I have no direct experience with surgery like this, but my Mom says it was a breeze when she had hers out. As I try to be encouraging, all I am coming up with is... look forward to the good drugs?

:-)

Deep breaths and focusing on VVC are probably the best things.

On another note, I just realized that Chicago is only a bout a six hour drive from here! I shall have to contemplate VVC for next year!