This topic is about managing life after bladder cancer surgery, specifically dealing with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diet, and living with a urostomy following chemotherapy. The person sharing their experience is celebrating being cancer-free for a year, although they are spending Thanksgiving alone due to COVID precautions. They have managed to prepare a small holiday meal but find they can only eat a little. Their recent blood work is mostly normal, except for low B-12 levels, which are being treated, and a kidney function measure (eGFR) of 35. They were initially diagnosed with stage-4 CKD after surgery but have improved to stage 3B through diet and exercise. They are curious if others with similar experiences have trouble eating and mention a parastomal hernia might be causing discomfort. Despite losing friends to cancer, they feel grateful to be alive.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared:

1. It's important to have a good relationship with a nephrologist if you have an ileal conduit/urostomy, as this can increase the risk of kidney infections and chronic kidney issues.

2. Consider discussing Jardiance (empagliflozin) with your nephrologist. Some people have found it helpful even if they are not diabetic. It has been reported to improve kidney function and reduce cardiac symptoms.

3. Maintaining a positive mental attitude and seeking support from the ostomy community can help you move from living "one day at a time" to having a more extended, confident outlook.

4. Long-term survivors of similar conditions share that life can return to normal. They encourage staying active, celebrating milestones, and maintaining a fighting spirit.