Well, guys, surgery is only 4 days away, and weirdly, I'm ready and at peace with the whole thing. I'm kind of anxious to see what life holds for me in this next chapter. I'm happy I get to start healing and going back to work in the Air Force soon after. 2018 has been a year for me to soul search and truly figure out who I am.
Cj2383
Aug 17, 2018 10:09 am
Bill
Aug 17, 2018 11:30 am
Best of luck for the op and for the future. It sounds as if you are well prepared to make the most of it
Best wishes
Bill
MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,406 members.
“I mostly read and still feel like I belong.”
“Doctors took notes; they want others to find this website.”
“From midnight blowouts to big wins, there’s always a hand to hold.”
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 🫶🏼
Advertisement
Hollister
Skin barrier extenders are ostomy accessories that can help your skin barrier fit better and last longer.
Learn all about skin barrier extenders.
Learn all about skin barrier extenders.
Tips on Hernia Prevention with Collin | Hollister
Morning glory
Aug 17, 2018 11:31 pm
I hope your surgery goes well. You do seem to be at peace with it. Hopefully, you will be back in the Air Force soon.
Cj2383
Aug 18, 2018 5:00 pm
Thank you! I'm still enlisted. They've just given me a break to focus on my health and healing. They've been amazing!
Cj2383
Aug 24, 2018 11:27 pm
Update: Well, I'm officially an Ostomate. Surgery went as well as expected. I was out of the hospital in three days. I'm glad I got it done here because everyone has been amazing during this process, from Dr. McNevin to my plastic surgeon, Dr. Bonneau. Looking forward to the next chapter of my life, as well as finishing out my enlistment and heading back to Texas. Thank you to all the well-wishers.
Advertisement
Hollister
A convex ostomy skin barrier can help prevent output leakage and skin issues. Unfortunately, some misconceptions about convexity may keep people with ostomies from using it.
Learn about convexity and 4 myths surrounding it.
Learn about convexity and 4 myths surrounding it.
Morning glory
Aug 25, 2018 3:03 am
Cj2383. ...So happy you are doing so well. Thank you for your service. Stay in touch.
Cj2383
Aug 26, 2018 8:11 am
Yes, of course. I'm just going to take this time to get back into school and heal up. Looking forward to the future!
Bill
Aug 27, 2018 6:19 am
It sounds as if you have it all under control and your future looks bright.
Best wishes
Bill
Cj2383
Aug 27, 2018 7:46 am
Thanks, Bill. I'm learning that your mindset is key! Positivity is an amazing thing!
Past Member
Sep 11, 2018 4:34 pm
Hey Cj, how are things going for you? Post-surgery can be a hard time, but hang in there. I would drop you my email, but I'm not sure that's allowed. I'm a free member, so I can't send you a mail. Post-surgery was the hardest for me. But you adapt and get the hang of things.