Participant Spotlight: Sue

Sue is 63 years old and joined Surgery Hero while awaiting a total hip replacement. As someone with an interest in health care, she was keen to give the programme a go. Sue enjoyed having regular talks with her coach to talk through her worries and concerns and regularly used the app to support her journey. Since having her operation, she has gone on to make a speedy recovery! 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m 63 and I’m retired. I was asked if wanted to join Surgery Hero and thought I’d give it a go.

Why did you choose to join the Surgery Hero prehabilitation programme?

I’ve always done these sorts of things, if given the opportunity, because I think it’s important to take part and figure out what works and what doesn’t. I have a semi-medical background, I was a clinical biochemist, and so have always had an interest in this sort of thing.

Since completing the programme, how has your approach to managing your own health changed?

I’ve always had a problem with losing weight and have often yo-yo dieted. I wanted to lose weight fast and was not happy if I couldn’t see results. My coach helped to convince me that it should be a long-term thing, and to try and be less impatient. I know that I can be an ‘all or nothing’ person and expect things to be perfect. My coach helped me to see things differently. 

What sort of positive changes have you noticed since being on the Surgery Hero programme?

I’ve always been good at managing certain areas of my health. For example, with my hip, I’ve been very good at doing the recommended exercises. However, I have often struggled with food and discipline in relation to this. My coach and I talked about how I was eating healthy foods and so we focused on the discipline around eating a healthy diet. 

What was your favourite thing about the Surgery Hero programme?

I enjoyed speaking to my coach once a week, especially as I didn’t see many people otherwise. It was nice to have the support and to talk through concerns and queries. I also enjoyed using video call and having that option. The food diary in the app was also useful and much better than other apps that are out there. I wish it could carry on longer!

How was the operation? And how is your recovery going?

The operation went well, and I was out of hospital within 2 days. I’m recovering well and a lot faster than expected. 

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about joining the Surgery Hero programme?

Do it!

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