| Your name: | BETTY MEYERS |
| E-mail address: | BMHM1937@HOTMAIL.COM |
| Country: | UNITED STATES |
| Comment or story: | I HAVE AN OSTONY AND WOULD LIKE VERY MUCH TO HEAR FROM OTHER ONES WHO HAVE ONE, JUST TO BE FRIENDS AND TRADE STORIES ABOUT OUR OSTOMIES. |
| Your name: | Nick Trubov |
| E-mail address: | ntrubov@swbell.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I've been living happily with my new asshole now for about three years. It's actually much more convenient than it USED to be. Sure we ALL have problems of one sort or another with EVERYTHING in our lives.
Who among you think CHILDREN are less of a problem? That's what I thought. Lemme know if there is anything I can do to help you with YOUR new "asshole". By the way, I'm a retired medical professional which means I have all SORTS of great misinformation to share with you. NT |
| Your name: | Jarett |
| E-mail address: | jarett@prodigy.net |
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| Your name: | Emily |
| E-mail address: | emily@terra.com.br |
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| Your name: | Emily |
| E-mail address: | emily.lantz@sckans.edu |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I was born with many medical issues and had a colostomy put on when i was just a baby! they later reversed it and i had a stint put into my belly button to do enemas through every night. this procedure failed so in 2007 i had a colostomy put back on and it will never be able to be reversed. I am 18 years old and a freshman in college. I am proud to say that i am on a basketball scholarship. Just want to give hope to those who think it cant be done. |
| Your name: | BETTY BOOKWORM |
| E-mail address: | bmhm1937@hotmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | i HAD MY COLOSTOMY DONE 3 YEARS IN SEPT. i HAVE A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH SO MUCH DRAINING, AND IT IS ALSO VERY LOOSE MOST OF THE TIME. i TAKE IMODIUM, BUT IT DOES NOT HELP ALL THAT MUCH.
i ALSO FIND THAT MY STOMA SEEMS TO PROTUDE OUT KIND OF FAR. IS THIS NORMAL? DOES ANY ONE HAVE THIS PROBLEM? i ALSO HAVE HAD A HERNIA REMOVED AND NOW THERE SEEMS TO BE ANOTHER ONE COMING. I WAS NOT ABLE TO KEEP A MESH IN WITH THE FIRST HERNIA SURGERY. tHE BAGS BLOAT UP A LOT ALSO. WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM OTHER OSTOMATES. I AM 74 |
| Your name: | SambaPlayer |
| E-mail address: | gjwsticks@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I recently had a permanent colostomy (just over a week ago). At this point I'm trying to get used to the bag and the differences in my body due to this surgery. I'm having urges and sensations to have bowel movements in the normal way. In other words, I feel the urges down low near my rectum. Is this normal after a colostomy? I also have a tumor in the colorectal area that has yet to be removed, so maybe that's the cause of these urges. Any ideas??? Could this be due to peristaltic reaction as my colon fills with stool? |
| Your name: | Kristy |
| E-mail address: | tarbklw@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had emergency surgery in April 2008, 13 hours total because of severe diverticulitis infection. In July of 2010 went back in for hysterectomy and colostomy reversal. Very sad upon waking to find out the scar tissue was extensive and they were unable to do the reversal. I've read some of your stories and actually feel pretty blessed. The nurses fit me properly for my bag so no leakage issues for the most part. I have learned to have a sense of humor regarding the noise factor. But my self esteem has taken a huge blow. While I hide it well, I feel pretty disgusting. Anyone else having this feeling? Thanks |
| Your name: | harry mills |
| E-mail address: | HARRY.MILLS@VERIZON.NET |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | SEVERAL YRS AGO I HAD DIVERTIC &HAD TO DEAL WITH A POUCH TILL I GOT RE-CONNECTED I DEVISED A MODIFICATION TO PROVIDE COMPLETE !!!CONTROL OF THE GAS!!!!! I NEER TO LOCATE SOMEONE TO TAKE THIS BALL &RUN WITH IT !WILL REVEAL TO LEGIT MFGR,NOT THE BIG BAG BOYS (it willdamage their bottom line) THIS IS FOR REAL !! |
| Your name: | michael |
| E-mail address: | murteaga38@yahoo.com |
| Country: | Usa |
| Comment or story: | hello my name is michael and i too had an emergency colostomy. It was in march on spring break when i got sick, my colon had a hole in it then my small intestine went in that hole and attached it self to it as well as my appendex, they had to cut my colon and take out my appendix. well when i woke up from surgery it hit me hard i had a bag on my stomach. i even got depressed a litlle bit but as time went by i got use to it, it didnt bother me one bit. i was able to live my life like i usually do, like tubing down the river swiming in lakes. Its bee 8 months now and i just got my reversal done. ive been out of the hospital 3 weeks now and evrything is back to normal even my stool. Iam still a little sore but not much had diaherra for the first few days but it went back to normal. now the only thing i hate about going back to normal is the restrooms in some of these place are nasty, with a bag i didnt have to worry about that. but still happy with my reversal. if you have any questions about what i went through feel free to email me ask. |
| Your name: | michael rothe |
| E-mail address: | mikegt99@hotmail.com |
| Country: | us |
| Comment or story: | hi everyone,,my name is mike i am a 48 year old guy,,here is my story,,1and1/2 years ago i went in for sugery for frequent diverticulitis attacks,,1st time ever having surgery,,what a mistake that was,,anyways after the surgery i was miserable,,pain and going to the bathroom every hour for days and days,,after like 10 days they sent me home against my advice,,i was still in a lot of pain and having the runs every hour,,i didnt want to eat,,but they sent me home anyway,,16 hours later i was having emergency surgery for a perforated bowel,,i dont think they should have sent me home, woke up in intensive care with a colostomy bag,,i wanted to die,which almost happened anyways,,i spent 9 days there,then i was sent to a regular room for another 2 weeks,,i will tell you that i was so depressed,i could not imagine life with a colostomy bag,,i got over it after a couple of months,,i also knew that in like 4 months it was going to be reversed,,i feel for all you people out there that are going through this,,it sucks,,but i kept saying that it could be worse,,as i got better and stronger the bag became routine for me,,i even went on vacation to lake goerge with it,life got a little bit better day by day,maybe it was a little easier for me being that im a nurse,,but still a horrible experience,,,my reversal is all done now but i will talk more about that another time as im getting tired of typing,,if anyone would like to talk to me and ask any questions,,im hear,,thank you and good luck to you all,,mike |
| Your name: | Lameck Odero |
| E-mail address: | lameckcab@yahoo.com |
| Country: | Kenya |
| Comment or story: | My name is Lameck Odero, a post graduate in Great Lakes University of Kenya. I have been operated four times.The first one was when I was having abstraction which lead to removal of colostomy. I was given 6weeks so that they can do reversal. However during reversal there were a lot of complications tat came up with another two operations but all couldn't still work. Now its my 8th month with colostomy. However, I really, need support. Am not comfortable with my fellow students because of the smell that comes from colostomy bag or uncontrollable blowing that. Second, how can I live without buying colostomy bags. They need a lot of money and I still have 6months to go for reversal. Help please |
| Your name: | Thomas |
| E-mail address: | Thomas_du@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hi,
I don't know where to ask about anal sex? I recently had a colostomy reversal due to fisting. How long will I have to wait before I may have anal intercourse again with my partner? I really need your help! Thank you very much. Sincerely, Thomas |
| Your name: | alison l barney |
| E-mail address: | alisonbarney@ymail.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | 2yrs 10 mths ago i had a colostomy long term, but i still have problems with my wound..i would like penpals
from america or canada male or female..i am 51yrs old youthful looks . so we can share problems, |
| Your name: | alison l barney |
| E-mail address: | alisonbarney@ymail.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | i am looking for a pen friend from the u.s.a palm sprngs.
new york any where. male or female who has a colostomy as well. i am 51 yrs of age youthfulnes..my story goes over 2 yrs 10mths ago since my operation ive had nothing but problems with my wound it is not heeled and now it has fluid around it.. |
| Your name: | alison l barney |
| E-mail address: | alisonbarney@ymail.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | i am looking for a pen friend from the u.s.a palm sprngs.
new york any where. male or female who has a colostomy as well. i am 51 yrs of age youthfulnes..my story goes over 2 yrs 10mths ago since my operation ive had nothing but problems with my wound it is not heeled and now it has fluid around it.. |
| Your name: | alison l barney |
| E-mail address: | alisonbarney@ymail.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | i am looking for a pen friend from the u.s.a palm sprngs.
new york any where. male or female who has a colostomy as well. i am 51 yrs of age youthfulnes..my story goes over 2 yrs 20mths ago since my operation ive had nothing but problems with my wound it is not heeled and now it has fluid around it.. |
| Your name: | Scott Green |
| E-mail address: | qenzore11@hotmail.com |
| Country: | Australia |
| Comment or story: | It is only because of my optimistic inner self that I am still happy and health at 38 with a colostomy from the very start. I dont need any religious beliefs to keep on fighting on while wishing for world piece. Many of the ostomate stories were part-timers and I will never know the "usual" way, never had to change at half-time, I have many friends, all the best ones knew a long time ago, and like me, just accept every living thing on Earth as perfect in thier own seperate ways. |
| Your name: | Maire |
| E-mail address: | magnatron21@gmail.com |
| Country: | ireland |
| Comment or story: | im writing about my dad. 7 years ago he was diagnosed with colon cancer, he had a large amount of his colon removed and recieved a ileostomy bag in return after about 6months it was reversed and he made a full recover we were overjoyed. a year later he was diagnosed with cancer of the adrenal gland which is extremly rare we didnt know what to expect after numerous bouts of chemotherapy we were informed the only answer was surgery he had the tumour along with a kidney removed and had a few days in intensive care, after about 6/7 months he once again was back to himself. because of his history just like many of you he has to have regular colonoscopy examines,so 2 weeks before my brothers wedding he decided to get it out of the way, he was told his specialist would be doing it because of his history, after he came back from the exam my mam was waiting my dad was distressed and his stomach was swollen and he was finding it hard to breath. after my mam raised it to the attention of the nurse she called the dr.it wasnt performed by the specialist but a JR. DR. must to my mothers horror,he said it just trapped air, try pass wind-as they normally say-he couldnt which made him more frustrated. the dr. was called again as my dads heart rate sped up and blood pressure dropped. his stomach kept swelling. they thought an ultrasound would help find out what was going on,so they took my dad to do it. after 45mins he returned drifting in and out of consciousness.the ultrasound machine was apparently not working and emergency surgery to have a look was needed.after he returned to I.C.U almost 20hrs after going in for the colonoscopy we were informed they had perforated his colon with the camera(probably due to scar tissue)weeks passed as he was on a life support and dialysis machine along with a now new colonostomy bag. he missed my brothers wedding and remained in I.C.U for 2months. he had to be re-taught how to use all his muscles. he re-learned how to eat, walk. its been a long road,its a year and a half later and i would love to say he is back to himself again but he's not. he is 69years of age and wont change his bag himself, wont do anything for himself pretty much.he hardly leaves the house except once a week for mass and occasionally other occasions.he will only except eat and walk , i dont know why...he's obviously depressed and with talks of reversal on the cards we dont know what to do. he wants it done, but keeps cancelling the operation. he's cancelled twice now.any ideas of what i can do to boost his energy?boost his confidence?let him have a life again?id really appreciate it(SORRY FOR THE LONG STORY)xx |
| Your name: | Rolonda |
| E-mail address: | iamrolonda@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I was diagnosed with colon cancer on my 30th birthday April 2008. Yeah Happy Birthday! I had my entire colon, appendix,and partial rectum removed all because of this illness.I had to have an emergency blood transfusion, because they diagnosed me as severe anemia. I was suppose to have a temporary colostomy bag for 2 months, but because of the bleeding, pain, infections, etc. I had to keep the bag for about 7 months. The next year, I had a reconnect procedure done. All the problems I had never went away (uncontrol bowels, bleeding, pain, vomiting, etc.) I have tried all recommended medications, experimental medications, good eating habits, etc. So, after losing my job because of me being under the doctor's care, and not being able to return to work when they wanted me to, I lost my insurance. So now, I can't afford good medical attention. It is now July 2010, and I am finally able to see a doctor, and I am schedule for a permanent colostomy bag. It has been a long road. I am pulling for strength and guidance to continue to fight this frustrating battle, because my three little ones are counting on me to be momma again. They suffer, because they hate to see me hurt, sick, sad, and/or depress. |
| Your name: | Rose |
| E-mail address: | rosej420@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My mother had to have surgery in November and was given a "temp" colostomy. However, the stoma retracted and she wound up becoming septic and needed to have it revised. The doctors really do not want to reverse it now. She has a very hard time with it and outside of emptying it, I basically do all of the care for it.
