Wow... I feel so much better after reading this thread (but am so sorry so many of you are suffering!)!!!!
I had no idea how common it was to get hernias after abdominal surgery!!! I also had an emergency colostomy after my colon ruptured earlier this year. Three months later, I had my reversal surgery... and 5 months later had hernia surgery for hernias behind all of my scars (4 in total). It sounds like they covered my entire abdomen with one piece of mesh, so I hope this helps prevent them from recurring. It has been more painful than both other surgeries combined... beyond words. I'm only 2 weeks out, and I understand I will still be in pain for a few more weeks (per the doc), but after reading this, it sounds like it will be more like months. The pain is getting better, but each twinge scares me to death... the fear of getting that bag again is hard to shake.
If any of you have found any exercises or supplements to take, or anything to do to help prevent the recurrence of any issues, please let me know!! I heard the typical - don't smoke or gain weight. :)
Thanks, Kathy