Hi from Ubrique, sunny Spain.
My partner had the same experience as you, except thankfully we are residents in Spain, Andalucia. We came before Brexit, so healthcare is covered. We initially lived in Jerez but moved to the mountains for more outdoor space and to get away from the maddening crowds during festivals and the tourists.
My partner is recovering slowly and is accepting the ups and downs that living with a stoma brings. We are both in our mid-70s and I retired from my work as a carer abroad to support her while she recovers. The surgery kept her bedbound and due to other health issues very weak and malnourished.
As well as terminal cancer, the side effects of the drugs are debilitating. The oncologist has prescribed a nutrition drink, Fresubin, which has all the nutrients to replace what is lacking in your diet.
I can tell you, as I have been with her constantly throughout her difficult recovery, unable to walk, low energy and motivation, that it will take time. The body will reconnect with what it needs to do, and slowly you will begin to gain the independence you once had. Small steps, small miracles each day! Don't give up, you will pull through.
If you ever need a place to stay to recoup, we have a small apartment you can have. We live in such a beautiful part of southern Spain and the vistas of the mountains are healing in themselves.
We go back and forth to our appointments in Jerez, which is just over an hour, and our stoma nurse and doctors have been wonderful. We have been most fortunate to have had such excellent care from all the healthcare professionals and our local health center. We have had numerous misfortunes with the ileostomy leaking, but she has a new system now, and it is working.
Also, living in a small town, we get appointments quicker and our pharmacy has been great. The ostomy bags and wafers are free; we pay for the accessories, barrier spray, and strips. Sometimes we get freebies from our nurse.
You will gradually adjust to life; it's not easy. For months we were sleep-deprived and consumed with everything related to the ileostomy. It's always going to be our first priority, but it gets easier, thanks to this group and all the helpful comments.
Onwards and upwards!💃