This topic is about a 36-year-old woman who is considering a urostomy due to severe, end-stage interstitial cystitis (IC). She has been mostly confined to her home for years and, after a delay caused by the COVID pandemic, is now scheduled to have the surgery in the coming months. She hopes that the procedure will allow her to enjoy activities like car rides and hiking again. However, she has some concerns, particularly about the risks of surgery, such as sepsis, and the possibility of vomiting due to post-operative blockage, as she has a fear of vomiting (emetophobia). She is looking for support from others who have chosen a urostomy for similar reasons, as she hasn't found the help she needs in existing social media groups. Although local in-person support meetings were canceled, she is encouraged by the prospect of them restarting on Zoom.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Emotional support: It's completely normal to feel scared. Reaching out to others, expressing your feelings, and joining online or Zoom support groups can help reduce anxiety.

2. Shared experience: Even if someone had a urostomy for a different reason, like bladder cancer, they can relate to the pre-surgical pain and have found that life improved enough to return to daily activities after the surgery.

3. Reassurance: Many people have successfully gone through this surgery. Keeping open communication with your medical team and connecting with fellow ostomates can provide the confidence you need.