However, we have been having some problems with it in the last 1-2 months. She developed two ulcers above her stoma and they are not really sure why. In addition, she has been having very high output which is very loose, having to empty it at least 6 times a day. Her surgeon says don't eat for 3 days. Great advice huh... And just last week, she mentioned to me that her medications are coming out whole in her bag. Has anyone had any of these issues? Needless to say it has been a long process with this whole thing and looking for some guidance. Thanks in advance |
| Your name: | Rose |
| E-mail address: | rosej4@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My mother had to have surgery in November and was given a "temp" colostomy. However, the stoma retracted and she wound up becoming septic and needed to have it revised. The doctors really do not want to reverse it now. She has a very hard time with it and outside of emptying it, I bascially do all of the care for it.
However, we have been having some problems with it in the last 1-2 months. She developed two ulcers above her stoma and they are not really sure why. In addition, she has been having VERY high output which is very loose, having to empty it at least 6 times a day. Her surgeon says dont eat for 3 days.Great advice huh... And just last week, she mentioned to me that her medications are coming out whole in her bag. Has anyone had any of these issues? Needless to say it has been a long process with this whole thing and looking for some guidance. Thanks in advance |
| Your name: | michelle |
| E-mail address: | shellypooh_23@hotmail.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I am thirty one...golly. :) Hard to believe. I was wanting to find someone that could relate...No one seems to. lol ...I have had 7 abdominal surgeries...one of which was my csection...colostomy, reversed, illeostomy, reversed and I cant remember how much colon removed...had that done twice..well, I am tired of taking imodium done that for yrs on top of yrs and it doesnt help..took 15 pills a day still diarrhea and Im taking bentyl what a joke still have problems, I have solitary ulcer syndrome have went to therapy doesnt help bleeding ulcer again and I have to have a permanent colostomy done I will find out my surgery date on the 29th. I am lookin forward for it:) I am tired of accidents and running to the bathroom. |
| Your name: | Marlene |
| E-mail address: | jjwc@juno.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My colostomy was received 22 Dec 2009..What a Xmas
present !!! All kinds of problems with leakage no matter what technique was used..Sometimes had to change the pouch in minutes. Then after the operation to install a permanent stoma , like magic all the problems went down the drain. Cleaning up is easier and the pouch stays in place for over five days... Looking for a Ostomy Chapter in the area of College Park Maryland. |
| Your name: | Tammy Fields |
| E-mail address: | groomer4748@aol.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I am a 52 year old woman who went for a colonoscopy @ 50 and was found to have 3rd stage colorectal cancer after havinga total hysterectomy and a ileostomy for 2 years. I am not able to have the reversal because of an opening that can not be closed.I am going to have a permanent colostomy. My question is I want to be able to irrigate and have heard that some stoma placements don't fully allow the colon to empty. any thoughts on best placement for emptying and for comfort with clothing? |
| Your name: | Vivian Castillano |
| E-mail address: | vicas1063@yahoo.com |
| Country: | philippines |
| Comment or story: | I have this colostomy since year 2002 and because of this my husband left me. its been up and down with this thing but i have to go on and live with this. i need someone to talk to and compare notes or just be there to listen. |
| Your name: | nixa lopez |
| E-mail address: | nixa@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I had rectal cancer in 2006. and was told that I have to wear a bag for the rest of my life..It was hard to deal with this change. but I am doing .if anyone will like to email it will be nice
. |
| Your name: | betty horsley |
| E-mail address: | pookw@comcast.net |
| Country: | america |
| Comment or story: | I WANT TO FIND SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS ME I HAVE A COLOSTOMY
AND LOOKING FOR A FRIEND TO SHARE WITH IM 58 AND I WAS SEPTIC INSIDE AND ALMOST LOST MY LIFE ENDED UP WITH A BAG. AND HAD 2 STROKES AND 1 SEIZURE. WOULD LIKE TO SHARE BETTY |
| Your name: | Sue Tappin |
| E-mail address: | tacres@nbnet.nb.ca |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | After 5 agonizing days my bowel ruptured and I become the proud new owner of a colostomy on Feb 12 2010. Didn't like it much but the alternative sucked. So being a farmer and already being used to dealing with all manner of manure.... I got on with living. 3 months later I'm pretty much back to normal.... well except for the colostomy thing. But it is only a 800 Lb. gorilla in the room if you let it be. I chose not to let it. Love to hear from you all |
| Your name: | Chad |
| E-mail address: | chadbryden@comcast.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had surgery in August 2008, due a doctor perforating the side of my colon during a standard colonoscopy. Two days later was dying, rushed to the hospital and there was we’re it all happened - total colon was removed. Waking up 3 days later with a bag for about 8 months. Had the reversal done in early 2010. Still having a lot of itchy times, 15-20 bowel movements a day, the rest of my body seems to be fatigued all the time (extensive leg, hip and back pain), and very restless nights. I'm just not sure if all this is common? Any recommendations are appreciated. |
| Your name: | Ken F |
| E-mail address: | whatsnu@bellsouth.net |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | i tried to post to this group to share my story nothing happened. e-mail me if you have questions. |
| Your name: | Ken F |
| E-mail address: | whatsnu@bellsouth.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Good news! After emergency surgery, a colostomy, a HUGE incision wound, I have recently gone back for reversal surgery, am put back together, (no more colostomy!) and am "going" the old fashioned way!
I have a few tips and tidbits to share, and will make more posts ASAP. If anyone wants to e-mail with questions, I'm at whatsnu@bellsouth.net. Ken |
| Your name: | Diana |
| E-mail address: | dntstimson@att.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I was having surgery to remove my ovarian cyst that was absessed. My surgeon found an infection and my colon was infused into my ovary. He did emergency surgery and removed a foot of my colon and I now have a colostomy. At first it was hard to deal with. Trying to find that right combination of appliances so that there are no leaks is not fun. I think we finally found the one that works for me. My colostomy is reversable so I am told. I can't wait until I can have the surgery and get back to normal. |
| Your name: | Jo-Anne |
| E-mail address: | jojodelafosse@bell.net |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | Hi Colostomy mates,
Hope you are all coping with your bags. I have had a colostomy due to diverticulitis and a tumor. I also had a reversal Feeling better now. So if any of you need any type of information, please contact me and it will be my pleasure to help you out. I don't say I have all the answers, but I nost certainly have alot.I will give you the most info that I can to help you along. Be well and God bless, Jojo xoxo |
| Your name: | THEO |
| E-mail address: | NALEPATHEO@YAHOO.COM |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | IN NOV. MY COLON RUPTURED DUE TO DIVERTICLITIS. I WOKE UP WITH A COLOSMY BAGS. IT WAS THE WORST THING THAT COULD EVER HAVE HAPPEN TO ME. I SURE DON'T KNOW HOW ANYONE CAN HANDLE THIS . THE SMELL IS AWFUL, CLOTHES DON'T FIT THEY CUT BAG IN HALF & MAKE IT BULDGE. IT THEN COME ON HOOKED. LETS ALSO TALK ABOUT SLEEPING I NOW SLEEP IN A RECLINER SO THAT I CAN'T ROLL OVER AND POP THE BAG IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT & THEN HAVE TO CHANGE ALL THE BEDDING. I NO LONGER SOCIALIZE BECAUSE I SMELL SO BAD. I WORK AT A BAR SO I DON'T HAVE TO BE NEXT TO PEOPLE. HAVE TRYED DIFFERENT THING PEOPLE HAVE TOLD ME THEY DON'T WORK. I AM WEARING MATERNITY PANTS BUT THEY DON'T STAY UP. I'M DUE FOR REVERSAL IN JULY WHICH CAN'T COME SOON ENOUGH MY DEPRESSION IS SO BAD. I'VE AREADY TOLD MY FAMILY & FRIENDS THAT IF I HAVE TO KEEP BAG REST OF LIFE MY LIFE WILL BE VERY SHORT CAUSE I WILL NOT LIVE WITH THIS. IF ANYONE CAN HELP ME GET THROUGH TIL JULY I WOULD LIKE THAT. I SAID I WOULD HANG ON TIL REVERSAL THANK YOU |
| Your name: | Rose |
| E-mail address: | rosie@npgcable.com |
| Country: | united states |
| Comment or story: | I am on my third hernia, and am going to habe another colonostomy on the left side of my stomach on april 1st. Has anybody else had to go through this? Thank you. Rose |
| Your name: | Henry |
| E-mail address: | henryeshkibok@hotmail.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | sept 1993 is when i had my colostomy.first of all get rid of the karaya paste its useless.use stoma paste by convatec.squeese out a bead of stoma paste about a quarter inch thick all around the hole where the stoma will stick through the flange.skin has to be 100 percent clean,to make it long lasting use Torbot bonding cement or spray on Medical Adhesive by hollister stock #7730.which ever one you use spray on or cement BOTH sides,to make it last even longer put on several coats of either adhesive/cement.let it air dry for a minute or two no longer,it must be tacky when you put it all together.make sure center of stoma is center of precut hole on flange,then gently put flange onto belly of patient,hold firmily for a few minutes.you would have already precut 4 pieces of equal length of tape,place tape on all 4 sides of flange/belly,your joining belly and flange together with the tape.Bruce Medical has all the supplies and answers you require.if someone developes red weeping/denuded skin use Micro-Guard by SWEEN its a antifungal cream or Sensi-Care protecive barrier 3 by Convatec.good luck,may GOD bless you,and by all means,please keep me informed.henry
|
| Your name: | Donnie |
| E-mail address: | volfan54@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | If someone could tell me. I have a colostomy and where my rectum was, an odor from the mucus is bothering me is there any product creme or spray that will help the odor. Had 3300/lbs of steel dropped from forklift on top of me in 1994. |
| Your name: | Henry |
| E-mail address: | henryeshkibok@hotmail.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | sept 1993 is when i had my colostomy.first of all get rid of the karaya paste its useless.use stoma paste by convatec.squeese out a bead of stoma paste about a quarter inch thick all around the hole where the stoma will stick through the flange.skin has to be 100 percent clean,to make it long lasting use TORBOT bonding cement or spray on MEDICAL ADHESIVE by hollister stock #7730.which ever one you use spray on or cement BOTH sides,to make it last even longer put on several coats of either adhesive/cement.let it air dry for a minute or two no longer,it must be tacky when you put it all together.make sure center of stoma is center of precut hole on flange,then gently put flange onto belly of patient,hold firmily for a few minutes.you would have already precut 4 pieces of equal length of tape,place tape on all 4 sides of flange/belly,your joining belly and flange together with the tape.BRUCE MEDICAL has all the supplies and answers you require.if someone developes red weeping/denuded skin use MICRO-GUARD by SWEEN its a antifungal cream or SENSI-CARE protecive barrier 3 by CONVATEC.good luck,may GOD bless you,and by all means,please keep me informed.henry
|
| Your name: | Johnny |
| E-mail address: | warbringer2007@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I have been fighting diverticulitis for the past couple of years and finally had to have emergency surgery performed, to remove the diseased part of my lower intestines. Unfortunately I have had to where the usual colostomy bag. I have been scheduled to go in for the reversal surgery March 2010 and have the bag taken off.
I noticed there were a few people on here who were having trouble locating Colostomy supplies because they live in places where obtaining these supplies are minimal. I should have a good amount of clean and "not" used supplies that I would be more then happy to donate, if you are in desperate need of these items. Just send me an email and I will let you know what I have to send after the first week of March 2010. |
| Your name: | Donna |
| E-mail address: | buffa801@rcn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I've had colosotomy surgery in 2006 and now do irrigation. My concern is i have a buldging side now and it looks terrible, does anyone else have that problem. My doctors just say nothing to worry about. Seems like it might be a hernia. I might make an appointment with my surgeon. |
| Your name: | shannon |
| E-mail address: | shannonkellogg@hotmail.com |
| Country: | US |
| Comment or story: | I just wanted to say that living with a Stoma is not a bad thing. In fact, having Crohn's disease, my ostomy has given me my life back. I wear regular trending clothes, work as an RN, hang out with friends, have a boyfriend who loves me whom I met after I had my bag. Life is what you make of it and there is absolutely no reason to think that having an Ostomy should stop you from doing anything you love. People will love you and accept you for you, not because of what you have or don't have on your belly. |
| Your name: | Franklin |
| E-mail address: | sfranklinrussellii@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I came across this site and need some info concerning purchasing ostomy equipment. If there is anyone who lives in the Atlanta/College area, I will be in that area for about two weeks. I am running out of ostomy supplies and the order I made is delayed. I need to find an ostomy supply store in the Atlanta/College Park area wherein I can restock if need be. Can anyone help me out by supplying name, address and/or telephone number of such a place? You can reach me at sfranklinrussellii@yahoo.com
Thank you, |
| Your name: | Greg Murphy |
| E-mail address: | gmurphy9@woh.rr.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I was diagnosed with colon rectal cancer in 2006. When I woke up I was wearing a bag. i felt like my life was over.No one at the V.A. told me much about carring and maintaining my ostomy. Everything I learned was eather trial and error or a private hospital.I learned that "pink tape" around the wafer helps greatly. now I am dealing with noise and smell.My life isn't over as I once thought it is great and I am blessed i even wrote a top 10 reasons why a bag was better than a rectum |
| Your name: | Hennie Strydom |
| E-mail address: | ncprograms@telkomsa.net |
| Country: | South Africa |
| Comment or story: | 6 Aug 2008 was my worst day as I woke up from surgery in the greatest of pain asif my innards was burning up.
