My shoulder replacement journey: Personal journal entries
Welcome to my personal journal, where I share my experiences and insights through every step of my shoulder replacement journey. Whether you're just starting out, in recovery, or simply curious, I hope my words provide comfort and understanding.
Surgery day reflections
It's finally surgery day! I'm a mix of excitement and nerves. Last night, I followed all the pre-surgery instructions, including my special shower and pre-wipes, and managed to get some good sleep. I just took my morning medicines with my last sip of water at 5:15 AM. We need to be at the hospital by 9:15 AM, so we'll be leaving the house around 8:30 AM. We were called earlier and asked if we could come in earlier. We got to the hospital at 8:45AM. I'll post another update later today or tomorrow, depending on how I'm feeling. Your prayers are greatly appreciated!
Continued Surgery Day 4/6/26
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Following the preparation conducted by the nursing staff for the surgical procedure, I was transported to a designated recovery and preparation area for the administration of a nerve block. During this time, I was given a sedative, colloquially referred to as "happy juice," after which the nerve block was administered. My recollection of this moment is somewhat limited. Subsequently, I was moved into the operating room, transferred from the bed to a narrower surgical table, and I have no further memories until I regained consciousness in the recovery room.
Stuart's side of what happened for Surgery day
The Day of Lisa’s Shoulder Surgery
(April 6, 2026)
The morning got off to an earlier start than expected. The hospital called around 8 AM asking if
we could come in sooner due to schedule adjustments — and since we were pretty much ready,
we headed out. Check-in at Zeeland Hospital was smooth since most of it had been handled
online, and we were directed straight back to pre-op. Nurses ran through all the standard
checks, the anesthesiologist came in to go over the procedure, and everything was in order.
They took Lisa back at 9:50 — nearly an hour ahead of the scheduled 10:45 start.
I settled into the waiting area with a coffee and my phone. The room had a big electronic status
board tracking all the procedures — which I photographed so I wouldn’t lose track of things as
they unfolded. I didn’t know which number was Lisa’s at first, but a helpful nurse sorted that out
quickly, handing me a card with her number and assigned post-op room. The board showed
surgery wrapping up at 12:45, and within five minutes someone came to bring me up. Lisa was
wheeled in right as I arrived. Along the way I’d also snapped photos of the whiteboards in both
the prep and recovery rooms — a handy way to keep all the details straight in the moment.
About four hours total from arrival to recovery room — as smooth as you could hope for. The
nerve block held well through the afternoon, and Lisa’s first Percocet came around 7 PM as it
began to wear off. After talking it over, I headed home for the night, fed the boys (Teddy & Chai),
and sat down to watch the NCAA Championship — which ended perfectly, with our beloved
Maize and Blue Wolverines taking the title.
Pictures from the day of surgery and the stay in hospital
Last Picture Monday, April 6th
On Monday night, while in the hospital, I had the thrill of watching Michigan clinch the National Championship in basketball! Go Blue! 🏀〽️
Tuesday Morning Sunrise from Hospital room
Witnessing a stunning sunrise from my hospital room on Tuesday morning!
One week post operative
It’s been one week since my reverse shoulder replacement surgery, so I wanted to share a quick update. Overall, things are going well. My pain levels still have their ups and downs, but I’m gradually improving each day. I’ve started transitioning off Percocet and am now managing more with Tylenol, which feels like a big step forward.
I’m still wearing my sling full-time, only taking it off for showers. I’m hoping that might change after my post-op appointment next week. That visit should also give me the green light to start physical therapy, which I’m really looking forward to.
Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit restless—ready to move more instead of sitting around all day. I did get outside briefly yesterday to look over a few things that need to be done on the trailer to get ready for the upcoming season, which felt good.
I’ve also been keeping an eye on my blood pressure, as it’s been running a little low since surgery. And at home, the dogs are definitely confused having me around all the time… they’re not quite sure what to make of it!
10 Day Post Operative Update
In the ten days since my surgery, I've been sleeping relatively well, and my pain has significantly decreased. However, since discontinuing the opioid pain medication, I’ve encountered a new challenge. Last night was particularly difficult; I felt restless and only managed to get about four hours of sleep.
I reached out to my surgeon, who assured me that what I’m experiencing is normal. I just want to return to a restful sleep once again.
First day at home! I think Chai missed me.
As I settled in, I noticed how much my furry friend had been waiting for my return. Chai's excited barks and wagging tail were a heartwarming welcome, reminding me of the special bond we share. It's incredible how pets can sense our emotions and respond with unconditional love. This first day at home is not just a reunion; it's a reminder of the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives, making every moment together feel like a cherished memory in the making.
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A grateful reader