This topic is about someone who is preparing for colostomy-reversal surgery after having an emergency operation due to a ruptured diverticulum. This person had a temporary ostomy and is now looking forward to the reversal. They share their feelings of gratitude towards the hospital staff, the emotional journey of living with an ostomy, and their mixed emotions of excitement and nervousness about the upcoming surgery. They also express their longing for a "real meal" and plan to keep others updated on their progress.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared:

1. After the reversal surgery, the person reported that the procedure was successful. They now have a new midline scar and experienced some pain and fatigue in the initial days. By the fourth day, they were able to sleep in bed, and by the fifth day, they were walking unaided and discharged home.

2. The current plan involves starting with small meals to test food tolerance and gradually moving to a high-fiber diet in a few weeks. They are grateful to have had the same hospital staff and are looking forward to a Thanksgiving meal with family, which they missed due to the original emergency.

3. They enthusiastically support the decision to have the reversal and plan to stay connected with the community for support.

4. For those undergoing similar experiences, it is advised to start with small food portions, chew thoroughly, and gradually reintroduce foods from before the surgery. Most people return to a normal diet quickly.

5. Temporary urgency in bowel movements is common in the first few weeks after surgery, but this usually improves over time.

6. Physical therapy is important to regain leg strength and abdominal muscle tone, which may be weakened after multiple surgeries.

7. Concerns about body image can persist, and hair loss might occur. Biotin supplements may help with hair health.

8. Consider donating any leftover ostomy supplies to wound-care nurses, hospitals, or community members who might need financial assistance.

9. Choosing to undergo reversal surgery requires courage, and maintaining a positive mental outlook along with community support can greatly aid in recovery.