This is a good idea Bern.  Perhaps as soon as we get the information about when the surgery will take place we can start compiling a schedule of who can be there when.  Ave, Gay - do you think it is necessary for someone to be there with her before the surgery?  Maybe we won't know the answer to this until you get home and see how she is feeling.  I could come home and go to appointments with her if there isn't too much of a gap between the planning and the surgery.  I would like to be there for that and stay in the hospital with her, even though I have forgotten most of what I know!  I'll do my research and brush up!