Hi I had a laminectomy and discectomy L4-L5 last March.
If you don't already have strong thighs and arms build them up if you can. I am so glad I used an elipitical for 2 weeks prior to the surgery as it was just enough to provide the muscle power needed to get up out of bed. You will roll on your side, use your arms to push yourself up to a sitting position and then your thighs to stand up.
The pain was easily controlled with meRAB. It was uncomfortable but nothing like I wanted to scream in agony or anything. I would break a vicodan in half when I got home and that took the edge off. I was glad my hubby was home to help though. The first two weeks I was tired and wouldn't have been able to cook. I mostly stayed in bed or sat on the couch and shuffled my way around the house. I did buy elastic banded lounging pants to wear, you know, those flannel ones. The healing process hurts but it was so wonderful to not have that stabbing pain down the leg. Good luck