Hello, I'm new. I will make the story short. I have an immune disorder: psoriasis, arthritis, collagenous colitis. I'm 60 and move around pretty well, but 15 years of gut pain, accidents, and running to the bathroom 12 times a day led me to make the decision to have my colon removed 5 months ago in NY by surgeon Fenza Remzi. All in all, I would say life is better now than it was. No more gut cramps, running to the bathroom, and the stress is better. The bag is not a perfect world. 50% of the time I don't know it's there; 50% it can be a pain in the a--. The big question: Surgery for J-pouch construction is set for April, stage 2. Do I leave good enough alone or go for it? And how about the surgeon? Does anyone have experience with him? The first surgery was tough for me, but I bounced back in 3 months. I would love your suggestions. Thank you.

MeetAnOstoMate.org is the only place where people truly understand you. It's because everyone here has an ostomy.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even built long-lasting relationships.
Privacy is very important - there are many features only visible to members.
Join our website with 39,369 members. You won't regret it.
Advertisement
Hollister
Resuming your personal and work life after ostomy surgery can be challenging to adjust to a new life.
Learn ways to adjust to life after ostomy surgery.
Learn ways to adjust to life after ostomy surgery.
Advertisement
Hollister
As a student, there are easy ways you can prepare ahead and manage an ostomy while you are at school.
Read answers to frequently asked questions about how to change your pouch and participate in activities.
Read answers to frequently asked questions about how to change your pouch and participate in activities.