Connecting with Others Who Have Ulcerative Colitis

Heya, I want to talk to new people in the same or similar situations as I don't know anyone yet. I've had ulcerative colitis for a couple of years and had my first surgery for my J-pouch a couple of months ago. I have an ileostomy at the moment.
Please feel free to contact me.

Hey nzbaybii,

You've come to the right place! This community is full of supportive folks who understand what you're going through and are always ready to share their experiences and advice.

Having an ileostomy after J-pouch surgery is a big change, and it's completely normal to want to connect with others who get it. Many here have been through similar journeys and can offer insights on everything from recovery tips to managing daily life. Don't hesitate to ask questions or share your story—everyone's here to help each other out.

With thousands of members on this site, you can use the search feature to find people nearby or those who are around your age. It might be comforting to chat with someone who truly understands your situation. Take care!

I'm so sorry that happened to you honey.  I have limited contact abilities until Friday when I pay the site but at least I can post here

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  I've had my ostomy since I was ten so I've definitely been around every situation with it all these years.  If you ever have any questions, ask away.

Feel free to ask away! Since this is all new to you, you may still be embarrassed to ask certain questions in a public forum. One of the many good things about this forum is the diverse group of people, so just pick someone you feel matches your situation and you can always ask questions privately.



That being said, I'm sure you will find a wide variety of questions asked and answered here. You are certainly in good company here and everyone is willing to help. So relax and jump in feet first, you'll feel right at home

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Hey, just chat away! My door is always open—oh, and welcome to the site!

I had my operation 2 months ago and have an ileostomy. I am just looking for people to chat with too. Please feel free to get back to me. Stay strong.

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

I have had my ileo since July 08, but I'm not much help as I am one of the lucky ones who has no problems with the bag. My surgery was good, no pain at all, lost all my rear section, use the same one-piece bag from Convatec that I first used in the hospital (using the same clip), adhesive remover, skin prep, cut the hole to the right size, stick it on and am good for 4-7 days. I have had to change my wardrobe somewhat, but I have always worn casual clothing most of the time and my stoma blends right in. Life is different, but still good, and always remember that any day "above ground" is better than the alternative. Have a good day. If I can help you in any way, let me know.

Hello, if you ever need any help or just want someone to talk to, then feel free to message me.

To make it funny, my friend's youngest son calls it my "diaper." If you want an honest answer, ask a young kid; you will get a laugh. And I have to change my diaper up to 3 times a day depending on the weather and how much bending, twisting, and all the fun stuff you do during a day. This is my second colostomy and it's permanent since January of '09.

I call mine my airbag and it deploys too often. The only thing I have found that sticks well is Hollister products because the wafer is very flexible.

I also wear Hollister 15024 wafers. I like the two-part; they are the only ones to last up to 17 hours if I just sit around and play on the computer. To secure it to last the longest, use 2 wax rings, paste, and cold weather.

I am also a new person who has taken baby steps with the site. Partly this is because I am scheduled to have a permanent colostomy August 3rd (had a temp. iliostomy a few years ago) so feel..like not quite a member of the club yet. It is hard for me to read responses from people who "hate" the bag. I have tried everything in the world like so many people here and there isn't any other option. I am trying hard at being optimistic and believing my life will change for the better.

Ok, life is hard... but life is good... Remember, there are many folks in the cemetery who would love to trade places. Going to repost this poem... It's a bit unpolished, but the message shines through... You can overcome hardship... but YOU must make the DECISION that you WILL DO IT!!! God bless

Let's not forget that life is dear

Just because we got no rear!!

We can still love and play

Thank you, God, for another day

I'll stand up straight, like a man

I'll show the world, oh yes I can

I will not whimper, never cry

If I fail, again I'll try

Life will test your very mettle

For second best, I will not settle

I'll be the best that I can be

Others are watching, what will they see

Don't let them see that you'll give in

Remember always, who dares... wins

Hey there, welcome to our little club/community!
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I know what you're going through. I had UC in '93-'94, went through all 3 ops. Now I've been blessed once again with Crohn's. I hope this doesn't happen to you or anyone else. Truly blessed with both of these God-forsaken diseases. The weird part was getting potty trained after all of it. Oh, and staying away from spicy foods—nothing like fire going out your caboose... OOOOOOUCH!!!!
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Anyway, I had to wear the bag for 11 months before going back to normal. Are you a lifetime member? I am now, as the Crohn's took its toll on me. Adapt & adjust and keep the whole thing moving! I have become a lifetime member as of 3-30-09 and have learned a lot, especially from my angel (E.T. nurse). If you need to bend an ear, give me a wink.
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I've read in a few posts about people wearing Hollister appliances. I've been wearing the simple Hollister 3228 since surgery 16 years ago. I've tried other types but they don't work for me. So I have to change it once a day, no big deal.

I am grateful for my surgery. I can eat all kinds of food now and I'm very rarely sick. I don't advertise my ileostomy, but it has not held me back. I just thank God that there is a surgery for UC and Crohn's. One unfortunate aspect of Crohn's: now that my intestines are gone, arthritis is rearing its ugly head. But I'm tackling it early on so I still see a bright future.