My wife told me that cancerous grouth was removed from the rectum and a permanent colostomy was performed. Nou 22 Des 2009 I still struggle to live with this.After activity for a day or so and the boul emptied it feels asif all is ok,"no stomac pain etc". The constant pain however is to sit,it is hard to explain but the surgeons used the anus skin to sow up the gaping hole where the rectum resided.Now some or most of the nerves have revovered and causes unbearable pain. Please somebody, let me know of your similar experiance as this is a very lonely live. |
| Your name: | Keith |
| E-mail address: | KEITHORTIZ@ROCKETMAIL.COM |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Like so many others i was rushed to hospital to have emerency surgery from Diverticlitis.It was very scarey for me as i have been healthy my whole life. When the nurse came in to check me out was when i first saw my colostomy. With a little help from the drugs and morphine i lost it.I tried to escape twice and actually made it across the parking lot the second time before i was tackeld and found numerous needles jabbed in me to knock me out.Turns out what ever they were giving me messed me up real bad. After things were changed i got my sanity back and accepted what had happened and my new stauma. Having no insurance has turned out to be the worst of it all. Now i need to figure out how to fund the reversal surgery. Does anyone know how much this reversal surgery cost? Need to start selling things to fund it, Please email me and let me know what kind of money i need to raise if you know, Much appreciated,KEITH |
| Your name: | delia |
| E-mail address: | deliaclare@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I am a nurse and want to ask what is the best way to apply the karaya paste and powder to the stoma: do you apply the flange first and then the paste before the bag application, or do you put the paste on then the bag? And what do you do with the powder- is that used with the paste or separately?
And do you use skin prep to the skin under the paper flange to keep it in tact? Do any of you use a liguid antacid around the stoma instead;like Maalox. Take care, Delia |
| Your name: | Michelle |
| E-mail address: | shellshel135@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hi everyone,
My mother recently had surgery for ovarian cancer that spread to the rectum and now has a colostomy bag. She is having the worst time with the cologomy bag sticking and not leaking. She is starting chemo therapy next week and we would really like to get the colostomy bag problems resolved sooner than later. She is having home health nurses come in but they can't seem to get it right either. My mom is a young 70 year old that loves to travel, exercise, garden and be the best mom and wife. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as she is having a constant leakage problems and even woke up this morning with everything all over her. Please help! Thank you! Michele |
| Your name: | Karen |
| E-mail address: | kmyeandle@earthlink.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I have had my colon removed and have had the reversal, but would like some feedback from others who have had the same procedure. It's been 6 months, and I'm still having some diarrhea and am wondering what foods might help and especially what size portions work for people. Sometimes I'm pretty uncomfortable, but would like to talk to others who have had the same done.
Karen |
| Your name: | Karen |
| E-mail address: | kmyeandle@earthlink.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Due to rectal dysplasia, I had to have my colon out in October 2008. They reversed the procedure with a j=pouch in March of 2009. I was to be in the hospital for 3 days and ended up 29 days due to complications not related to the reversal. Now that things are healing up, I just need advice on how long does the dirrahea last and what size should my meals be? All of this from someone who weighed 127 and could really put a dent in a buffet when the opportunity presented itself! They say small meals, but I think I need a visual or accurate serving size so I can get things under control. Even with the extended hospital accommodations, I would definitely do it again. I had a real hard time with the bag leaking, so anything is better than that!!! If anyone has some Ideas, please email me back!!! |
| Your name: | Jenn |
| E-mail address: | scobeez16@hotmail.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | I was reading some of the posts on this site and noticed that many people are worried about the reversal surgery. I had colitis for five years and in July 2009 I had my entire large intestine removed, a j-pouch made and a temporary ileostomy. 8 days ago I had the ileostomy taken down and it has been amazing for me. I keep waiting for things to get worse but even after only 8 days things are great! I have absoluely no leaking, no accidents and no urgency. I feel almost completly back to my normal self and even the nights arent that bad. So far i only normally get up 2-3 times during the night and I know that eventually this too will get better. I can eat anything I want now and not having too worry about emptying my ostomy bag has been so nice. I hope that this makes others feel better about the reversal surgery although I do know that I have had an extremly good outcome and that everyone will be different. |
| Your name: | steve |
| E-mail address: | rive957625@cox.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had a stoma hernia repaired in April of this year. I still have to take laxatives because the mesh made the opening in my stoma smaller. I feel like I have gas pains all the time.Is taking laxatives all the time bad? Whatelse can I do? Also,does anyone know of anything out there that covers the bag so it isn't seen and is covered by Blue/Cross. Thanks Steve |
| Your name: | Chandra |
| E-mail address: | akerschandra@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I went to the hospital 10-20-09 for abdominal pains. I ended up having emergency surgery because my diverticulum had ruptured due to undiagnosed diverticulitis. Now Im stuck with a colostomy bag for the next three months. Its a big transition for me cuz I have never had any serious health conditions or surgeries before and at first I was bitter about it. I am a social person who likes to get out and about with friends and I am a musical performer. Not only that, I work a very public job and I dont want people to know that I have this because it is embarrassing. I know its not permanent but it just sucks in the meantime cuz like I said, I dont want people to know my condition. I cried the first few days but Im over it all now and Im okay with it.(other than the embarrassing sh*t bag that smells and makes noises whenever it wants.) I know it could be worse and I know there are people with colostomys younger than myself and it makes me sad for them. It jus gets me down because my girlfriend and myself are young and shes so beautiful and I feel like a burden to her because for some reason my short term disability didnt go thru with my job so I am unable to bring a household income for the next few months and the holidays are around the corner. She has a 5 year old son that I raise as my own and I feel awful that I cannot help provide for him and all this weight is on my girls shoulders. I jus feel like she resents me sometimes. I know she dont mean to but it shows. I get depressed thinking that she doesnt and or will not find me attractive anymore because of all of my scarring and the filthy mess and smell associated with cleaning my stoma and emptying my bag. I dont know, Im just rambling. I guess getting all the stress off my chest. It sucks but I know its not permanent. Jus sharing my story. |
| Your name: | wayne |
| E-mail address: | waynelb00@yahoo.com |
| Country: | us |
| Comment or story: | I am an RN and have a patient who has a colosomy which leaks and comes off way too often and is a miserable experience for this lady and her daughter who is her caregiver.WE have tried evrything and have had expert advise from ET nurses and docters but nothing works.There is no reason for this since the skin surrounding the stoma is smooth and flat.I have never seen anything like this in all of my years in nursing.There must be a stronger adhesive designed for cases like these.Any advise would be greatly appreciated .wayne atlanta ga. |
| Your name: | Jim Campbell |
| E-mail address: | lajfc99@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had a colostomy 8 months ago and, because of the placement of the ostomy, I now have a "difficult" ostomy. I havehad lots of problems with tearing of skin around the ostomy and subsequent pain and irritation. What was happening was my belt, which fit over the ostomy, was tight enough to hold my pants up, but every time I turned or twisted, that belt pressure was enough to cause more rawness. My solution: buy pants two sizes too big and wear suspenders. Works like a charm. |
| Your name: | Floella |
| E-mail address: | jimfloohio@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | This is not about me it is about my baby sister Kathy.
she had a coloctomy reversal 6 months ago. She has been in misery ever since.She has constant Diahrea 24 -7. If she tries to go somewhere she is misserable. lots of accidents.Also her behind looks like a giant blister or burn. And she is inPain from it. Please if anyone can let me know if they have had anyof this. We would appreciate any info. Thanks Bunches. Floella |
| Your name: | Floella |
| E-mail address: | jimfloohio@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | This is not about me it is about my baby sister Kathy.
she had a coloctomy reversal 6 months ago. She has been in misery ever since.She has constant Diahrea 24 -7. If she tries to go somewhere she is misserable. lots of accidents.Also her behind looks like a giant blister or burn. And she is inPain from it. Please if anyone can let me know if they have had anyof this. We would appreciate any info. Thanks Bunches. Floella |
| Your name: | lucy |
| E-mail address: | flzinyuku@yahoo.co.uk |
| Country: | Zimbabwe |
| Comment or story: | I was diagonised with with rectum cancer hence there was need for an operation. The cancer had spread in the rectum so there was no other option other than removing the rectum hence i ended up with a permanent stoma. Before the operation i had no proper counselling and i was not even aware of the advantages and the disadvages. I live in the remote parts of Zimbabwe were people are mostly poor and have no access to such information. Its been two years now since my operation and i have never seen anyone who has a stoma too. Im now very antsocial because people dont understnd my condition. Since it is very difficult to have access to colostomy bags i end up improvising hence i will not be able to go to work or even meet out with friends. I will be more than happy if anyone can help me to get colostomy bags because life for me is now very complicated. |
| Your name: | kim |
| E-mail address: | kim@bagsfirst.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | my mom had intestinal cancer and was fited with the bag due to it. the problem is that it has been about 4 months since the surgery and she is in unbearable pain nightly.... is this normal? when askign doctors they all say its normal... i dont understand how this can benormal to live your life in constant pain... i would love to ehr some feedback from anyone who also has had this procedure.
thanks concerned daughter |
| Your name: | Susan |
| E-mail address: | susanhalloran@comcast.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had a colostomy last year. I have a spinal cord injury, and nowmy belly is so big I can't find clothes to wear. Does anyone else have this problem, and what do people do about this? |
| Your name: | passion |
| E-mail address: | blaque_passion413@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hello everyone you know I'm almost in tears to read this stories, and it just wouldn't be right if i didn't tell my own and help and encourage whom every wants to talk. When i frist found this site i was looking for a Dr. that can remove my colostomy scar. See when i was 17 years old i was date rape. I got preganant and miscarriage the baby my Dr. was to do a D&c and remove the baby, i was only 4 months at the time so you know he died. Well some how she perforaed my sigmiod colon cause to to wear a colostomy bag for 2 1/2 . when i woke up and they explain what happen i just felt like God was punishing me. I went through alot of the same this you all are talking about but i held on to faith and i made it. Know it was not easy i was only 17 my senior year and i had a 2year old but i made if you all every need to talk or have question i feel like it's my duty to help please! i'm here for you all. |
| Your name: | Marie |
| E-mail address: | cutiegram@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I had rectal cancer and now I have a colostomy. My problem--other than the obvious--is: since my surgery I have gained about 50 lbs. I am 66 years old and have had struggled with my weight most of my adult life, but until the surgery I had relative control over my weight. Now I can't seem to stop eating!! What can I do? Please help me....I hate myself |
| Your name: | Peter Hewson |
| E-mail address: | petter.hewson@htmail.com |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: | I have got a Colostomy I have had it for 18yrs now and the Dr's said ther is a expairimental procidure they would like to offer me where it means I do not hve to have the Colostomy bagt any more but I am rather nerverse about having it done is there any advic any body can give me me e-mail addy is peter. hewson @ hotmail .com please just ignore the spaces I look fowardto your reply |
| Your name: | Thomas |
| E-mail address: | jones468@btinternet.com |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: | Well it's 11 years to the day since I had surgery for Stage 'B' colon cancer. This resulted in a permanent colostomy and was followed by 5 weeks of daily radiotherapy, and then that was it, I was sent on my way with the usual follow up checks. For the first 12 months I struggled with the bag, irregular BM's resulting in constipation and the runs caused many problems with leakage etc. Then I badgered my surgeon and stoma nurse to let me try irrigation. They were indifferent at first but eventually gave in. From the day I started irrigating 10 years ago, irrigation immediately improved my quality of life many fold. In fact I find the longer I have been irrigating, the more my body has got used to it, and it has enabled me to lead a copletely normal life where I, and not my stoma is the boss !! |
| Your name: | robert harrison |
| E-mail address: | robbo48@live.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | hi all you colostomates, my name is rob and in 2007 my world fell apart as i was diagnosed with bowel&liver cancer, to my horror i was told i would have to have a bag fitted and it was a bit of a shock to the system,i first had an emergency colostomy done,then underwent radio/chemo for 5 weeks then back to hospital last year to have my tumor removed from my bowel,they also resited my bag and told me this would now be my new stoma. nothing has been done about the one on my liver yet but dont hold out to much hope about getting anything done. the docs are not saying much when i ask about my liver,they just say everything is ok upto now.i am coping with the bag but i am finding it hard to get undressed in front of my wife due to the scars left from the surgery we are now 12mth down the line now and we hardly have any close contact,maybe its just me i dont now.my wife is very understanding and tries to bring me out of my shell |
| Your name: | robert harrison |
| E-mail address: | robbo48@live.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | hi all you colostomates, my name is rob and in 2007 my world fell apart as i was diagnosed with bowel&liver cancer, to my horror i was told i would have to have a bag fitted and it was a bit of a shock to the system,i first had an emergency colostomy done,then underwent radio/chemo for 5 weeks then back to hospital last year to have my tumor removed from my bowel,they also resited my bag and told me this would now be my new stoma. nothing has been done about the one on my liver yet but dont hold out to much hope about getting anything done. the docs are not saying much when i ask about my liver,they just say everything is ok upto now.i am coping with the bag but i am finding it hard to get undressed in front of my wife due to the scars left from the surgery we are now 12mth down the line now and we hardly have any close contact,maybe its just me i dont now.my wife is very understanding and tries to bring me out of my shell |
| Your name: | andrew wright |
| E-mail address: | drew.wright54@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | had mine for 10 years now and i think that i am finally getting to recieve the benifits that it was supposed to bring now after a couple more surgeries [proctectomy scar tissue removal ] chrons can be a real PAIN IN THE BUTT. |
| Your name: | Jane Reynolds-Tate |
| E-mail address: | srt@uwclub.net |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: | My dad 'Jack' has a stoma and colostomy bag. He had his operation last september 2008. He was very ill at the time with a rectal tumour. He has had this succesfully removed and has been given the all clear. I feel he has been so lucky. He has done so well and has recovered 90%. Trouble is he feels he can't live a normal life with his new bag, he feel scared to go out, and won't consider a car journey at all. Is there anyone who can related to this chap who's been given a second chance of life who is finding it extremly hard to move forward.I will print off any replys and read them to him (also short sighted!) I feel this may help him to re tune his not so positive mind. Thank you Jane his daughter. |
| Your name: | lucy degidon |
| E-mail address: | lucycat1203@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I've had a colostomy for seven years. Maybe that inspired me, as an artist, to start what I call- a public bathroom beautification project. Our public bathrooms being ugly plus dirty. I started in my local park ladiesroom, doing animal paintings on the stall, outside and in. It is a big hit with the women and children who use the bathroom and see the art.
