Good morning
There are a lot of new ostomates joining or thinking about it. Many feel alone. How do I know? Because I have felt the same way.
Some may post and some may be shy, afraid of being judged. Well, for sure there are many that won't judge you.
You may feel like there are those that had their ostomies so long they don't care. Not so, many do!
There is so much knowledge here because each one that is an ostomate has a story with experience.
Keep in mind, what works for some might not work for others. Every one of our digestive systems is different.
Many had a colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. Each one can tell their story of what they went through—thus, you put all that together, much knowledge.
I have a colostomy in which I can irrigate. Now listen, it doesn't work for everyone. So if you try and it doesn't work, it's just your system. We all differ.
By the way, I'm one that can't go 24 to 48 hours as some of my fellow ostomates. Periodically it works, not daily, and yes, I wear a pouch.
Many have families yet feel alone. I get it, I was there too. Initially, I was frightened to go out for fear of leaks, perhaps even shame.
I have experienced humiliation out in public, in the beginning after surgery. I survived!
Did I ever have a mess where I had to change my bedding? Absolutely, on occasions it still happens. Thank goodness it's in my home.
Did my skin become irritated sometimes? Yes, of course, and it still does. Look, if your poop eats through the rubber, surely it will affect your skin.
On the same note, there are many that differ in when they change their equipment. You have to do what's best for you as an individual.
Of course, our bodies are different. Some have their buttocks sewn shut and some don't. I didn't, however, I do pass mucus, which is old residue.
Was it frightening when it first happened? Why yes, of course. It still occurs periodically, more than I would like it to happen.
You may even have to empty more than others. Wow, it was so easy going to the bathroom 1 to 2 times a day, and now it seems like it never ends.
You're not alone...
Do I have answers for everything? Heck no... But I can tell you what I've been through and maybe it will help...
Those that are struggling because of this surgery, you're not alone. Learn all that you can. Remember, each one of us is different, so don't beat yourself up.
Hang in there!
Angelicamarie
