Tips for holiday gathering post-surgery

It’s important to enjoy the holidays, especially if you recently had a major surgery. Chelsey Daniels, a physician assistant on an Aurora Health Care abdominal transplant and hepatobiliary surgery team, shares the following helpful eating and gathering suggestions for anyone who recently had a major surgery, including an abdominal transplant.

“Many patients have likely had a major surgery to give them more quality years of life. I always encourage our patients to modify their plans to create a healthy environment that supports their post-surgical recovery,” says Daniels. “Especially around the holidays, we want our patients to have the most enjoyable experience, creating positive memories with their family and friends.”

Meals and snacking

• Avoid raw or undercooked meats, eggs, poultry, fish, onions or shellfish.
• Be cautious of buffet foods. If they have been left out too long, there is a risk of food-borne bacteria developing.
• Use only pasteurized apple cider and dairy products.
• Try to avoid foods high in salt as this may cause water retention or elevated blood pressure.
• Be sure to stay well hydrated with plenty of water.
• If you recently had surgery, let someone else do the cooking this year if your energy is lower.
• Opt for fresh, healthy whole foods if you can, but it’s okay to enjoy a dessert or two.

Interactions with others

• Avoid contact with any friend or family member who is displaying signs of illness.
• Wash hands frequently, especially before eating. Bring hand sanitizer with you.
• COVID is still ever-present, so wearing a KN-95 or N-95 mask may be recommended to protect yourself from infection.
• You may tire out more easily, especially if the transplant was recent. Allow yourself to take breaks or cut a party short if needed. A smaller celebration may be more appropriate.
• Instead of attending a religious service where there is a large gathering of people, consider an online service to avoid infections.
• Take advantage of outdoor activities if these are an option.
• Laughter is the best medicine – spend this time with your closest friends and family and have some laughs.

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