Dear Val XOXO,
Every doctor has his/hers own protocol. Mine was also fine with all things that I was taking, but I stopped using blood thinners (like fish oil, garlic , aspirin etc. ) because I know surgeon that operated my husband's knee told him that, and also many members of this forum. So, I would stop taking any of those 7 days ahead. There is no need to stop using aloe vera, and I don't know what else you take, but definitely there would not be any consequences : ) if you stop and obviously many doctors think that you don't even have to stop, so just relax regarding that issue : )))< , you will be fine there : ))) !
Packing sounds ...well...not so pleasurable, but I am sure it will be needed just for a week or so, and "tip" the nurse WELL (with cookies and little presents) , and I am sure she will be gentle as an angel ; ) ! As soon as she come greet her with : " Oh, God bless you for choosing this profession- you help so many people every day and such a hard job you have (which they do). " "It is shame how little you are paid for all of what you are doing , (again a true statement).
Everybody likes to be acknowledged and I am sure that she will have complete different attitude after that toward you and be extra careful even if she comes grouchy and ready to butcher somebody.
So, relax dear Val, look at your procedure as a salvation from pain, and not as
threat, and you will do fine. Once they call your name - you will be calm as a clam ; ). It happened to Kim and me , so I am sure it will be same with you.
BEST OF LUCK !!!!! If you can choose - take general anesthesia so they won't
poke you with needles and do what they did with me .