Done, I am now an ostomate. I am home with very little pain. I am walking but do tire quickly. Not much of an appetite, but I try to eat in small snippets.
Prior to surgery, my wife talked to the surgeon about preserving the prostate nerves so we could hopefully have near-normal sex going forward. He did, but he cautioned us after surgery it cost him time and me blood. The loss of blood took me completely out for over 2 days. But, with 3 transfusions, I finally felt a little alive on Monday.
I got the pathology report as I was checking out. I am now cancer-free. Thanks for all the thoughts and well wishes. It's all about healing and living from here on out.

This is a remarkable community of 40,911 members.
You will get real advice from fellow ostomates who truly understand you - things you won't find in the books.
And it's not all about ostomy - there is friendship and relationships too.
Privacy is very important - your profile is not visible to the outside world.
HenryM
If I was a relative newbie with an ostomy, I have no doubt that this site would be very helpful to me. The members are quick to respond to questions and issues and they are filled with experience. When I joined, I already had a lifetime with an ostomy, so I just regard it as a place to meet and communicate with other folks similarly situated. Either way, it is a good site.
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Hollister
Your stoma care nurse can be a valuable resource when you need help.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.
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Hollister
Ostomy surgery is stressful both for the patient and the caregiver, and creates a major life change for both people in a relationship.
Learn how to care for your loved one, while still taking care of yourself.
Learn how to care for your loved one, while still taking care of yourself.