5 Years ago today was my takedown surgery! I can't believe it has been that long already. For those of you contemplating surgery - I say go for it. You'll never know if you don't. My first year was a little ruff and have had a few bumps in the road, but all in all I love my pouch! My occassional butt-burn is normally self inflicted by eating something that I know I should not be, so I just put up with the consequences.
This site has been wonderful the last 5 years and thanks to everyone who has ever replied and helped me.

Thanks for words of encouragement - always nice to hear success stories when you're at the beginning of the journey

I just celebrated my 5th anniversary as well last Friday...the 13th! I have hit a few bumps down the road as well, but I could have never survived without the j-pouch surgery. I had the bag for 4 months and that was kinda brutal for me, but since the day after take-down I have been thanking God every day! Even though I'm obviously not perfect, I have never ever, not once regretted getting the surgery!