I just wanted to say to anyone who is thinking about going for the two step surgery, go for it!

I had an emergency colectomy in May 2007 and I was devastated when I woke up with the ostomy bag. Honestly though, I have never felt better!! Living with the bag is so easy and nothing like I imagined. I am only 22 years old and I was single when I had the surgery so obviously I was worried about dating. However a few months after the surgery I met a great guy and he was totally fine with the ostomy bag.

I am going for the J-pouch surgery in a few months but even if for some reason it doesn't work out, I could definitely live with an ostomy. It is nothing to be scared of, it is soooo much better than spending half your life in the bathroom!!

Best of luck to anyone planning on the surgery

That's exzactly what I felt. Althought I had just turned 30 when I went in for my 1st of 2 surguries. The Ostomy was wonderful.... I had very little issues with it. And the little issues were really more of a learning curb than ostomy issues... as in user error. ME!!

I am lucky to be doing well with the J-pouch, but having the ostomy for three months made me realize that if I ever had to go back, I could and all would be ok.

I really apprecaite having that experince. It has given me some piece of mind for my future and whatever may happen.

Best to you in your upcoming surgery.

Nicole

Great to hear men are more undertstanding about that no offense but I know many (2)men who had one and there wife and GF left them just because of it. My wife didn't leave me but was discusted by it. She is old fashion and doesnt beleive in devorce so guess i'm lucky in a way.

Anyhow thats great to hear you found a good man pass on to woman to be more hearted like us men lol just teasing!

I also found welcome relief with my ostomy. I kept it for an extra 2 months so that I could go on vacation and enjoy my summer. My husband and family were wonderful and very understanding. Neither my husband, daughters or sons found it disgusting. In fact, after a while, they didn't even think about it. I too, feel that if something happens to my pouch, I could live a very good life with an ostomy.

Good Luck with your upcoming surgery,

janna

So many people have issues with the ostomy, it is SO nice to see someone posting something so positive at such an early stage in the game.

I have a perm ileo after failed j-pouch and life couldn't be better. Don't think much about it, just live my life. My 2 year old will "help" me put the clip back on my bag! Wouldn't have him or the baby on the way without the ostomy so can't say a bad thing about it.

Good luck with your next steps! Now you know you have the freedom to find the life you want and if an ostomy is needed down the road, it won't slow you down.