Hi guys,
Been quite awhile since I was last here and I have been reading many posts. Not much has changed I see and I am truly grateful that this resource is available. Just wanted to write this post so that the folks that are having a hard time can see that things do get better over time. I had my colectomy in Aug of 2011 and my takedown in Nov 2011. During the time in between (the colectomy and takedown), I had three major complications that really tested me. I live a long way from Stanford, where I had my surgeries, and serious complications such as I had, required a lot of travel. I won't go into detail about the complications but they were severe and severely traumatic. So, the point I am making is that when you're in that hell, it seems that you'll never see the light of day again. This site really helped me get through that and I am so grateful that it is here. Coming up on four years, I can say that I am finally in a place where I feel great. I have about six BM's a day and can pretty much eat what I want and I have remained at a steady weight. I have not had a single episode of pouchitis or any other complications since takedown (never thought that would be the case) and I honestly feel like my old self. I did, however, get another autoimmune disease (this seems to be the norm) called Polymyositis and I am currently seeing a naturopath for that. It has been challenging, but nothing like UC. I also discovered that I was "off the charts" poisoned with mercury and lead (wondering how long and if it added to my getting UC) and I have purchased an infrared sauna to rid myself of these heavy metals. So, life is not all smooth sailing. But, I am back to doing all of the things I enjoy (just have really weak legs) and accepting the way it is. One of the keys, I believe, has been my diet. I made that as healthy as possible avoiding gluten, sugar, alcohol, tobacco and anything processed. I really believe this is the key to recovery. A few years ago I would have never expected to tell you all this and I am very blessed. So, if you are struggling, know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel (no, not a train) and your miraculous body will adjust. Nature is perfect that way. Try to think positive and feed your mind and body the best foods you can find. Yoga has been a lifesaver for me and helped me get rid of all western meds. I know this is not a place to advertise but I would like to plug the book I wrote. Hopefully nobody has a problem with this because I wrote it for all of you. What I want in return is to simply pass along a message of hope and share my experience. I think we could use all the help we can get. Blessings to my J-Pouch family. I will always be one of you guys and I am proud to say that. Hang in there, it will get better!
