This topic is about a 35-year-old finance worker from the UK who, after a serious car accident, woke up from emergency surgery with a temporary colostomy. The procedure, known as a Hartmann’s procedure, was performed, and the surgeons have assured that the stoma is "100% reversible." Despite this reassurance, the sudden change has brought about intense fear, anxiety, and concerns about the possibility of the colostomy becoming permanent. The individual is trying to come to terms with the situation, understand the likelihood of reversal, and find hope for returning to an active lifestyle.

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

1. Reversal prospects:
- Many people have experienced uncomplicated colostomy reversals, and surgeons rarely promise "100%" unless the outcome is very likely.
- Having a significant portion of the bowel intact makes both the current quality of life and reversal odds favorable.
- It is important not to delay the reversal excessively, but full internal healing, which often takes 3 to 12 months, is essential for a safe reconnection.

2. Perspective and emotional coping:
- Surviving the crash and having a temporary stoma are positives; many with permanent ostomies would gladly trade places.
- It is normal to feel fear, mourn, or have "pity parties." Allow yourself to feel these emotions and seek professional counseling if PTSD symptoms persist.
- Online ostomy communities can provide understanding and support that friends and family might not be able to offer.

3. Day-to-day management until reversal:
- Treat the bulge as a likely parastomal hernia until assessed:
- Wear a hernia support belt or high-compression underwear; these are often supplied free on the NHS. Ask the stoma nurse for measuring and ordering details.
- Avoid heavy lifting and keep gentle, steady pressure over the area.
- Most hernias can be repaired during the reversal operation, so separate surgery is usually unnecessary unless complications arise.
- Monitor for symptoms like red-hot skin, sharp pain, fever, or rapid growth, and seek urgent review if these occur.
- Resume activity gradually: start with walking, add light cardio when cleared, and use support garments at the gym.
- Showering with a pouch is fine; you can use a waterproof cover or let the bag get wet and towel-dry.

4. Supplies and products:
- While no specific brands are mentioned, it is important to find appliances and support garments that fit well and prevent leaks. Stoma nurses can provide samples from multiple manufacturers.

5. Work and lifestyle:
- Standing desks, phased hours, and remote work can be helpful early on.
- Practice pouch changes and emergency leak management to build confidence before returning to on-site duties.

6. General tips:
- Keep in close contact with stoma nurses; many switch to telephone follow-ups once progress is stable.
- Maintain good nutrition and hydration to support healing and future surgery readiness.
- Use reputable sources such as the NHS website for further reading on parastomal hernias and ostomy care.