Our bodies do not define who we are

I came as close to death as was possible when my appendix exploded and my abdomen was filled with infection for 2 days before I arrived at the emergency room. By God's grace, I survived. There were 23 loved ones reciting the rosary for me in the visitors' lounge. I attribute my survival to those prayers. I am now faced with the decision as to whether I should have a reversal done in order to free myself from the ileostomy bag. I am leaning towards not having the reversal. I have a good quality of life. I can pretty much eat whatever I want. I will not experience constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and the need to wear Depends. Our bodies were not meant to last forever, and for the last 61 years, my body has served me faithfully. I am content with my quality of life and I am quite hesitant to take a chance on the risks of the surgery and the aftermath. I believe we are all spiritual beings experiencing life in a human body, and that someday, when we cross over to the next life, we will be given new bodies, eternal ones. So I live with gratitude in my heart because to me, each day is a precious gift that I might not have had, should my surgeon not have been so wonderful in saving my life. I do not experience low self-esteem as some do, as my body does not define who I am. My purpose here is not over and I am focused on the remaining good I can do for others while I am still here. I am happy. Life will never be quite the same, but that's okay. :-)

Hi cindy6319,Thank you for your post....so eloquently written. I feel very much the same way you do, and like you said Life will never be quite the same, but that's ok. Life will be different....dare I say better? I'm at peace with the choice I've made, to not have the reversal. :)

Amen~ Great post Cindy! These bodies are but temporary, but our Spirit will live on. For me each passing day is a Blessing and brings new things. Life is never the same.

Don't ever let your bag define you. It's just a bit you'd rather do without, but... hey ho, you're alive, so just live.

Same happened to me

My Ostomy Journey: Kimberly | Hollister

So pleased to see that there are others who really feel the love of life and the beauty of each day---depression cannot rear its ugly menace if you just remember to praise each thing. There is a purpose for everything, and we never know when we can make a difference in another's life. Merry, wonderful, awesome Christmas to all of you...