The topic is about navigating the world of dating and finding love when you have an ostomy, which the poster affectionately calls "Maxine." She is concerned about how having an ostomy might affect her chances of finding romantic love. Here are some of her worries and the advice shared by others:

- She is unsure about how and when to tell a potential partner about her ostomy.
- She wonders if anyone will accept both her and "Maxine," especially on difficult days.
- She fears possible rejection after developing feelings for someone.
- Despite these concerns, she hopes to find someone willing to embrace love with her.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from others:

1. Consider using online dating, especially platforms that cater to people with ostomies. Some members suggest creating a profile so the right person can find you. One site mentioned is Ostodate.

2. Let your ostomy act as a filter. If someone reacts negatively, it’s a clear sign they might not be the right person for you.

3. There are success stories to inspire hope:
- A loving relationship that started on Ostodate, where texting first helped build comfort.
- A person with an ostomy for over 40 years who has had normal relationships.
- An NPR story about an elderly couple who found love again, showing that age and physical challenges don't have to stop romance.

4. Practical tips from those who have found love:
- Trust your instincts and choose people who resonate with you.
- Be patient; it might take many messages before a connection forms.
- Confidence is key—remind yourself that you are still desirable and capable of a fulfilling relationship.
- If possible, dating another person with an ostomy can make it easier to share and even laugh about body-image and appliance issues.

5. Mindset and self-care:
- Love yourself first; self-acceptance is crucial before expecting acceptance from others.
- Keep hope alive—real love can happen despite having an ostomy.
- Rejection can be painful, but it’s better to discover early on if someone isn’t right for you.