Charleston Bound, part 2

Ashiri- oh my goodness. That is quite a lot if emotion to go through before a procedure that already carries so much emotion. I am so happy they figured this out for you. After reading this, I will be checking in often to confirm my surgery date. Best wishes to you! 

Tami, sounds as if you are on top of it.  Two micro surgeons are really helpful,  keep me posted!

Ashira,

I am so excited for you!  My Charleston friend says it's absolutely beautiful there now. She works a part time job at Magnolia plantation so she knows what's blooming. 

I like The Boathouse restaurant for water, dolphin, and sunset views. It is on Isle of Palms on the inlet between IOP and Sullivans Island. 

I also like restaurants (Waters Edge or RB's) at Shem Creek to sit dockside and see shrimp boats, kayakers, paddleboarders, and dolphins go by. 

And last I liked The Fish House with great views of harbor and sailing and Yorktown aircraft carrier. Nice gift shop too if you want to get your daughter something. 

There are a million great restaurants but I suggested those because you wanted water views. Marty is a local so she will know the best. 

Did you get a condo on beach?  

Keep us posted and have a safe easy drive to Charleston. 

Aahira, Megan Baker was my BS, and I love her, but she's head of the BC center at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). If you're planning reconstruction with Kline/ Massie, I imagine you want a BS in the East Cooper or Roper breast centers.  I didn't have reconstruction.

You got it Ashira, just show up.  Be sure your house is in order.  Get some paper plates.  Find someone who can do light shopping when you get home.  Must be a pretty special ex BF to be helping you out!  With an evening to enjoy the town, def go to the historic district in downtown Charleston.  Put on your walking shoes and eat it up.  While it is always wonderful to eat on the water - Morgan Creek Grill or Boathouse on Isle of Palms, Fleet Landing downtown - seeing the city with the beauty of spring.  It will be in bloom and the weather will be wonderful for walking around.  Try Slightly North of Broad for dinner.  Charleston is the foodie's foodie city.  Really.  Way to many wonderful restaurants, boggles the mind.  Just soak up the atmosphere.

Jacee - you are coming here so much  you might as well make Charleston your home.  BTW, if you look for it on the map, add an R to the bridge name - Ravenel.  And yes, the beautiful weather is finally here. So happy.

Jacee,

I agree!  I am still trying to relocate to Charleston. Love it. 

I'm putting off next surgery until Fall and looking at going to Charleston for a REAL vacation in June. No pre ops, surgery, drains, etc and all that blah! 

Glad you had a wonderful time and have your recon behind you. 

Ashira,

I did not have anyone until third day when husband (now my ex) came down to Charleston. He wasnt supportive or helpful really. It was only good to have him drive me home. I did my own drains and lovenox injections too. 

I so wish I were still down there because I would help you out in a heartbeat. 

ashira,

When I had my pap flap last October, I was by myself during the hospital stay. My hubby drove down with me, drove home the night after my surgery then came back the day I was discharged. I was absolutely comfortable with that - actually the least stressful for me. I am pretty independent and like pinkheart took care of my own care. The most important thing is a driver. I would definitely ask Gail if they would set up a home health nurse after discharge if you need it. I think things will come together for you. While in the hospital they take excellent care of you so don't worry about that at all.

Ashira - wish I could help you but we are not in town when you would be discharged.  You can do the drains and lovenox shots - I was very independent and needed to be in charge.  Poor DH just had to watch and rescue me when I faltered.  Just be sure you have the plan in place and the numbers in your contact list.  For example, know what pharmacy is closest to where you are going to stay (if you let me know where you will be staying, I can give you that info).  Have the name of a driver or cab company.  Dr. K's office should have that info.  Then if you need to get back to the doctor or hospital, you will have easy access.  Can you tell I am a planner?

Marty;

You are a planner!  My gap between hospital and caregiver arrival us short, and I'm putting as many contingencies as I can, taking into account all of the details you mentioned. My next question has to do with the best way for my caregiver to travel from the airport to  the hospital, which is where my car will be. Is there an airport shuttle that can be caught , or do I need to hire a car and driver or a taxi???

Ashira - here is a link the the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau for ground transportation.  The CVB has a wonderful website and you might find other helpful info as a visitor.  

Ashira,

Dr Kline has a driver named James. He is cheaper than a taxi. I can't locate his business card but the office staff can give you his number. The airport is not far from East Cooper hospital. 

logistical support is appreciated. Transportation is now covered and caregiver gap accounted for, thanks to your wonderful suggestions. 

On the road wary tonight and stopped in Paducah.  Gave up on my usual vegetarian leanings, and chose a steak for dinner, in the service of future voluptuousity. (How's that for a new word?) I've become afraid to drink a glass of red wine anymore :-(. What do you all think of that?

Fear is creeping in. Words of wisdom????

Brca35,

Dr Kline doesnt have private driver but James does drive patients for docs around Mt Pleasant. I asked James if he does airport runs and he does. Not free but cheaper than taxi service. I would ask the office staff for more info.