I don't know how I got to be 72. One day I was 32 and next 72. I've had my ileostomy more than half my life. I had no one to talk to then in the same position. No internet. The thing I looked forward to most was the monthly edition of the ia magazine. I went straight to the back where I could read the letters from subscribers. Not many but I was intrigued to hear their stories and problems. I mostly haven't had any problems (incidents I can laugh about now) apart from three years ago when my intestine burst. in 1986 my hospital had to bring a surgeon down from London to do my op. I could choose the position and he was spot on. I never had time to think about it but he saved my life enabling me to continue raising my two young daughters.
Anyway I just wanted to say I love life and am grateful I have made it so far and hope to have at least another 20 years.