The local paper interviewed me, and photographed me next to my art-work. Whether you have a colosomy or the natural elimination system, we all should feel calm and relaxed in our moments of neccessary elimination. Am I right? |
| Your name: | Jeri |
| E-mail address: | jscrenci@verizon.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | lesleym52- thank you for your comments on bags and getting them to stick.
Had diverticulitis and emergency surgery 6/29/09. will have colostomy through Oct or Nov. Have had some trouble with the bags not lasting 3 or 4 days. always seem to lift. Nice to know I am not alone. Thank you |
| Your name: | Karlyn |
| E-mail address: | karlynbeavers@ymail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hello everyone,
I just wanted to thank everyone one here and know that we are strong people. I have had Chron's since I was 17 and last year when I turned 40 I had to have my surgery "Happy Birthday to me" but my doctor is amazing both my GI and Surgeon are amazing and I am lucky enough to put my health in there hands. I found that this page is one that when I am have a bad tummy day as my daughter calls it I can come here and read everyone's else story and know that I am not alone. My biggest problem is that I can only wear the bags for a day and half at the most without getting an infection so I have to purchase a box every other month. So again thanks to everyone who offers advise and I hope that any I respond to can help as well. God bless and here's to the good days. |
| Your name: | Rita West |
| E-mail address: | pfwest@hotmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had colon surgery on March 19 2009 and recovered well while in the hospital. I spend 5 days at the hospital. On March 29 i became realy ill went to the emergency room and they admitted me and had emergency surgery the next day and enden up with a colostomybag. Hated it so much didnt recover as quickly as before. Spend 4 days in ICU then 2 days later I woke up (they toldme this dont remember it) and complained about shortness of breath. I developed bloodcloths cos of the heparin. Nobody knew I was allergic to it, nearly died and they flew me with flightlife to an out of state hospital. Now I would like to do my reverse one, realy but I am so scared that something would go wrong again. Overall I do revover very quicky was back at work in about 6 weeks after first surgery. what questions should I ask the doctor I am going to see my surgeon in a week. Please what can I of should I expect from this surgery.
Thank you |
| Your name: | lesley |
| E-mail address: | lesleym52@hotmail.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | i have had a colostomy due to diverticulitis since 3/14/09. i have found the hollister bags to stick the best. i use the skin prep. (after washing and drying the area well) and then the karaya powder close to the stoma. do this 3 times, alternating skin prep and karaya, its called crusting. it helps your skin and helps the bag stick. the trick is to cut the hole in the bag exactly to fit the stoma. put the bag on looking in the mirror, start at the bottom..only the stoma should be exposed in the bag..no skin..press on the bag to help seal it. this has been what has worked forme..having a reversal on 9/10/09 |
| Your name: | Gaynor |
| E-mail address: | chloelouise1980@aol.com |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: | Hi, i have recently had a bag after i was diagnosed with Colitis but later found out i had ameobic colitis which i caught whilst been on holiday from the water, very rare in this country to be ill from this apparently. the thing is i was 12 weeks pregnant when diagnosied with this and had to have most of my large bowel removed and also part of my small too, i lost 3 stone in weight due to been so ill and doctors putting it down to my pregnancy. I have been told that i can have a reversal but wondered if anyone has regreted this...... by the way i am now 25 weeks pregnant and everything is fine, doctors dont know how she survived all the surgery. i have accepted my bag as it saved my life but am worried about the reversal.... |
| Your name: | Aracelia Zavalza |
| E-mail address: | aracelia1970@yahoo.com |
| Country: | Vacaville, CA USA |
| Comment or story: | Hello, I've always had bowl sindrome since very young age. At age 17 I was diagnosed with a tumor in the petuitary gland and at age 22 I was diagnosed with PCOS and with medications I gained alot of weight in the mid seccion, I basically look like sponge bob. It tood me 7 yrs to get pregnant and I finally did and she is great child. I have tried many diets and exercise wth trainers and it's been a disapointment of the time and work I do and the little amount I loose. At age 34 and my girl age 2 I was diagnosed with colon/rectal cancer stage 2. My marriage was in a verge of divorce so I didnt have no one with me. I didnt know much of the colostomy. I am still gaining weight, have lots of scars. Because I am SO FAT!! in the mid seccion my colon wasnt able to reach so my stoma is inwards, which I'm 5-6 days of 7 in pain (pain like raw meat with lemon on it) Its sooo painful. After 10 months of treatment I divorced, lost my house thru foreclosure and changed positions..then to top it off no one in my department are simpathetic especially cus they are 'SKINNY BITCHES'... I have asked my ET nurse, surgeon, and everyong you can imagen and all I'm told is to loose wgt and a "fix it" surgery will follow. I have done diets but many foods (crunchy, citruce, spicy, leaf, lots of veggies and fruits hurt on the way out), and to lots of exercise but not much weight come off and I'm constant talked about my 100lbs overweight and when I am in pain and stay in the restroom for 30mins I get criticised. There is alot more to my story but I have been told that there are MILLIONS of people with a colostomy and I have only met about 5 that are in their late 60's meaning no little kids or need to be work active etc etc. I am so so so depressed, I have thought of suicide even after taking meds, seeing my therapist and all. but what makes me not do it is my 6yr old girl. But I feel I can't know more. I am tired of being like an ugly moster with men. I cant get a date and I do and they make me feel its good and want to take it serious and when I tell him about the stoma they vanish in that same second. I feel lonely, sad, frustrated and horrible. So finding you it gives me a little of hope that I can have someone understand and exchange stories and help one another. I dont like to give up and now even if I wanted I can't cus I have my daughter I love and wouldnt like to leave her alone in this life.... I love her to much to do that to her. Please email me, I need help. Thanks |
| Your name: | Tashia Roberson |
| E-mail address: | reneawllms@yahoo.com |
| Country: | Edgecome |
| Comment or story: | iam a single mother of 8.i had my colostomy since 1995.looking for a friend,someone i can relate with me.iam saved and love God.love to talk. |
| Your name: | Billy |
| E-mail address: | willett04@fuse.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Had colostomy takedown surgery 30 days ago and it was really a piece of cake.I was only in the hospital 4 days and back to work in 7 days. Doctor said as long as I ate a high fiber diet I should be be ok form now on.{had colostomy due to diverticulitis}. |
| Your name: | RENA |
| E-mail address: | krk.kerr@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | hi everyone and may god bless each and everyone of you.
i have read alot of your stories and i can relate to alot of them because i had colon cancer and had a stoma. i was scared too because i had never heard of one.i've experinced alot of your pain your feelings and confusion. i wish i could talk to alot of you one on one.i too didn't want to go around anyone because of the smell. but alot of people would tell me they could not smell it.so i guess it was me? just knowing it was there. i prayed a whole lot thru that time and still do. i pray for you too. i did't want to tell my doctor what i was feeling because i was scared there might be something else wrong. but god blessed me with good doctors and home nurses and family that helped me alot. if you live in or around chicago,ill there is a good doctor there his name is george j kontos he's on the web it will say born in chicago.he was a god send . he will treat you like family not a piece of meat. he will sit down with you and talk with you about any thing. he won't let you go until your well. i've been thru the reversal which i had 3yrs later.i still feel alot of anxity,fear but you know what if i had to go thru what i went thru in order to help someone else than it was worth it.it takes a while for your mind to heal along with your body. i'm not where i want to be but with god's help i will get there. i just want you to know i love each and every one of you and i speak blessings and healing on each and everyone. |
| Your name: | Peter Hewson |
| E-mail address: | peter.hewson@hotmail.com |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | I have a problem with my bowels I have a colostomy but my body is trying to push goo out of my bum and some times undigested food what should I do please help because I am in great pain at the moment |
| Your name: | Brian |
| E-mail address: | whobehokie@hotmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I'm a 26 year old male i was in a car accident in may 2005 and had to get a colostomy which actually was one of the least of my problems. But i had no clue what it was when i woke up and wanted to know why that was coming out of it. But as time went on i learned alot about it and was a little worried how i would act after going home and out in public with it what people would think. At first we thought it was able to be fixed well it has been four years now and its not able to be fixed. I have learned to deal with it i have some problems with it from time to time but nothing that you cant deal with. There is still alot of people out there that still have no clue what one is and i wish i could educate them about them because you will never know when you will need to know about one. But people saying that they are not able to work or to be active with one is a false statement. I work as a CNA and in school to be a rn it is not a handicap at all. It does take some getting used to and finding what product works best for your body. But you are going to have times that it leaks or even it comes off and dont get me wrong it can be embarassing but that is just part of it i guess. But it dont stop you from being who you was before in anyway what so ever. You are going to have pains from it from time to time but nothing overwhelming or that wont go away with the help of a good doctor. But thank you all for listening to me and part or my story i just hope it can help at least one person to realize that they are the same person they was before they got "there bag" it doesnt make you no less or a person its not a handicap in a way it makes you a better person because you can maybe educate someone who gets one and share you story with them. Thanks Again so much for listeing to my story. God Bless and have a blessed day. |
| Your name: | deb |
| E-mail address: | dllwoman@bellsouth.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | hi i had colon cancer 2006, im still living with the bag on and they said they can reverse the bag but still waiting have to lose weight im trying, i was in the hospital 3 weeks ago didnt know you can have a blockage i have 2 hernias 1 in belly button the other by the stoma im scared to death. ive been threw chemo and pills no i didnt lose my hair i was surprised. my story is long of what ive been threw, allmost dided i just cant believe what ive been threw. i would like to make a friend someone to talk to, i get very depressed i dont change my bag my husband does, im scared to look at it. yes im a big baby.lol bye deb |
| Your name: | liliana hernandez |
| E-mail address: | lillybaby53@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hi My Name Is Liliana Hernandez I livd in San Bernardino All My Life.I will Like for my heath to get better I hate to live like this. I will like to have fun with my family. there is day that I don'tr feel good. like today. I just don't wont pepole around me I will like for them to go away that is way I will like to get better. |
| Your name: | Liliana Hernandez |
| E-mail address: | lillybaby53@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hi My Name is Liliana Hernandez And Iam from San Bernardino Ca I lived here all my life. This is the story about me of what happen to me.I had went to the docters to go and see him about a pain that I was having in my stomach this docter was just naming thing coming from his mind and i did not even have that. he did not wont to do frther tests so I was fight ins sicknes for a long time. yhis docter should not be one at all. |
| Your name: | Matthew Legg |
| E-mail address: | leggman102@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My son was born 8/6/08. He was born with no anus, caudal regression, prune belly syndrome, one kidney, neurogenic bladder. He had a colostomy placed at 18 hours of age. He did great! We had the pull through surgery at the end of February and that went great too.We just had the colostomy reversal surgery and it went well except that his intestines have been bloated for over a week and the doctors are'nt sure why. He is pooping and he is only a little uncomfortable nso they are going to do an upper GI monday to see if there is motility in his intestines. |
| Your name: | Liliana |
| E-mail address: | Lillybaby53@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hello everybody I am a 25 year old mother of 2 little boys ages 3 and 1. About a month and a half ago I under went unexpected major sugery due to medical neglect. I ended up with a colosomy, reversable in the future I HOPE. This expreience has been very difficult for me to cope with and understand. Their are symtoms that I wish I could understand so I am glad I found this site and hope to gain some knowledge from people who are going through the same situation that I find myself in. I feel so depressed can I live a normal life? I have a hard time keeping the patches in place is their any tips to applying them? Well thanks I needed this. |
| Your name: | Donna Baughman |
| E-mail address: | JamasPM@AOL.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I visited England in 1973. I was happy and healthy. I can remember a horse-drawn carriage carrying milk with the cream on top that I bought everyday. We didn't have a lot of money so I could tell you what we ate. We were there three months and traveled about two weeks and returned home.
