How many teenagers are there out there who have an ostomy. Tell me your experiences I would love to hear them! Thinking of getting one for myself.

Hi!

You may want to go to the Unitied Ostomy Association discussion board they have a Teen Network discussion group.

http://www.uoaa.org/forum/index.php

I'm not a teenager (I my ostomy at 32 and am 35 now) but I hope this link helps!

Erica

Hello!
I am 16 and have a temporary ileostomy. Quite honestly, it's the best thing that has ever happened to me. I had UC for three years, and when all treatments failed and my life had become something far less than quality, I decided to go for it. However, it is deffinetly not something I would suggest until all hope of treatment is lost. It is by no means an easy way out, but I imagine that if you're considering getting one you've already been through a lot and could probably handle it just fine. All of my issues so far (I've only had the ileostomy for a little over a month) have been with weight loss and dehydration. My body has found it difficult to adjust to the changes, but at this point things seem to be turning around and I feel wonderful. The difference is not solely in health, but mentally it is an amazing adventure and has completely changed my outlook on life. It has been trying on many levels, but it has made me stronger than ever before and I wouldn't trade it for the world. From my experiences I can say that there is no better feeling than throwing that disease right off your shoulders! I’m willing to share whatever you’d like to know.
Good Luck and Best Wishes!
Joleen

You can also try
www.ccfa.org
there is a tab on the left for teens. You are in no way alone!

also
www.ostomates.org
this site was put together by Shaz, she has been an ostomate for a long time and the site is invaluable

I don't have one now but I did from ages 16 to 19 so if you need any teenager experiences PM me.

I am 19 years old and have had an ostomy. i have since had it reversed. I was first diagnosed with UC in march of 2007, but by june, i couldnt even leave the house wihtout going to the bathroom. so in september, i had the j-pouch surgery and had an ostomy till the 2nd of this month. hopefully the surgeries are over for me now. it stinks that we all have to go through this trial, and for some at such a young age. but overall, it does make us stronger.

I'm 12 years old and I have an ileostomy.
It's one of the hardest things I've ever done and one of the best things that's ever happened. I've had so many problems but I would never go back to having UC again.

Ostogirl -

Great name and welcome to the site.

You are very clearly wise beyond your years. Good for you!

Lisa