This topic is about someone who is preparing for surgery to repair a parastomal hernia, which happens to be scheduled on their birthday. They humorously mention that they might receive uncrossed checks as birthday gifts. While they are in the hospital, their spouse will keep everyone updated on their progress.

Here are some helpful pieces of advice and insights for anyone going through a similar experience:

1. Take your recovery slowly. Healing from hernia repair takes time, so it's important to avoid lifting heavy objects or over-exerting yourself in the early weeks.

2. Be prepared for significant post-operative pain. It's crucial to communicate regularly with your medical team to manage this pain effectively.

3. Some surgeons use a technique called "separation of parts" or component separation instead of using mesh. This method brings the abdominal muscles together without using foreign materials, which can reduce the risk of mesh rejection or infection and may result in a stronger repair.

4. It's common to leave the hospital with surgical drains. These are usually removed once the output decreases, so plan your clothing and stoma care accordingly.

5. After any abdominal hernia repair, it's essential to strictly follow lifting restrictions to prevent the hernia from coming back.

6. Emotional and practical support from partners or family members can be incredibly helpful. Having someone like a spouse to support you can boost your morale and assist with day-to-day needs after surgery.