Seeking a Portland Mentor for Post-Surgery Support

I'm scheduled for surgery later this month that will leave me with a permanent colostomy. I'd like to meet someone in Portland who would be willing to help me get started. I'm 49 and very active, so someone who likes to exercise and travel would be a great fit. I admire all of you who are handling this with such grace and helping each other in this forum. Honestly, I'm not sure I can go through with it, but I'm pretty sure I can't do it alone.
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Hello,

I am not sure I am the mentor you are looking for, but I am a person you can talk to. I don't live in Portland but am moving there within the next couple of months. I just sold my place and will be up there this weekend looking earnestly for a place to buy. I had a colostomy in January 2012, so I am fairly new to it, but I think I have adjusted well to the change. I can tell you about my experience with figuring out how to deal with it. I do exercise but not religiously, and I don't travel all that much except for a twice-yearly trip to Hawaii. I'm 64 and live in San Francisco now.
Terence

I wish I could give you all the support you need, but I would say this: search for protective wear. I would start with the company you're getting your pouches from. Ask them what you need to cover you for sports and swimming, and of course for jacuzzi showering—something that will keep you secure for all of that gym workout. I haven't even done this yet for your own good; you don't want an accident. But always have a change of clothes and all your pouch stuff: deodorant, spray, washcloths, towel, and extra in a sports bag. Not just what you may bring just for a change. Take this to your nurses, doctors, and companies, and look online. That's all I can think of for covering for sports and everyday use.