Marlo
Hang in there you will make it. I didn't have a full hip replacement, but had tumors removed from my bone and some sturctural support added in my hip. I was in the hospital for 4 days and then "on the couch" for 3 more weeks (I'm 26 years old). Then I was on crutches for a month past that. My biggest advise is to realize that being in the hospital is not like on TV. You will basically sleep alot and do your Physical therapy when the people come. Don't expect to get reading for work or email done, just take it easy. When at home same thing applies, don't try to do to much and ASK for help. Again, you will not be doing much, just watching movies and sleeping. I got a kitten the day I got home from the hospital and it really lifted my spirits and helped recovery. Lastly, in the world of surgery there is no such thing as a schedual. Your doctor will give you some idea of how long recovery will take, but everyone is different so don't worry if you take longer than the docotor says and also don't make plans based on your docotors predicitions. I was "on the couch" a week later than the doc said, but off crutches a month early. We are all differnt. Just hang in there and remember to let your friends and family help you. It helps you and lets them feel less helpless to participate in your recovery.