I lot 40 pounds in one month after starting to see signs. Then, you were nuts and needed rest. That was about all the science involved. I have had an illeostomy 34 years with great success. I have had two children and am still relatively healthy -- except for being overweight. I have been married 30 years and really don't think much about the surgery, except to change the appliance. |
| Your name: | elinor irene carr |
| E-mail address: | pjadegolde@aol.com |
| Country: | scotland |
| Comment or story: | had colostomy december 31 2007 due to peritonitis and had complications and nearly died as infection spread through my system.was going to have it reversed but as i have always been constipated it is better if i keep colostomy.iam happy with my stoma and it doesnt bother me living with it,once you get bag that fits well it is eay to live with |
| Your name: | Sam |
| E-mail address: | waterlilie@live.co.uk |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: |
I am writing this on behalf of my mother. She's been treated with radiation for 2 months for cancer in the abdomen. 3 months later, she started complaining of pain in her stomach and burning on her skin. Her skin got so burned it looked almost black. The pain became more and more severe and 5 weeks ago she was standing in the kitchen when her colon ruptured and a sea of body waste erupted from her stomach and fell on the floor. It was a truly horrible moment for her and she had to wait for my sister to come and take her to emergencies where she had an urgent surgical operation. She woke up with a colostomy on her left side but the doctor couldn't close the wound which had perforated as it needed to evacuate all the mucus and other dirty stuff... she had to get used to changing the colostomy bag which is far from comfortable and keeps falling. At the same time she had to apply a bandage to her wound which kept leaking of mucus. The doctor said the wound would take a very long time to heal and might not close as the skin around it was badly burned from radiation. She has been in constant pain and would wake up screaming from pain every night. Pain killers would reduce the pain a little but only for few hours. Last week the wound started leaking of feces again so my mum went in panick to the hospital where the doctor suspected another small intestine has perforated and suggested an operation. She was operated on last Thursday. The doctor confirmed another perforation and several digestive fistulas. He removed them and reduced the size of the wound but he still didn't want to close it. She is still in hospital, they have put her on drips until the intestine is completely dry but she is still in severe pain and has to have injections to sleep at night. I have been worried sick all this week althought i feel a little reassured after reading that many people feel pain following surgery but i am still worried she might be in pain after she is discharged from hospital. Are there any strong medication which can help? Thanks all for reading this. |
| Your name: | Sam |
| E-mail address: | waterlilie@live.co.uk |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: |
I am writing this on behalf of my mother. She's been treated with radiation for 2 months for cancer in the abdomen. 3 months later, she started complaining of pain in her stomach and burning on her skin. Her skin got so burned it looked almost black. The pain became more and more severe and 5 weeks ago she was standing in the kitchen when her colon ruptured and a sea of body waste erupted from her stomach and fell on the floor. It was a truly horrible moment for her and she had to wait for my sister to come and take her to emergencies where she had an urgent surgical operation. She woke up with a colostomy on her left side but the doctor couldn't close the wound which had perforated as it needed to evacuate all the mucus and other dirty stuff... she had to get used to changing the colostomy bag which is far from comfortable and keeps falling. At the same time she had to apply a bandage to her wound which kept leaking of mucus. The doctor said the wound would take a very long time to heal and might not close as the skin around it was badly burned from radiation. She has been in constant pain and would wake up screaming from pain every night. Pain killers would reduce the pain a little but only for few hours. Last week the wound started leaking of feces again so my mum went in panick to the hospital where the doctor suspected another small intestine has perforated and suggested an operation. She was operated on last Thursday. The doctor confirmed another perforation and several digestive fistulas. He removed them and reduced the size of the wound but he still didn't want to close it. She is still in hospital, they have put her on drips until the intestine is completely dry but she is still in severe pain and has to have injections to sleep at night. I have been worried sick all this week althought i feel a little reassured after reading that many people feel pain following surgery but i am still worried she might be in pain after she is discharged from hospital. Are there any strong medication which can help? Thanks all for reading this. |
| Your name: | Paul Foley |
| E-mail address: | clearway@live.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | Does anyone know how many colostomies are done in the USA?
I have a device that reduces bathroom time,sanitation and order. thank you Paul Foley |
| Your name: | Roshanali |
| E-mail address: | chotupk@gmail.com |
| Country: | Pakistan |
| Comment or story: | I have problems here as I do not get the supplies and when I am abroad I get them,I want to know as how long one can keep(store) colostomy bags unused ?Roshan |
| Your name: | Peta |
| E-mail address: | peta.denmeade@gmail.com.au |
| Country: | Australia |
| Comment or story: | Hi,
My name is Peta and I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when I was 16. I spent a lot of time in and out of hospital over about 12 months and at the age of 17 I had a total colectomy and now have an ileostomy. I have been doing a bit of research about intestinal transplants but there isnt much to go on here in Australia. I am now 23 and would love to be rid of my bag. Does anyone know if its possible to do a reversal in my case? Or does anyone know a surgeon i can contact? I am not worried about cost or anything like that. I will find the money one way or the other if i have to i just want to know if its possible. Or if i am simply chasing a lost dream. I would love to hear from anyone. Thanks, Peta x |
| Your name: | Peta |
| E-mail address: | peta.denmeade@gmail.com.au |
| Country: | Australia |
| Comment or story: | Hi,
My name is Peta and I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease when I was 16. I spent a lot of time in and out of hospital over about 12 months and at the age of 17 I had a total colectomy and now have an ileostomy. I have been doing a bit of research about intestinal transplants but there isnt much to go on here in Australia. I am now 23 and would love to be rid of my bag. Does anyone know if its possible to do a reversal in my case? Or does anyone know a surgeon i can contact? I am not worried about cost or anything like that. I will find the money one way or the other if i have to i just want to know if its possible. Or if i am simply chasing a lost dream. I would love to hear from anyone. Thanks, Peta x |
| Your name: | Janice |
| E-mail address: | janice_fx@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | In Oct of 2008 I had my whole large intestine removed and was given a bag until I healed for the next surger. I had many problems with the pouch not sticking to my skin correctly. The pouch would leak and it started to burn my skin. I had my reversal surgery seven weeks later in Dec. 08 and still not right. I have diarrhea, hemrroids, bleeding, burning, and gas. I don't know what to eat as everything does not work. I've been back to the doctors but no one wants to help. I've tried most products on the market to help with the skin burning around the rectum. I can deal with the diarrhea and the hemrroids, but the gas and the burning are something else. I've been told to eat chicken and pasta. I'm having a CT scan to determine if anything else is wrong. I do not recommend this surgery at all as I've had nothing but trouble. I had familia polyposis disease with a very strong history of colon cancer on both sides of my family. I had three opinions for this surgery. No one said how bad it was. |
| Your name: | Richard |
| E-mail address: | towncrierone@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I lost a friend a few years back who had the surgery. When I became her primary health care provider I had to deal with the bags (pouches?) and found them to be less than satisfactory. I promised her I would develop a product that would return a person's dignity (she lost hers) and I have accomplished that goal...to a point. Why am I here? I need to know the good and bad experiences ostomates are dealing with on a daily basis in regards to the bags they use. Do they break? Do they fall off? Where is your stoma located? (Above or below the waist)? Are you unable to play high school sports because of it? How much volume (of liquid) is released each time (a close estimate will do...1/4 cup, 1/2 cup, etc.) You get the idea. I have a prototype of the new product (appropriately named Dignity) but before I can go into production I need to find out what the daily life of an ostomate is like. I have a colon rectal surgeon waiting to bring in his patients for testing of the product (and he is embarased at how little he thought about his patients daily life after surgery) but I want to be ahead of the process and be able to offer a product that works from the first try.(if that' possible...I'm realistic enough to know a change or two will be needed). He set up a meeting last month with 12 ET nurses but they were only concerned with how much they were going to get paid for the meeting. I'm sure some or most of you have a great support group but these nurses were only interested in how much was in it for them. I don't think any of them were low enough on the totem pole to have actually touched a patient in years. At the moment they make enough from the bag suppliers to actually tell me there was nothing wrong with the bags...even in intimate situations. I'm sorry..I may not be a patient myself...but that can't possibly be true? Can it? I will design this product even if it is never used...but I sure could use some help. Thank you and I apologize for writing a novel. |
| Your name: | Gina |
| E-mail address: | ginanotter@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I have several items of ostomy supplies available. This includes bags, skin prep, adhesive remover, paste, powder, saline, gauze pads, kaltostat, gauze tape, latex gloves and probably more that I just can't think of right now. Contact me for more information. I'm not trying to make a big buck on these so I'm selling for pretty cheap - you name the price basically. I'm just trying to help someone out. I know how costly these things can be! Call Gina at 708-284-4248 or email: ginanotter@sbcglobal.net (put ostomy in subject line). |
| Your name: | Gina |
| E-mail address: | ginanotter@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I have several items of ostomy supplies available. This includes bags, skin prep, adhesive remover, paste, powder, saline, gauze pads, kaltostat, gauze tape, latex gloves and probably more that I just can't think of right now. Contact me for more information. I'm not trying to make a big buck on these so I'm selling for pretty cheap - you name the price basically. I'm just trying to help someone out. I know how costly these things can be! Call Gina at 708-284-4248 or email: ginanotter@sbcglobal.net (put ostomy in subject line). |
| Your name: | M. A. Saeger |
| E-mail address: | mreichard7@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | In August 2008 I had AAA repair surgery. Complications made it necessary to have a colostomy the following day. I spent 12 days in ICU, total 31 days in hospital, & rehab. Then, had to stay @ daughter's house for 2 months for additional rehab, 3Xs daily wound changes, and "getting to know my ostomy". It is an unfortunate situation, but one I've been dealt, so I deal w/it. Rather me than my children or grandchildren, for sure! I would like to find an ostomy, or colostomy support group; have searched but cannot find one in my area (NE PA). I miss my former "energy" and hope it will return.
|
| Your name: | Susan |
| E-mail address: | grandmajay@gmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I would love to hear from ostamates that have exxperience flying long distances (12 hours or more) with their ostomies and any problems that I should prepare for in this long trip I am about to take.Thanks so much |
| Your name: | Michelle |
| E-mail address: | rmf0430@optonline.net |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I am a 37 year old female. I had to have emergency surg October 1st 2008. Due to Div. I had my reversal done on Feb 3rd 2009. My first surg I wound up back in the hospital due to an infection. Then a reaction and cramping due to medication. A nightmare!! Luckily I had the best doctor in the world. My reversal was a walk in the park compared to the first operation. I was home in 5 days. I didn't even finish my pain meds. Thats how great I felt. To anyone who is having problems with proper fittings. If your insurance covers it try to get an ostomy nurse to come to you house. They will fit you correctly and support you with any questions you may have. Plus a 24 hour nurse on call. I would not have made it through without them. I was lucky to have them for the first 2 months everyday! Only because I had an open wound due to the infection that they needed to care for. Otherwise they would have come 2/3 times a week which would have been great as well. Thankfully I was young and in good health otherwise so I healed quick. Its not easy as we all know. But it certainly makes us stronger! Love to all and best of luck!! I am not a pro at this but I would love any emails from you guys if you have any questions or if you want to vent or talk! |
| Your name: | Marilyn |
| E-mail address: | mreichard7@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Had a colostomy August 2008 due to complications from AAA repair surgery. Still learning to deal w/"issues".
