Well, it has been 25 years with a j-pouch and 23 without. More than half my life. And, for those wondering, I wouldn't go back. Not even close.

The 25 have not been perfect but the bumps are minor compared to life with colitis. I think we expect 'back to normal' after the surgery. However, I think we should compare to our colitis baseline, quite frankly, because 'normal' is pretty unrealistic.

In terms of stats:

About 6 to 8 bms a day

Pouchitis about 1x year (usually ride it out or go on flagyl for a few days)

No blockages but 1 revision to excise a band of scar tissue

Have had significant joint issues as a result of the UC and/or Prednisone

Congrats on you fab anniversary...so what did your pouch get you? A bouquet of floral TP? (sorry, it was just too tempting!)...may you have many, many more healthy, happy pouchitis-free years with you pouch..
Sharon

Congrats, as it happens my 25th anniversary with a pouch was March of this year! And I'm with you...wouldn't have done it any other way.

Congrats on your silver anniversary and hope you make gold and platinum also.

Rockwall63,

Congratulations on your silver anniversary.

I'd like to ask you about your revision for scar tissue. I might be having this come up in the near future.

Could you tell me what it was like?

Was it outpatient or a few days in the hospital?

How long was the recovery time?

Did they have to put you under or a lite one similar to having a colonoscopy?

Thank you for your encouraging post.

Absolutely amazing -- congratulations!!! Hope you continue with good health.

Gin

WOW 25 years! Awsome! My sister has had her j pouch for 20 years and going strong. It gives me hope for my young pouch!