Adjusting to Life After Colostomy Surgery

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935
Pati49
Dec 16, 2024 2:18 pm

My surgery with resulting colostomy was on May 19, 2024. Going on 7 months now and just starting to feel I’m settling into a new routine. The IAI (intra abdominal infection), plus gas & some bleeding seems to be finally letting up. I’ve used abdominal acupressure, Reiki, and diet changes to readjust to the new routing of my colon. Also, have needed to use Ducolax (liquid) to keep stools soft. It’s been a challenge and a new daily routine, but I’m doing ok now as I begin to focus a little more on getting some exercise.

Some may wonder why it has taken so long. I’m 75 now and had a preexisting condition of FMS/CFS & RA before this unexpected colon blockage that sent me to ER last May. I knew I had severe diverticulosis then but did not foresee what it would lead to.

Glad to report that I’m finally getting past it and hope for continual improvements as time goes on. Thanks for the forum to express a journey that only osteomates would care to hear about. Blessings to you all ❤️‍🩹🙏.

ron in mich
Dec 16, 2024 2:23 pm

Hi Pati, thanks for the positive story on this dreary Monday morning. It takes time to find the new normal along with the healing and what foods work best for you.

Justbreathe

MeetAnOstoMate website turned out to be a lifesaver for me. I say this because, for me, this ostomy journey was a devastating event both physically and mentally.
Here, I found folks who understood my feelings even better than my family or friends could. Only a fellow ostomate can understand how you really feel.

Information sharing is key, as well as support and understanding, to ultimately bring more harmony into our ostomy life journey. I found here, virtually no ostomy questions that are not touched upon. Questions which some might feel, may be too trivial to contact a doctor about or even too shy or embarrassed to ask their own doctor about. They are all addressed here.

For me, anonymity was very helpful in seeking answers to each phase of this life changing medical and mental event. Sharing initial trauma feelings, ongoing support and finally acceptance was what I found with my membership here. I am not sure what my mental and physical attitude would be today without having found this site.

Additional benefits included: finding products and ideas to help with daily maintenance, innovative ideas and as a bonus - some great humor.
After all “laughter IS the best medicine”.

I have been a member for 3 years, an ostomate for 4 years - yes, I certainly wish I would have found it immediately after surgery but so very thankful I finally found it when I did as I truly believe it turned my troubled depression and situation into a more positive attitude and acceptance.

Sincerely,
An Ileostomate nicknamed Justbreathe 🫶🏼

Morning glory
Dec 16, 2024 2:30 pm

Hi Pati, your positive  feedback  is such great news. I am glad you are doing well.

oldtimer
Dec 16, 2024 3:26 pm

I am glad for you, and just in time for Christmas!  Let this good news continue through the new year.

TerryLT
Dec 17, 2024 10:24 pm

Hi Pati,  It sounds like you are adjusting well, and I don't think seven months is a long time, especially with your added medical issues.  I'm glad you found our group and hope you will become a regular contributor. Welcome!

Terry

 

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IGGIE
Dec 18, 2024 1:25 pm

G-Day Pati49, 

I am so happy for you that things are working out for you. Positive thinking can make anything work. 

Regards IGGIE

Queenie
Dec 19, 2024 2:53 pm

Hi Pati49

Really great that you came through the op and are coping so positively. I had mine on May 17th, I think, and the joy of not having intense pain and sepsis on a loop is so so wonderful. 

I hope things continue to improve for you, it's wonderful to have suggestions of other self help ideas! I'm struggling with Christmas, chocolates and mince pies right now! Looking forward to boiled veg and poached eggs post Santa!

Best regards

terrizajdel
Dec 23, 2024 1:07 pm

Hi Pati49, congratulations on your progress! Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Terri