I would play it safe. Wrap them in damp paper towel in a plastic bag (with the leaves sticking out if there are any) and leave them in the veggie keeper in the fridge. They should remain dormant until you are ready to plant them.

Either that, or pot them up and leave them in a cool dark garage, or even somewhere warmer, but then you'd have to monitor for light and water needs.

Linda

From the information you have provided I don't see how you have much choice but to follow you plan and hope for the best. I would use straw rather than shredded leaves simply because the leaves will mat down when wet and lead to fungus problems developing.

If there is any way possible then as Linda suggested, pot them up and keep them indoors where you can easily get to them and care for them after your surgery. They will need good light and careful watering.

Another possibility given your circumstances would be to return them to the seller for credit to use later.

Dave

When I ordered strawberries for a new patch last year, I specified the date I wanted them...April 13th. I cannot imagine getting strawberries so early in this area.

Yes, put them in the fridge.