Now have a hernia; I'm not sure what to do about that? Should have been forewarned. |
| Your name: | gaby |
| E-mail address: | sosag70@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | my son was born with no anus and he has had a colostomy since 11/08/09 and for mr it has been very hard because i dont know if it hurts to heve a colostomy or if it bothers him in any way and i would realy like to know |
| Your name: | gaby |
| E-mail address: | sosag70@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | my son was born with no anus and he has had a colostomy since 11/08/09 and for mr it has been very hard because i dont know if it hurts to heve a colostomy or if it bothers him in any way and i would realy like to know |
| Your name: | Marilyn |
| E-mail address: | mreichard7@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My colostomy is a result of "complications" following surgery for an adominal aortic aneurysm repair. I was in ICU for 12 days, total in hospital & rehab 31 days, then had to stay w/daughter for 2 months for home-health care & wound-dressing changes. I'm doing okay now, w/exception of large hernia, about which I should have been fore-warned (30% of colostomates develop hernias). Problem is finding a comfortable "belt". I thank God it's not worse... |
| Your name: | Jodi |
| E-mail address: | jodi.martin@att.net |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | Had my entire colon removed on x-mas eve, 1998.No problems, really, except now my doc says I have a large hernia near the stoma site. It dosnt hurt, but looks like a bulge even with jeans on. Wonder if anyone has had this problem, and what was done about it.Thanks! |
| Your name: | Gina |
| E-mail address: | ginanotter@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I originally had a colostomy due to the fact that my doc perforated my uterus in which then perforated my bowel. I had the colostomy for 3 1/2 months and just had the reversal 3 weeks ago. I ended up being in the hospital this time for 4 days. I knew what I had to do to get out of there. I knew it was best to start walking as soon as possible and when I stood up to stand up straight - this is key. I've read that the body heals better when standing up straight and not slouching. I don't know if this is true but what do I have to lose right??? Anyway, I'm not in a great amount of pain anymore, it's just mild at this point. It hurts sometimes more than usual but I think this is due to what activities I have done or the position I may have slept in overnight. I also still take it easy climbing stairs and getting up from the bed or a seated position or even the way I sit or how I lay. I've had diarrhea but I also just had the stomach flu for 8 days or at least that's what my doctor said it was (blood tests were taken to rule out problems). I was scared it was due to my reversal but since have been feeling better and getting my energy back and not much of the loose stools anymore. I also have discomfort on the skin around my rectum. The only thing I can think of is that my skin around "there" hasn't been exposed to stool for awhile so it has to build up it's resistance to that again. I have stomach cramping (mild) & a nausea feeling in the morning and usually have bowel movements a couple of times a day. I hope the cramping goes away but I've read that many people get them for months afterwards. I still am taking Pepcid 20mg twice a day along with Metamucil once a day; I'm not sure how long I have to do that for and will have to ask my doctor when I see him. My wound was an open wound maybe 4 inches and it closed in about 10 days after the surgery. It seems that my left side (the colostomy side) of my stomach is smaller than my right. It's a bit out of whack and uneven. I'm thinking it will be like this for the rest of my life even when my incision is fully healed and with diet/exercise. It's something probably only cosmetic surgery would fix but I'll be damned if I go under "the knife" again. When I came out of surgery my doc talked to my family about the surgery and my restrictions. He told them my restrictions were no laundry, vacuuming, driving for 2 weeks or holding the baby in her carrier. I guess I'm cleared for everything else - using common sense of course. I still have questions for him as far as what I should and should not do but don't see him for 3 more weeks. I know my body has limitations at this point and I have to remember even though I'm feeling better not to take any chances on my recovery. If you're ever feeling unsure of anything call your doctor. It's truly better to be safe than sorry. I don't take any chances anymore. Good luck to everyone and if you have any questions, please feel free to email me. |
| Your name: | Gina |
| E-mail address: | ginanotter@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I originally had a colostomy due to the fact that my doc perforated my uterus in which then perforated my bowel. I had the colostomy for 3 1/2 months and just had the reversal 3 weeks ago. I ended up being in the hospital this time for 4 days. I knew what I had to do to get out of there. I knew it was best to start walking as soon as possible and when I stood up to stand up straight - this is key. I've read that the body heals better when standing up straight and not slouching. I don't know if this is true but what do I have to lose right??? Anyway, I'm not in a great amount of pain anymore, it's just mild at this point. It hurts sometimes more than usual but I think this is due to what activities I have done or the position I may have slept in overnight. I also still take it easy climbing stairs and getting up from the bed or a seated position or even the way I sit or how I lay. I've had diarrhea but I also just had the stomach flu for 8 days or at least that's what my doctor said it was (blood tests were taken to rule out problems). I was scared it was due to my reversal but since have been feeling better and getting my energy back and not much of the loose stools anymore. I also have discomfort on the skin around my rectum. The only thing I can think of is that my skin around "there" hasn't been exposed to stool for awhile so it has to build up it's resistance to that again. I have stomach cramping (mild) & a nausea feeling in the morning and usually have bowel movements a couple of times a day. I hope the cramping goes away but I've read that many people get them for months afterwards. I still am taking Pepcid 20mg twice a day along with Metamucil once a day; I'm not sure how long I have to do that for and will have to ask my doctor when I see him. My wound was an open wound maybe 4 inches and it closed in about 10 days after the surgery. It seems that my left side (the colostomy side) of my stomach is smaller than my right. It's a bit out of whack and uneven. I'm thinking it will be like this for the rest of my life even when my incision is fully healed and with diet/exercise. It's something probably only cosmetic surgery would fix but I'll be damned if I go under "the knife" again. When I came out of surgery my doc talked to my family about the surgery and my restrictions. He told them my restrictions were no laundry, vacuuming, driving for 2 weeks or holding the baby in her carrier. I guess I'm cleared for everything else - using common sense of course. I still have questions for him as far as what I should and should not do but don't see him for 3 more weeks. I know my body has limitations at this point and I have to remember even though I'm feeling better not to take any chances on my recovery. If you're ever feeling unsure of anything call your doctor. It's truly better to be safe than sorry. I don't take any chances anymore. Good luck to everyone and if you have any questions, please feel free to email me. |
| Your name: | Dottie Lane |
| E-mail address: | dotmarv@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Hi. My colostomy was done Oct. 23 last year, and I'm still having trouble using the correct equipment. My bags keep getting loose and then I have leakage and have to change everything, including clothing. I am afraid to be away from home for a very long time. Also, I wonder if anyone has information about different brands they use, with good results, so that I can then try them. This is really causing desperation and frustration. Thank you.
|
| Your name: | Gina |
| E-mail address: | ginanotter@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | USA/Illinois |
| Comment or story: | I originally had a colostomy due to the fact that my doc perforated my uterus in which then perforated my bowel. I had the colostomy for 3 1/2 months and just had the reversal 3 weeks ago. I ended up being in the hospital this time for 4 days. I knew what I had to do to get out of there. I knew it was best to start walking as soon as possible and when I stood up to stand up straight - this is key. I've read that the body heals better when standing up straight and not slouching. I don't know if this is true but what do I have to lose right??? Anyway, I'm not in a great amount of pain anymore, it's just mild at this point. It hurts sometimes more than usual but I think this is due to what activities I have done or the position I may have slept in overnight. I also still take it easy climbing stairs and getting up from the bed or a seated position or even the way I sit or how I lay. I've had diarrhea but I also just had the stomach flu for 8 days or at least that's what my doctor said it was (blood tests were taken to rule out problems). I was scared it was due to my reversal but since have been feeling better and getting my energy back and not much of the loose stools anymore. I also have discomfort on the skin around my rectum. The only thing I can think of is that my skin around "there" hasn't been exposed to stool for awhile so it has to build up it's resistance to that again. I have stomach cramping (mild) & a nausea feeling in the morning and usually have bowel movements a couple of times a day. I hope the cramping goes away but I've read that many people get them for months afterwards. I still am taking Pepcid 20mg twice a day along with Metamucil once a day; I'm not sure how long I have to do that for and will have to ask my doctor when I see him. My wound was an open wound maybe 4 inches and it closed in about 10 days after the surgery. It seems that my left side (the colostomy side) of my stomach is smaller than my right. It's a bit out of whack and uneven. I'm thinking it will be like this for the rest of my life even when my incision is fully healed and with diet/exercise. It's something probably only cosmetic surgery would fix but I'll be damned if I go under "the knife" again. When I came out of surgery my doc talked to my family about the surgery and my restrictions. He told them my restrictions were no laundry, vacuuming, driving for 2 weeks or holding the baby in her carrier. I guess I'm cleared for everything else - using common sense of course. I still have questions for him as far as what I should and should not do but don't see him for 3 more weeks. I know my body has limitations at this point and I have to remember even though I'm feeling better not to take any chances on my recovery. If you're ever feeling unsure of anything call your doctor. It's truly better to be safe than sorry. I don't take any chances anymore. Good luck to everyone and if you have any questions, please feel free to email me. |
| Your name: | REGINA CASTILLO |
| E-mail address: | nagy0654@yahoo.com |
| Country: | PANAMA CITY |
| Comment or story: | HI, I AM GINA FROM PANAMA CITY, I HAVE A COLOSTOMY SINCE 2005, I IRRIGATED 3 TIME A WEEK SO I HAVE NOT PROBLEMS WITH IT, I STEEL WORKING, I AM A SOCIAL WORKER SINCE 27 YEARS AGO, SOON I WILL BE RETIRED,I HAVE 55 YEARS OLD, I LIKE TO BE SOCIABLE AND HAVE A HEALTHY LIFE STYLE, BUT IT HARD TO GET SOMEBODY WHO DONT HAVE THIS ,TO BE A PARNER OR HAVE A RELATION,ONLY AN OSTOMIZED PERSON CAN UNDERSTAND ANOTHER ONE, SO IF SOMEBODY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THIS PLEASE WRITE ME, MAYBE WE CAN MATCH, AND HAVE A GO0D RELATION AND FRIENSHIP.
THANK YOU GINA FROM PANAMA CITY |
| Your name: | Jenny |
| E-mail address: | jennylynnmc@hotmail.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had an emergency colonostomy after my colon had burst because of undiagnosed diverticulitis. That was in June 2008. I very nearly lost my life and really didn't wake up clearly until into the 3rd day following the surgery to realize I had an ostomy bag. I then had more small intestine to become twisted and had another section removed in September 2008. I really have become accustomed to the ostomy bag, although it isn't pleasant still to have to change your own poop bags! I feel fortunate that I have the opportunity for reversal...although I am nervous about it. I have had a lot of health problems and this is the first time I have been this nervous about a procedure.
I am 57. The same general surgeon who did my 2nd surgery in September is doing my reversal. He said I will be cut again up and down the middle of my abdomen area. This will be the 3rd long incision in the same place from above my belly button down to just above the private area. He has told me that this 3rd surgery will be harder on me, mainly because it will be the 3rd time to go back into my abdomen. First, I have read that someone got to do this by lapyrotic (spelling, sorry). I don't have that record. Is it possible? Also, I am having a general surgeon to do mine and is that a bad thing? Another person wrote they got some kind of specialist. Also, I am very confused about how to do the enema tests on the stoma that are needed for the pretest where the surgeon will be checking that my rectal wall is stable and then the enema again for the surgery. I can not understand how I will insert an enema into the stoma -- I am afraid of the end of the enema being harmful to the stoma. And then how do I as neatly and un-grossly as possible contain the bowel clean out as I remove the enema end from the stoma. I asked nurses about that and I have had none of them to know how. The doctor has told meto prepare for the pain following. I have had severe rheumatoid arthritis for 33 years so I am used to pain, although abdomen pain wears me out more. Any suggestions about preparation before hand? Surgery is March 23, 2009. Comments on this page have already helped some. |
| Your name: | George |
| E-mail address: | georgebradbury@hotmail.com |
| Country: | England/world |
| Comment or story: | When the doctor told me I had bowel cancer, I was devasted, but only for that day. I lay awake, alone, all that night, but, with the rising of the sun, and the start of the new day, I resolved not to let it get me down. Its bad enough having cancer, without the fear and unhappyness that often accompanies it. So, while recovering, I applied to study for a degree at university, which I achieved and now use in a new career. I've been lucky, its been 5 years since the operation and, although I know the damn thing might still come back and kill me, I know I've used the experience to my advantage, as much as is possible. Sure, I'd rather it hadn't happened, but it did and that, I cannot change, so I must make the best of it. |
| Your name: | Janice Joyce |
| E-mail address: | jancie55@yahoo.ca |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | Hi. I've had an ostomy for the last 10 years. In 1999, my bowel perforated and they performed a colostomy. In 2002, they were going to reverse it and instead I ended up having the colon removed and I now have a permanent ileostomy. In November of 2008, they removed my rectum so that's a done deal. There are very few people around here, my age, with ostomies so its very difficult to talk it over with anyone. Would love to hear from any of you. |
| Your name: | Dianna Lykins |
| E-mail address: | stastus@aol.com |
| Country: | United States |
| Comment or story: | I am an ostomate and have been struggling to find a supplier who could take care of my needs. I heard about a place in Newark Delaware, Northeast Express who was able to get me exactly what I needed to improve my daily life and there is no frustrating answer system to push any prompts. Someone always answers the phone and I get my supplies usually the next day. I just wanted to share this information to everyone who has an ostomy. I just couldn't keep this good thing to myself. There number is 1-800-962-9513 and there website is www.nexpmed.com Look them up and see what they carry. You won't be disappointed =) |
| Your name: | Jim Pickrell |
| E-mail address: | clownmanaz@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Well I have a reversible colostomy on my left side which is rather high on my left side. I developed diverticulitis a week before last Thanksgiving and ended up in the VA emergency room. Turns out I was sick for over a week with a perforated colon. The doctors said that I almost did not make it and I am lucky to still be alive. After 11 weeks in the hospital I have now been home for 2 weeks. They were unable to close my wound from belly button to pubic bone and they had to sew in mesh and a skin graft that looks like half a foot ball. They say it has to heal from the inside out and may take a year or so. I was told that my colostomy would not hurt but it does around the stoma and the cramps I suffer from before I pass the stool is painful too. I was wondering if this is common? I don't like having this bag on me but it is better than the alternative. I was told that it is reversible and it should be done in about 10 months. I was wondering what I am in store for, how long will I be in the hospital, and how long I will have to be in bed rest before I can go back to work. I have not been able to find much information on the internet and would appreciate any informed reply's. Thanks for listening I am so depressed by the whole thing and very frightened at the same time... :o( |
| Your name: | Jim Pickrell |
| E-mail address: | clownmanaz@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Well I have a reversible colostomy on my left side which is rather high on my left side. I developed diverticulitis a week before last Thanksgiving and ended up in the VA emergency room. Turns out I was sick for over a week with a perforated colon. The doctors said that I almost did not make it and I am lucky to still be alive. After 11 weeks in the hospital I have now been home for 2 weeks. They were unable to close my wound from belly button to pubic bone and they had to sew in mesh and a skin graft that looks like half a foot ball. They say it has to heal from the inside out and may take a year or so. I was told that my colostomy would not hurt but it does around the stoma and the cramps I suffer from before I pass the stool is painful too. I was wondering if this is common? I don't like having this bag on me but it is better than the alternative. I was told that it is reversible and it should be done in about 10 months. I was wondering what I am in store for, how long will I be in the hospital, and how long I will have to be in bed rest before I can go back to work. I have not been able to find much information on the internet and would appreciate any informed reply's. Thanks for listening I am so depressed by the whole thing and very frightened at the same time... :o( |
| Your name: | Jim |
| E-mail address: | checkthemailbox@gmail.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | I was living without any health problems and feeling pretty good. I was just about two weeks home from vacation when on June 27, 2008 I woke up with a pain in my left side. It did not improve and I started to feel far worse throughout the day. I ended up in the ER and in surgery at 2a.m. for a four hour operation. I woke from surgery with the ostomy on my left side. The hospital stay was 13 days and on heavy antibiotics and very sick for the majority of that time. Since then I have recovered nicely and am now feeling better then I have in years. The ostomy is working without any difficulties and othwerwise there are no health problems to speak of. After several tests my surgeon has told me that he is scheduling me sometime this month, March 2009, for reversal surgery. This is good news. However, he also said that the tests he done show that there is still a lot of diverticula present and he won't be 100% sure until he actually goes in whether he will have enough length to rejoin me. But, he said it's worth a shot at it in his mind. To be honest I now have a lot of anxiety and it's increasing as surgery time draws closer and closer. I have been looking for others that have had similar situations and have gone through with reversals. Wondering what the experience is and what I can expect. Wondering if your reversal decision was a success and whether it was a good choice to go back for the reversal surgery. There are just so many questions and so little answers or people to share a similar experience with. My problem was ruptured diverticulitis and apparently I lost about 10 inches of colon in surgery.
