I had my colon removed in 2003 due to UC; an ileostomy in 2010, a few stomal revisions, and then in 2012, because of a parastomal hernia, we moved my stoma from the right to the left. all during the first 2-years, I had constant leakage from my rectum, to the point where I was hospitalized for three-days and every test was run. my colon-rectal doctor could not determine why I was having bowel coming out of my rectum ( not just mucous.) One day while teaching, I had a stream of bowel that hit the floor in front of my class. My bag filled up normally. So, during the parastomal hernia repair, I had my rectum and anus removed. I hate my ileostomy, but removing the rectum and anus was the best decision I made. The recovery from that surgery hurt less than three episiotomies and a C-section. I wouldn’t even use the word “hurt.” I was given a pillow to sit on, which I only needed for three-weeks. I’m not sure what procedure was used although I have the medical records. I just know that where the opening used to be, it was all stitched up and it’s like I never had an opening. It never causes me pain, and someone passes gas, they can’t blame me! That part of my surgery was probably the easiest thing I’ve ever had done.
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I’d like to write a nice review
that might express something quite new.
Then I read previous points of view,
which said the things I wanted to.
I would endorse the things I’ve read
about what other folks have said,
for these are the benefits and things
that joining a site like this can bring.
When I was an initiate, (novice)
it seemed to be appropriate
to express myself in rhyme
as this is how I spend my time.
When contemplating what to write
with contributing to this site,
it seemed to me, my ostomy
could be expressed in poetry.
Thus, when I had something to say,
a rhyme, for me seemed the best way,
for rhymes can often capture stuff
that prose don’t capture quite enough.
I do appreciate the way,
this site lets people have their say
in whatever mode they will
about the things that make them ill.
There are not many forums for
discussing stuff most folks abhor.
So, this site fulfils a small niche,
where angst and problems can unleash.
Where raw emotions can decant,
so, folks feel free to have a rant,
and we can all associate
is something I appreciate.
B. Withers 2021