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. :-)
MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,403 members.
“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”
“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”
“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”
“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”
Sasquatch
MeetAnOstoMate is an awesome group of people, going through similar issues. There is always someone who has information to contribute. I've been a basic member for years, just now decided to bump up to premium. Huge wealth of knowledge and support here, these people are great.
Advertisement
Hollister
A convex ostomy skin barrier can help prevent output leakage and skin issues. Unfortunately, some misconceptions about convexity may keep people with ostomies from using it.
Learn about convexity and 4 myths surrounding it.
Learn about convexity and 4 myths surrounding it.