I am wondering if a reversal surgery is a high-risk surgery in my case, where otherwise I am healthy, male and 54. If anyone would like to email me to share your experiences and especially your reversal experiences would be appreciated. Thank you. |
| Your name: | Jim |
| E-mail address: | checkthemailbox@gmail.com |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | I was living without any health problems and feeling pretty good. I was just about two weeks home from vacation when on June 27, 2008 I woke up with a pain in my left side. It did not improve and I started to feel far worse throughout the day. I ended up in the ER and in surgery at 2a.m. for a four hour operation. I woke from surgery with the ostomy on my left side. The hospital stay was 13 days and on heavy antibiotics and very sick for the majority of that time. Since then I have recovered nicely and am now feeling better then I have in years. The ostomy is working without any difficulties and othwerwise there are no health problems to speak of. After several tests my surgeon has told me that he is scheduling me sometime this month, March 2009, for reversal surgery. This is good news. However, he also said that the tests he done show that there is still a lot of diverticula present and he won't be 100% sure until he actually goes in whether he will have enough length to rejoin me. But, he said it's worth a shot at it in his mind. To be honest I now have a lot of anxiety and it's increasing as surgery time draws closer and closer. I have been looking for others that have had similar situations and have gone through with reversals. Wondering what the experience is and what I can expect. Wondering if your reversal decision was a success and whether it was a good choice to go back for the reversal surgery. There are just so many questions and so little answers or people to share a similar experience with. My problem was ruptured diverticulitis and apparently I lost about 10 inches of colon in surgery.
I am wondering if a reversal surgery is a high-risk surgery in my case, where otherwise I am healthy, male and 54. If anyone would like to email me to share your experiences and especially your reversal experiences would be appreciated. Thank you. |
| Your name: | Betty |
| E-mail address: | betlizt@gmail.com |
| Country: | U.S.A |
| Comment or story: | I am an 81 yr. old woman. I had a colostomy in 2004 and have been told it is not reversible and I really would not want to go thru anymore surgery at this time in my life. I am managing with the bag okay but don't feel comfortable about going among people. No matter what I do I still feel I have an odor. I have a leakage of mucus from my rectum and that seems to have an odor also. I would like to have a penpal who will exchange messages with me. My husband passed away in 2007 and my computer is my contact with the outside world. I would prefer to hear from someone who has a colostomy also so we can exchange information. |
| Your name: | kate |
| E-mail address: | katespcd@aol.co.uk |
| Country: | england |
| Comment or story: | Hi there..I had a colostomy last august after my gynae doctor perforated my bowel whilst i was having what should have been a simple operation.They didnt realise until 9 days later by which time i had peritonitis and nearly died and ended up in intensive care,(even though i kept telling them i was in immense pain)They just said i had wind!!!
I was in hospital for 5 wks and really only got better after i had a blood transfusion..I have had a terrible time since as im only 36 and led a really active life. I have just had a reversal 2 wks ago and am in more pain than ever..I keep getting a really bad burning pain in my stomach around the stoma site when i walk..I cant do anything.. Has anyone out there had the same and if so how long did it last? Also what is it??? Docs dont seem to know.. Look forward to hearing from you.. Also some advice..Dont ever go in the leicester royal infirmary!!!!! |
| Your name: | Rebecca Jackson |
| E-mail address: | dtray76@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | My 2 year old daughter was born with cloacal anomoaly. we are now being told that a reversal of her colostomy will not be possible due to not having enough pelvic support! We believe that somewhere out there is a doctor that can give us a hope. I've heard it can be done and it could mean following a bowel program!! I guess what I need is some good advise from those who know best. 1) Do I push the issue? 2) Leave well enough alone? Or 3) Allow her to grow up and decide for herself??? |
| Your name: | Randy Lewis |
| E-mail address: | rplewis@sbcglobal.net |
| Country: | Good ole U.S.of A. |
| Comment or story: | Greetings all. Sept. 19th 2008. I remember it well. It was the day that the diverticulitus I had, decided to let me know that I had it. Good lord almighty.... I thought I had dealt with pain before. It was the most unbelieveable experience of my 48 years on this earth. After the surgery, and the removal of 13 inches of my bowel, I spent 6 days in the I.C.U. Thankfully, my wife worked in the I.C.U. so I had great care. I had the colostomy for 4 months, and then had the reversal on the 16th of Jan, 2009. With the exception of a couple of infections, which by the way are normal, I am doing great. I had the laproscopic reversal. I would recommend the reversal to anyone contemplating it. Thand for reading. Randy Lewis.
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| Your name: | Rita West |
| E-mail address: | PepeLa3@aol.com |
| Country: | United States |
| Comment or story: | I had colostomy surgery over a year ago and have not had it reversed yet. Does anyone know if there is a time limit on getting it reversed? The timing wasn't right and I am just now getting my weight close to normal. I don't remember the doctor saying anything about a time limit except it couldn't be done before my weight and strength were norman again. Thank you for any information you can give me.
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| Your name: | pault |
| E-mail address: | pault_2006@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | ive read so many stories that resembled my own...i had diverticulitis....had the emergency surgery....woke up with a long scar from my belly button down and a colostomy...spent a week in the hospital and eight weeks out of work...thought my life was over but then realized the alternative would of been much worse....doctor said my colostomy was reversible...wore the bag for seven plus months to allow my bowel to fully heal...i was fully able to deal with the temporary bag...had the reversal and that day couldnt come fast enough...after the reverse surgery i spent four days in the hospital recovering...its been over four weeks now sinse my reversal...i feel great...bowel movements are normal...still some slight discomfort because sometimes it feels like the colostomy is still there...its like with the first surgery...in the beginning it felt like i was going to have a bowel movement like normal...but i knew it wasnt going to come out that end...lol...i do understand that some have problems with reverse surgery...depends on the individual i guess...i was fortunate to have a good esperienced doctor...i didnt have a choice in the beginning...but the same doctor did both my surgerys....and im feeling fine now....would i recommend a reversal???...i surely would....that bag was a pain in the ***....well i should say a pain in my side... |
| Your name: | pault |
| E-mail address: | pault_2006@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | ive read so many stories that resembled my own...i had diverticulitis....had the emergency surgery....woke up with a long scar from my belly button down and a colostomy...spent a week in the hospital and eight weeks out of work...thought my life was over but then realized the alternative would of been much worse....doctor said my colostomy was reversible...wore the bag for seven plus months to allow my bowel to fully heal...i was fully able to deal with the temporary bag...had the reversal and that day couldnt come fast enough...after the reverse surgery i spent four days in the hospital recovering...its been over four weeks now sinse my reversal...i feel great...bowel movements are normal...still some slight discomfort because sometimes it feels like the colostomy is still there...its like with the first surgery...in the beginning it felt like i was going to have a bowel movement like normal...but i knew it wasnt going to come out that end...lol...i do understand that some have problems with reverse surgery...depends on the individual i guess...i was fortunate to have a good esperienced doctor...i didnt have a choice in the beginning...but the same doctor did both my surgerys....and im feeling fine now....would i recommend a reversal???...i surely would....that bag was a pain in the ***....well i should say a pain in my side... |
| Your name: | Diana |
| E-mail address: | sissylil@aol.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had to have a colostomy in Nov. 08. Due to
laprascopic surgery gone bad. I had an ovary removed and my bowel was cut during surgery. I was in the CCU unit for 9 days so over all a 2 week stay. It has been a hard road and is not over yet. I will be having a reversal in acouple of weeks, I am scared because I know there will be pain and it will take time to heal. And I know there are things that can go wrong. But I keep my faith and find my strength through prayer. I know it will not be easy, but what in life is. I always tell myself I can not change what has happened. For this is my journey and it has been put in my path, so all I can do is accept it. To all who have a hard time and are depressed I will pray for you. Keep your head high and always let your feeling be heard for there are people who will listen and can relate and understand. |
| Your name: | Jo-Anne |
| E-mail address: | jdefrenza@sympatico.ca |
| Country: | Canada |
| Comment or story: | Hi, I have had a colostomy for one year and 2 weeks ago had a reversal. I am looking for someone that has had a reversal, as I do have some questions I would like to ask. I understand that everyone is different, but maybe it would help me out. If there is anyone out there that could email me back, I would super appreciate it.
Thanks very much, Jo-Anne |
| Your name: | Bobbie |
| E-mail address: | ponurse2@aol.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I am 58 and have my second colostomy. It is possible in time to have a reversal. I, however, just do not want any more suregry for now. I was in and out of surgery all of 2008. My colostomy was due to a post op infection from a hemmoroidectomy. Infection, fistula with drainage, more infection and now constant UTI's as well.
I would like hearing from gays/lesbians and how they handle relationships, and their partners ,dealing with the bag and all the issues that come with it. Thank you. Bobbie (Illinois) |
| Your name: | Jason |
| E-mail address: | klimpj@hotmail.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | First I want to say sorry to everyone for what they are going through,getting a colostomy is difficult weather it is reversed or not.I was born with hirshsprungs so at birth I had a colostomy, lucky for me it was reversed.Last year the doctors said I had a bowel obstruction,cut me open and found they were wrong,my large bowel was dilated. So they gave me a colostomy again. They said it could be reversed,but a year later they think I should keep it.So I am trying to find the best hospital or doctor to see about the reversal.I do live north of Seattle but will travel the country if I have to.I would appreciate everyones opinion, thankyou. |
| Your name: | georgia norris |
| E-mail address: | georgiagn@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | My mother has Alzheimer's and if she is left alone for anytime, she rips her ostomy bag off. Does anyone know of a device that will prevent her from this behavior?
