Jenny, Nichole, I have had an ileostomy for 8 years. I want to share my story, hopefully to assure you both that life will go on, and we do find ways to cope. So here it goes: I had just turned 50, I had a lot of upper bowel pain, it turned out to be cancer of the transverse colon and a cancerous polyp in the lower part of the colon. They removed all of the colon except the rectum and connected the two parts back together. I had a respiratory arrest. This was the last of May. My husband of 32 years, who I adored, died in August of a sudden heart attack. In December of the same year, I was having a routine check of the surgery site by colonoscopy, and the cancer was back again. I was informed it was a very aggressive type of cancer. And to be honest, I had no desire at that time to live; my husband's death had devastated me. The only reason I had my last surgery was for my son; it would leave him without a mother or father at the same time. He was struggling so hard with his father's death. So I had the surgery and went on. Man, it is so hard sometimes, but I think just knowing you're not alone helps. That's why I do a lot of teaching & sharing with people who have new ostomies or the diagnosis of cancer. Maybe that's why I lived; I don't know, but it seems right. Thanks for reading my story. The very best to you both!
eddie
🔒 Login to see image
Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 37,000 members who truly understand you.
It's not all about ostomy. We talk about everything.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even found love. Most importantly, people here are honest and genuinely care.
🛑 Privacy is very important - we have many features that are only visible to members, ensuring a safe and secure environment for you to share and connect.
Create an account and you will be amazed by the warmth of this community.
Advertisement
Hollister
Many factors can affect the frequency of your pouching system changes, including your stoma type.
Learn what impacts wear time and how you can extend it.
Learn what impacts wear time and how you can extend it.
Advertisement
Hollister
In addition to your pouching system, you may require the use of an ostomy accessory to enhance the performance of your system.
Learn more about ostomy accessories, and when to use them.
Learn more about ostomy accessories, and when to use them.