Hello everyone. On August 30, 2007, I had my first of three surgeries to creat a j pouch. I've been really depressed and finding hard to adjust to my ileostomy. I'm also worried about whether the j pouch will work once I have that surgery. I had so many complications from the first surgery - blood clots, cellulitis. I was quite malnourished from ulcerative colitis by the time that I had that surgery. Left the hospital after 17 days weighing 98 lbs. I've gained back 20 pounds - to my normal weight. Just feeling scared and blue. Any insight would be so appreciated.

Mack

Mack where are you about in Pa... I live near the poconos and if you need someone to talk to I can lend a ear. If you look below my name here you see I have gone through everything and loving life ... Let me know and if you want I will send you my number in a PM

Hi Mack,

It's only natural to be scared and apprehensive, but by the time you have your next surgery you will be a lot stronger than when you had your first. You will be going into surgery in much better condition this time. There really is no reason why you should have any more complications.

Having an ostomy is a real challenge at first but by the time you have got used to it you will be heading for your next surgery and then takedown. Try to concentrate on getting stronger for your next surgery and you will be through all of this before you know it.

If you really are struggling with depression (which is quite common considering what we go through) then I would see your doctor about getting on some antidepressants to help you over this next obsticle.

We are all here to help in any way we can so come here to vent or for advice, or just a shoulder to cry on.

I hope you feel better soon.

Take care

Shell

You are not depressed.Bummed out but it's temporary.
I hated my ostomy for 6 months. I cried when I looked at it. I never called myself depressed.
This will pass.
i have had a successful j pouch for 20 years and never had pouchitis. I go 2-3 times/day if I don't dwell on me!
Jason will be of great help. He has great ears!

If things are going as they should at this time, I'm guessing things will go great after your takedown.

As Shell said, you could talk to your doctor about AD to get you over this hump but keep in mind that the ADs probably won't work immediately.... they take time.

The side effects are often worse than anticipated.

I'm having some problems with things other than my J-Pouch and the doctor has tried a few different ADs and they all have such bad side effects... basically feel like I'm in a fog and don't care about anything.

Just one week ago I went off the AD and I feel so much better. I'm going to workout (I taught aerobic dance and body toning for 22 years and I know the benefits of exercising decreasing depression).

Are you able to do any exercise? Or get outside for a walk.

Let me know if I can help. Send me a PM and I can give you my phone number if you want. We are all here to help. A couple of people from this site (from far away) have called me and it really helps.