Living with an Ostomy Bag and Embracing Life

I also went through a traumatic experience when my bowel ruptured.

It almost cost me my life; it was touch and go for 6 days.

I came round 6 days after my op, and was horrified to find this bag stuck on my stomach.

I yelled and screamed in shock, not knowing what I had woken up to.

I just wanted to rip it off.

It took 3 months for me to have the strength to walk without the aid of my carer, and another 12 months before I felt strong enough to consider a reversal.

When the time came for me to make the decision to have the reversal, I had long consultations with my surgeon, who advised me that the reversal is not always successful and that it would take quite a while for me to get back on my feet after surgery.

I decided not to go ahead with the surgery and accept living with the bag for the rest of my life, which was not an easy decision.

I have never felt better since my recovery, no more passing out when going to the loo with pain.

It hasn't affected my life; I go swimming and have no hang-ups about wearing a bather.

I count my blessings that I am still alive and not pushing up the daisies.

I do get problems now and then with explosions and leakage, but that is nothing compared to the pain I suffered before my surgery.

I think the best advice I can offer is to have a positive mental attitude towards the bag as it doesn't matter where the waste expels itself from our body as long as it does.

I do not have a problem with having the surgery now; I have accepted it and got on with my life.

I hope this gives encouragement to you, and enjoy your life.

Please talk to me, I won't bite, honest
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Jean

Well Jean, it seems you have a pretty good handle on life after what you went through. As tough as it is, the life-saving and quality of life are what we make of it, not always an easy chore. Thinking about the alternative once in a while helps us cope. Stay healthy, Ed

PS: My surgeon said the same thing to me, Baggies Forever!

Hi Ed

Many thanks for your reply.

It has been the help of friends and family that has pulled me through a most traumatic time in my life.

It took quite a long time to get back on my feet, but I made it, which is the important thing.

I never think about my pouch when I am out and about; I get on with my life as if it weren't there.

I am reminded (of course) LOL, when it needs to be changed, but that is small fry compared to what we have all been through.

Take care

Jean