Thanks georgia |
| Your name: | Charley |
| E-mail address: | charley@hotmail.com |
| Country: | http://hem.passagen.se/mns2002/prednisone/prednisone-ibuprofen.html |
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| Your name: | Joe |
| E-mail address: | joebevan@aol.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | In Sept 08 had a ruptured Colon and had to get emergency colostomy. Was very sick due to infection from the leakage. After 13 days in the hospital I went home. Was told home health would help with learning about my ostomy. I found that the home health folks were very little help with my Ostomy. I called a supply company and had 6 different types of barriers and bags sent. I found a convex barrier and disposable bag to work best for me. On Dec 4 2008 I had a reversal done (just as I felt great) felt kind of dumb going into the hospital feeling well, knowing I would feel awful in a few hours. I think the reversal was more painful than the colostomy. However I am 5 weeks out from surgery now (I thought I would never feel good again) and I am starting to feel normal and my bowel functions have returned to almost normal. I find that I have less "storage" capacity and go a bit more often. But I was blessed with a great MD and a positive outcome. |
| Your name: | betty h |
| E-mail address: | pookw@comcast.net |
| Country: | united states |
| Comment or story: | I HAD A COLOSTOMY 3 YEARS AGO I HAD DIVERTICULITIS
AND I WAS VERY SICK I WAS SEPTIC FROM MY MY COLIN BURSTING INSIDE MY STOMACH AND I BECAME SEPTIC AND THE STOMACH ACID AND THE FECIS ATE MY STOMACH UP IT RESISTED ANTIBIOTICS SO I HAD TO HAVE A COLOSTOMY AND A SKIN GRAPH. NO REVERSAL CAN BE DONE. IM TIRED ALOT, I HAD TWO STROKES I WENT UNDER LIFE SUPPORT FROM THE VERY BEGINNING I WENT OUT I WAS IN THE HOSPITAL FOR 3 MONTHS. IM 56 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE A BAG NOW IT HAS NEVER BEEN EASY TO WEAR ONE FOR ME. ANY COMMENTS BETTY |
| Your name: | Kelly |
| E-mail address: | Kelly.jo@hotmail.co.uk |
| Country: | England |
| Comment or story: | I had a miscarraige in July 2007 at 14 weeks and went into hospital for an erpc. Went back in Sept 2007 and was told I needed another erpc as they had left some products behind. Woke to find that they had perforated my uterus, my rectum and my bowel and they had to open me up to do repairs. 10 days later was taken for an emergency laparotomy where they discovered the repair hadnt held and I had a huge abcess. A transverse loop colostomy was formed to repair and then rest my bowel. In January 2008 I had a reversal and I am now relatively fit and well. Despite my disaster my husband and I are desperate to have a child. My Dr says a pregnancy is not impossible but very high risk. He feels that due to the surgery my bowel is adherant to my uterus and because of my uterus damage I would have to have a c-section. This would mean having to mess with the bowel again and quite frankly im terrified. Has anyone had experince of c-section post colostomy? I would be so grateful for advice or help.. Also if I can answer any questions for people that are earlier on in this process I would be more than happy to help. Many thanks Kelly |
| Your name: | Joanie |
| E-mail address: | jts94@msn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I am not writing about myself but instead for a dear friend who just had a colostomy a month ago. Hers is NOT revisible and she is very depressed about it. One of the main reasons is because she makes gas noises without any control of it and will not go out in public unless it is somewhere she won't run into people she knows. My husband said that she will learn how to "time" her eating so the gas noises can be a bit controlled and she can live a more normal life. Anyone know anything about it and if so.....have you found any patterns to your eating and the gas noises??? PLEASE HELP US. |
| Your name: | Donna |
| E-mail address: | buffa801@rcn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I notice in my stool there is a chalky substance, would anyone know what that might be from? I tried to do some research on it and no luck. Its just small rounded pieces at times. |
| Your name: | Ronaldo Lora |
| E-mail address: | ronald.s.lora@gmail.com |
| Country: | Philippines |
| Comment or story: | I am Ronaldo Lora from the Philippines. I would just like to say that in spite of the colostomy I had for the last 6 years, life has been kind to me. I recently attended the Asian Ostomy Conference in Japan and met a lot of fellow ostomates and friends. I am bringing the work here back in the Philippines to gather ostomates all over the country and form a network and support group. All is not lost after a colostomy surgery. |
| Your name: | sarah |
| E-mail address: | samiboo7@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | i am a 9 year old girl that likes to dance,play with animals,I like to color and draw and my favorite sports are vollyball,basketball,softball,soccer.I live in St.Paul MN.I have three dogs and three cats cyrus,sugar and koda are my dogs and my three cats are dasher,mittens and peaches I love them all lots.Thank you for taking this letter and taking your time up to read this from Sarah Nitti. |
| Your name: | lucy degidon |
| E-mail address: | lucycat1203@yahoo.com |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I think that fellow ostomates should be given more helpful tips about handling colonostopy's, and their aftermath. I found that switching to a drainable pouch for the proceedure was helpful. Now I'm trying to regain my normal bowel consistancey, after taking whatever horrible liquid you take for the proceedure.
Any further tips concerning before and after, would be helpful to me and to others. |
| Your name: | Matt |
| E-mail address: | mp5102@juno.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Back in 2007, I had surgery for diverticulitis and a temp colostomy. My entire mid section is now crooked by the incision (belly button moved over 2 inches). Does anyone have a photo of their surgical incisions? I just want to know if this is normal or not. I would sure appreaciate it.
Matt... |
| Your name: | JB |
| E-mail address: | jbateka2004@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA, PA |
| Comment or story: | I am 60 years old, looking for a single woman with a Colostomy to shear our life and to help each other in it.
I have a temporary Colostomy on the left side, but skeptical to go for reversal after searching for answers and reading the entire problem you are having. Advises and suggestions. None of you can control your bowel movements because… the flora in your stomachs was severely violated due to the surgery and antibiotics, food and alcohol abuse. Problems, toxic components, bad bacteria’s and warms in our system. Solution, detoxication, system cleaning and restoration of your original flora in the stomach. The edible CLAY is the best product in the World that can detoxicate and clean your system in 4-15 days without doing any harm to your body. Organic farm and yogurt from organic milk can restore your flora in the stomach. Control products with sugar, alcohol, fresh veggies and fruits. Milk is bad for us. Learn to eat differently. Portion control - we are not healthy pigs anymore. Dinner, to eat separately a fresh salad, soup and entry - it is not anymore for us. But instead, eat it up like this: one fork of salad, one spun of soup and one fork of entry. You are going to mix it up and that will create an even mass in your stomach. It will help you a lot to control your bowel movements. Eat soft fruits and veggies. It means, steam, boil or saute them up. Example. You can saute the whole salad - it is delicious. But if you have boiled up veggies - save the water with vitamins in it and next morning use it to make an oatmeal. Pill off the apple, shred it up and put one spun of honey if it is sour. Do remember to use larger wholes - it is not a garlic. Keep the communication opened. Good Luck to all of us. JB. |
| Your name: | JB |
| E-mail address: | jbateka2004@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA, PA |
| Comment or story: | I am 60 years old, looking for a single woman with a Colostomy to shear our life and to help each other in it.
I have a temporary Colostomy on the left side, but skeptical to go for reversal after searching for answers and reading the entire problem you are having. Advises and suggestions. None of you can control your bowel movements because… the flora in your stomachs was severely violated due to the surgery and antibiotics, food and alcohol abuse. Problems, toxic components, bad bacteria’s and warms in our system. Solution, detoxication, system cleaning and restoration of your original flora in the stomach. The edible CLAY is the best product in the World that can detoxicate and clean your system in 4-15 days without doing any harm to your body. Organic farm and yogurt from organic milk can restore your flora in the stomach. Control products with sugar, alcohol, fresh veggies and fruits. Milk is bad for us. Learn to eat differently. Portion control - we are not healthy pigs anymore. Dinner, to eat separately a fresh salad, soup and entry - it is not anymore for us. But instead, eat it up like this: one fork of salad, one spun of soup and one fork of entry. You are going to mix it up and that will create an even mass in your stomach. It will help you a lot to control your bowel movements. Eat soft fruits and veggies. It means, steam, boil or saute them up. Example. You can saute the whole salad - it is delicious. But if you have boiled up veggies - save the water with vitamins in it and next morning use it to make an oatmeal. Pill off the apple, shred it up and put one spun of honey if it is sour. Do remember to use larger wholes - it is not a garlic. Keep the communication opened. Good Luck to all of us. JB. |
| Your name: | Lisa Nelson |
| E-mail address: | kent2416@comcast.net |
| Country: | usa |
| Comment or story: | I have a colostomy for a year and a half now. I have had 2 bowel resects from diverticulitus. I am awaiting a reversal surgery but keep getting fluid collections. I am on antibiotics and am wearing a drain tube plus the bag. I am very depressed but work hard everyday to keep positive. I pray everyday to stop getting these infections so I can have my reversal.Any comments or is anybody out there going through this? |
| Your name: | Susan |
| E-mail address: | elaine1255@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had emergency colon surgery on Sept.23, 2008 by a general surgeon...all that was available in my hospital where they had tried treating me with tons of antibiotics for about a week for diverticulitis. I now have a colostomy that the dr. says is reversable. I have an appt. with a colorectal surgeon this month to get his opinion on when to do the reversal. I have had one nightmare after the other trying to wear the wafer and bag. I have serverely sensitive skin and the thing just won't stick. I'm now wearing a baby diaper taped over my stoma. I was reading on line about reversal surgeries and saw where they may can be done laproscopically. Anyone had that done. What ever type of reversal you have had, please let me know how it worked out for you. I'm hoping the general surgeon didn't mess me up so that it can't be reversed. |
| Your name: | nathan |
| E-mail address: | dogsfan_y2k@yahoo.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had a bad issue about two years with a bad doctor when I got a scope and he tore part of my colon I had to get a colostomy emergency style which really sucked I spent over 8 weeks in the hospital the amount of infection I had blew my gall bladder as well I had to get that removed so I have a coloctomy with no gall bladder so it really sucks but now after problem after problem I can get my reversal this coming Tuesday I am scared but the good news is the same Dr. who did the first colostomy will do the reversal I have teh fears of will I go out in public and eat ever again if anyone as recently had a reversal please let me know how it went and how you are I figure it can't be as bad as having a bag I can't ski ,hunt,swim,ride rises,or play with my kids as much as I would like Thank God I can have a reversal for those who can't life will not be that bad I promise and you will adjust never loose hope and keep ypu family and friends close to you and DO NOT GET OR FEEL ASHAMED YOU DID CAUSE THIS TO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Your name: | Brandi |
| E-mail address: | chickpea101@hotmail.com |
| Country: | NovaScotia |
| Comment or story: | Iam 33 years old.I went in the hospital in June to have a cyst removed from my ovaries..Doc cut my bowel..thought he repaired it 4 days later I had surgery again and ended up with a colostomy!What a nightmare at first I was scared and very annoyed,after about a month I was feeling great and looking forward to the reversal..This I had one week ago..Well now I feel like crap:(( Have a hard time with food,cramps,and am depressed all over again..please tell me it will get better..everyone said the reversal would be a piece of cake!! |
| Your name: | Joy |
| E-mail address: | santanaski@tx.rr.com |
| Country: | U.S.A. |
| Comment or story: | I had Emergency Surgery In January, 2008 due to Diverticulitis -- I went into the ER Room in Severe Pain. I knew I had Diver. but it really never bothered me until then. A Specialist In Diviticulis Surgery performed the surgery and I woke up with a "BAG"> Of course, I was in total shock, but the Dr. reasured me that a Reversal was entirely Possible in three months. I am a healthy Senior Citizen--- So, In May of this year I had the Reversal by A Top Specialist in this area ( I can't emphasize enough the importance of getting the Best Surgeon in your area) My Dr. was advertised in The Best Dr. Magazine. Anyway, my Reversal went fine -- (pain, yes) Was it worth it ???? Yes, Yes, and Yes. I am now leading a normal life with NO more problems. Plese get the Best Surgeon in your State or Country to perform this surgery --- That to me is the answer to all the questions on this Web Site. Good Luck to All of you -- Please Email me if you have any questions. |
| Your name: | Joy Hitt |
| E-mail address: | santanaski@tx.rr.com |
| Country: | U.S.A. |
| Comment or story: | I had Emergency Surgery In January, 2008 due to Diverticulitis -- I went into the ER Room in Severe Pain. I knew I had Diver. but it really never bothered me until then. A Specialist In Diviticulis Surgery performed the surgery and I woke up with a "BAG"> Of course, I was in total shock, but the Dr. reasured me that a Reversal was entirely Possible in three months. I am a healthy Senior Citizen--- So, In May of this year I had the Reversal by A Top Specialist in this area ( I can't emphasize enough the importance of getting the Best Surgeon in your area) My Dr. was advertised in The Best Dr. Magazine. Anyway, my Reversal went fine -- (pain, yes) Was it worth it ???? Yes, Yes, and Yes. I am now leading a normal life with NO more problems. Plese get the Best Surgeon in your State or Country to perform this surgery --- That to me is the answer to all the questions on this Web Site. Good Luck to All of you -- Please Email me if you have any questions. |
| Your name: | Donna |
| E-mail address: | buffa801@rcn.com |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | Just a little hint for all you ostomates for disposal of your ostomy things after use. I purchased a diaper genie to throw away soiled things. Works great till you empty your regular garbage. |
| Your name: | Virginia |
| E-mail address: | gdimola@charter.net |
| Country: | USA |
| Comment or story: | I had an emergency colonoscopy preformed on July 24, 2008. Prior to surgery, they tried to treat me with massive doses of antibiotics, but it went from bad to worse. Emergency surgery was preformed ,one week after admittance, and I spent 4 days in ICU and another 10 days in the hospital. The recovery was a slow process both physicallly and mentally, but as with most challanges we adjust over time. Now that I am scheduled for the reveral December 1st, I decided to do some research and came across this site. Some of the stories seem somewhat frightening to me and I would like to hear about some positive outcomes for reversals. It was my understanding that the second surgery is not as difficult in terms of recovery, but those are not the impressions I am gleaning from this site. Any information on recovery would be emensely helpful. Thanks so much |