Just a little update to let you guys know that Paul has been doing amazingly well! We went away for 2 nights last week to a hotel with an indoor pool. He was swimming, going down the water slide with the kids, and counting his blessings that he went to a permanent ileostomy!(JillM- the closed pouches were great. Thanks for the tip!)
The best part is: Today he had another follow-up appointment since his Jan. 4th surgery, and THEY TOLD HIM THEY DON'T NEED TO SEE HIM FOR A YEAR! We were in complete shock and so excited when they told us that! He just said the other day he knows this was the right thing to do. He was down to 117 lbs. and is up to 135 already! He looks awesome!!!
We love his surgeon and ET nurse, but it'll be fine to see them in 2008 instead!! (Unless something comes up. Which it won't!) Whoo-hooo!
It's funny, though. Paul said in a way he'll miss them a little- you develop a relationship with these people who have seen you at your worst and had an integral part in getting you better!
And, yes, through all of this whole long saga with his UC, meds, colectomy, J pouch, takedown, and his permanent ileostomy surgery, I was able to stay strong. But when they told us the good news that he was good to go for a year, I looked at the Dr. and started bawling! Way to go, Betsy! Happy tears, and some serious pent-up emotion...
Thanks, guys. 'Just wanted to let you all know. This forum is the best!
Betsy

This is WONDERFUL!

I am so happy for you and Paul

Betsy that is brilliant news! I'm so glad that things have finally turned around for him! It's about time!

Take care both of you.

Shell

Betsy and Paul;
Congratulations from the bottom of my heart!! Sounds like you all had a great little getaway with the kids. It's tough saying goodbye to someone like Dr Vignati and Ann, isn't it? They are a great bunch in that office! I'm so glad you are doing so well, another poster child!!?? Keep smiling, it makes them wonder what you've been up to! Keep in touch.
Michele

This is just superb news, Betsy! Congratulations to you and Paul for hanging tough through such a difficult time.

You know life is good when it includes water slides! *grin*

Rae

Betsy I'm so glad your trip was so great! Now you can plan a longer trip and feel confident that Paul can do anything he wants! Great news on the dr too...I don't blame you for crying - at least this time it was tears of relief

I know what Paul means about the relationship with the medical professionals. I see my ET nurses once a year, but don't have to see my surgeon unless there is a problem. I send her a thank you note each year on the anniversary of my pouch removal (4 years coming up in April) and sent her a birth announcement when my son was born.

I don't know if she cares that I do it (though she sent me a nice note back after the birth announcement), but I want her to know how great the outcome can be - especially if she has patients considering a similar course of action.

you can also try stoma caps and pediatric bags
for bathing and swimming
holly

That's wonderful. It's wonderful to know officially that the crisis is over. And I'm sure the kids are thrilled that they have their dad back (along with a fun weekend