Not Always Okay

Lilmesican

May 12, 2020 8:42 am

I had my surgery on April 1, 2016, April Fool's Day. Each time I tell the story, I mention how I was hoping the doctor would come out and tell me it was a joke. That I didn't need the surgery... Psyche!!! That didn't happen.

After complications with radiation for anal cancer, a colostomy was the better option. It was the best decision. It has made my life better. I would have been wearing diapers for the rest of my life. It was a good decision.

Why doesn't it always feel that way?

There are still days when I get out of the shower and look in the mirror and feel broken. Not that the surgery slowed me down. The opposite, I'm busier than ever. Growing professionally. Life is good.

I am grateful. I am blessed. I am succeeding. I am perfect.

I am also okay admitting that not every day feels perfect. I am also okay not pretending that it is. I'm not always okay.

Login to see image

4 likes

xnine

May 12, 2020 12:41 pm

It is OK to not be OK. Some days are just harder than others. Just something I received on Facebook that caught my eye. From an old blog of mine

MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,410 members.

“I found real people, real humor, and answers I couldn’t get anywhere else.”

“The support here impressed my husband’s medical team - they plan to recommend it.”

“This community saved me when I thought I was a freak. Now I’m thriving.”

“Thank god for this site - I finally knew what to ask my surgeon.”

Join Free

NewlifeVictoria

Dear Everyone 😊🙏🏻☮️❤️👼😊🌈☀️🌹🤗👩🏻☀️
Hello! Hope your all, having a great start of your day! I have to say this place has been helpful in many ways and the people here, seem very real and mostly helpful in anyway! I usually don't bother anyone really and try to figure out different things on my own, but that is with common sense, but with experience definitely helps and I read stories and I have my own stories and it's been so much and it's nice to have friends here, who understand same kind of situation 😊
I think it's great when people help each other and who is helpful in different ways! I appreciate anything advice etc... Thank you all and very happy this site is here ! I hope you have a good day/night! I'm trying to figure out how to take care of me more then I used to as I think of others more then myself! I'm hoping your all having a great summer! Let's all help more and give a high 5 and all help and get together! 😊☮️❤️😊🌈☀️🌧
Victoria

Maried

May 12, 2020 1:46 pm

Remember your ostomy is only a small part of what you are and just enjoy life.
I have had mine for many years. It was strange in the beginning, and this has been my new normal, and I agree, far better than pooping in your pants!

4 Common Convex Ostomy Skin Barrier Myths

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.

aprangn

May 12, 2020 2:39 pm

I feel Ya. However, I love road trips without having to sit on nasty public toilets, etc...

lovely

May 12, 2020 7:55 pm

Like xnine said it is OK to not be OK sometimes. I think a lot of us feel that way at times. It may not be the ideal situation but it is better than the alternative. Just hang in there and stay safe.

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

warrior

May 13, 2020 3:52 am

To be able to put yourself out there and make these comments shows that you are, in fact, okay, dude. Strong, brave. Don't kid yourself. You did good. You look good. You know, some days you're the hydrant, when other days you're the dog. Get it? :)

Lilmesican

Jun 06, 2020 6:39 pm

Thank you so much for all the kind words. I've learned in my almost 50 years that feelings and emotions will come and go.
I'm working on a series of interviews with other ostomates.
If you are interested in telling your story or being part of a panel get in touch.
danielggarza@lilmesicanproductions.com
:)