Ileostomy Experience: Not Fun, But Life-Changing for the Better

Hello,

I am new to this site, and I am so very happy to have found it. I looked for one like this 2 years ago before my surgery. It was really frustrating. I couldn't seem to find the information I was looking for. I had no clue what to expect. Now it's over, and I am healthier than ever, and not in pain for the first time. I had my surgery 2 years ago, and I now have an ileostomy. I can't say it's fun, but it's much better than what I was going through. I just go on with life and refuse to let it get me down. I have told my ostomy nurse as well as my doctor that if someone preparing for this needs someone to talk to, I would be there for them. Neither of them has called, so I guess they just thought I was strange or nuts to be happy about it. I have told them both that I'm sure it's not normal to have someone say, "It's the best thing that has ever happened to me." They just looked at me funny and said they were glad I accepted it so well. I decided that since I do feel so much better, I need to just deal with the bag and not let it get me down. If you try to find the good in every situation life puts you in, it sure is easier than trying to fight it or spend your energy complaining about something you can't change. If life gives you lemons, you make lemonade; if life gives you a bag...just change it as needed.

I would love to find someone to talk to about this life challenge we are sentenced to. Even when you keep a positive attitude, there are still things to talk about.

So far, I have dated one man since the surgery. He was very good about dealing with this. Too bad he can't seem to deal with the other parts of life (normal everyday stuff). I gave up on him. I was worried that if he had a real problem, he would really lose it... anyway...

I saw a gentleman's profile on here...he is from New Orleans...he is concerned about dating and other aspects of living with a bag. I hope he sees this and emails. I know where he is coming from. Since I too am single, it can be a bit scary to date and deal with this thing. I wonder if I just got lucky(?) the way my last date understood, but life goes on, and I really do NOT want to spend it alone. If anyone wants to discuss this, let me know.

For now, take care, and smile...it could be worse... and it's got to get better.

Janice

I really think it is strange that the doctor and nurse thought you were weird. My nurse asked me to visit people who were going in for the surgery as she thought my attitude was so great!! I, too, am so much better off since having the surgery. Of course, dealing with the bag is not always wonderful, but it sure beats ulcerative colitis and all the meds that I was on, always looking for the bathroom and hoping I would make it in time. I, too, would like to meet someone who could be a companion and do fun things with me. I am always ready to talk to you.