes, my husband will hold/dispense my meds. I'm going to try to get a private room and a longer stay in hospital. When I get home, my 4 kids will want Mom/ slave to get back to work and they don't get the whole, "Mom is ill and needs rest idea."
I have been pucking down the loo and had them asking me for drinks and food.

My hubby is taking time of work but after the last op  the kids will leave him watching TV, and wake me up for help.

No date for op yet.But at my AA meeting last night gave me promises of lifts to meetins,, meeting in my hospital room and all the support I could want. So a day at a time I'll get there. Thanks for your support as well.

[ROSYouralright]

If u can have some one hold the pills for you that may work. They can administer them as prescribed. CONGRATS to you on trying so very hard. Its a long hard road but we all deserve it and CAN do it

[dominosarah]

This is always a tough situation when surgery is involved.  Do you have someone that can hold the pills for you?

[HappyDays2Come]

Hi and welcome! Good for you for tapering the valium and getting off the codeine. It sounds like you're doing great! Can you ask your doctor to NOT prescribe you and codeine / narcotic after your surgery? If there are any alternatives (non habit forming)? Be very clear that you are an addict and have a problem. Does your husband know that you're an addict? Can you ask him to hold / distribute your meds to you after your surgery so that you don't abuse them? I'm so glad you posted. Keep us updated!