Needing Hope To Get Me Through Tough Times

smeans59 · 2023-08-21T13:44:10-04:00

I am 10 days post colostomy surgery, and I am really struggling. I am also battling ovarian cancer and thought I was doing really well until I ended up with a bowel blockage. I am used to being very active and now have another obstacle to overcome. My blockage was high in my colon so my ostomy is above my belly button on the left side. Basically, it's impossible to hide. I'm a golfer and they tell me I will be able to play in 6-8 weeks. I'm thinking I'll need to get a wrap or something to hold it in place and disguise it a little. I'm still dealing with the vanity issue and will have to buy a lot of new clothes. I know I'm rambling, but I just need to put it out there. Physically, I'm feeling better - I walked a mile today, but emotionally I'm struggling. I am happy to be alive, and feel better than prior to surgery, but I'm at the this really sucks stage. Any encouragement from someone that's been in my shoes will help.

Needing Hope to Get Me Through Tough Times

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7dragonflies.hm

Sep 04, 2023 6:27 pm

I know the emotional stuff you're talking about. This really changes one. I've had my little friend for about 5 months. Nearly died from infection due to perforated colon, good ol' diverticulitis. I'd been sick for a year, living on antibiotics. Anyway, lucky to be alive. But still.

Sorry to ramble. As far as clothes go, I've bought a lot of jumpsuits/rompers. They tend to conceal it pretty decent. I also bought a head wrap, like a tube top type thing, it works pretty good actually.

Hang in there, you are not alone.

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BSUWOMAN45

Jul 20, 2024 3:52 pm

I had an emergency bowel obstruction surgery back in March. I also have spina bifida and use a wheelchair. My stoma is on my left side as well and higher. So, I just had to buy underwear that I could wear either over the whole bag or at my waist in the middle to make it comfortable. I also really have not worn regular pants or jeans because the weather got nice where I was, so I've spent the summer in dresses and skirts. But for the most part, people who don't know I have the colostomy can't ever see it under my clothes, but I also don't wear tight clothing because it's just not comfortable for me in my wheelchair.

So I hope maybe the suggestions will help you feel more comfortable.

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