Foursons,
Congrats on a sucessful surgery
It sounds like you are doing well which is great to hear.
I guess after you go through surgery yourself and then you read other about peoples' experiences you see how different programs work.
Like I had a catheter (sp?) in place after surgery. Gosh I hated that thing and couldn't wait to get it out. The nurses pointed out to me that with all the fluid they were pumping in me it would be hard and more painful for me to keep getting out of bed to pee!
They were right. But they did have me up about four hours after surgery just to walk around, catheter and IV pole included
As far as eating they told you anything you like but pureed? I didn't think I was on a really restrictive diet but I just couldn't tolerate anything but clear liquids, anything else gave me really bad gas.
I think that it is great you and your friend are able to go through this together. Blessings on you both
Take Care!!!