My first, possibly only, blog. Thought I might share my experience of having a hernia repair. I have a Urostomy, since Sept. 2010, and the hernia came about 4 months later. As I have stated before, my surgeon called it a "mother of a hernia." It was probably the size of a softball (I use the analogy of a softball as a deference to our American cousins instead of 'cricket ball'). The operation was carried out about 10 days ago and, as I came to in recovery, they decided to move me to another hospital owing to bed shortages. So, 2 hours after the op, I am bundled into an ambulance and hit the road. First, we have to drop off another passenger at another facility which didn't bother me too much as I'm away with the fairies. Then the ambulance took a wrong turn and we traveled the wrong way for 1/2 hour. Finally, I arrive at the destination, get settled into bed, and then I notice I am wearing a colostomy bag and not a urostomy bag. Nowhere to plug into my night bag. Had to then change bags, fit wafer and new bag from my own emergency kit, and supply my own night bag. Asked ward nurse if she wanted to help me change bags, etc. She was a first year and did not want to go near it! Luckily, my wife was handy to help out. The next morning, I was told I am fit to go home and to please vacate by 10 a.m.! They must have thought it's every person's dream to linger in the hospital! However, the hernia has, so far, been fixed and is a lot more comfortable. The first 7 days were painful but gradually now coming back to normal. The op scar is about 6 inches long but neat and tidy. I am finding it easier to walk, etc., and it doesn't catch on objects like before. Positive so far.

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Bill
MEETANOSTOMATE REVIEW.
I’d like to write a nice review
that might express something quite new.
Then I read previous points of view,
which said the things I wanted to.
I would endorse the things I’ve read
about what other folks have said,
for these are the benefits and things
that joining a site like this can bring.
When I was an initiate, (novice)
it seemed to be appropriate
to express myself in rhyme
as this is how I spend my time.
When contemplating what to write
with contributing to this site,
it seemed to me, my ostomy
could be expressed in poetry.
Thus, when I had something to say,
a rhyme, for me seemed the best way,
for rhymes can often capture stuff
that prose don’t capture quite enough.
I do appreciate the way,
this site lets people have their say
in whatever mode they will
about the things that make them ill.
There are not many forums for
discussing stuff most folks abhor.
So, this site fulfils a small niche,
where angst and problems can unleash.
Where raw emotions can decant,
so, folks feel free to have a rant,
and we can all associate
is something I appreciate.
B. Withers 2021
Explore common concerns about new and existing relationships, and how to put your mind at ease.
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