This topic is about someone who was planning to have their ileostomy reversed but had the procedure cancelled. Now, they are considering keeping their ileostomy and are looking for encouragement and shared experiences from others in similar situations.

The person shares their own journey:

- They initially expected a quick reversal, but a heart attack delayed those plans.
- After 18 months, they still have their stoma, affectionately named "Seymour," and are questioning whether a reversal is worth the risk.
- Their main concerns include:
1. Feeling well currently and fearing that a reversal might jeopardize that.
2. A general distrust of doctors.
3. Being 78 years old and doubting their ability to regain health after major surgery.
4. Pre-existing heart issues and the possibility that another operation might cause new problems.
- They now see the stoma as the "lesser of two evils." Although a peristomal hernia might eventually require surgery, they prefer stability for now.
- They describe the initial shock of hearing the word "ostomy," the emotional adjustment, and the critical support from their husband and the online community.
- They encourage the absent member to return for the information, humor, and empathy that only fellow ostomates can provide.

They also wonder if the repeated postponements of surgery are a sign to leave things as they are, noting that they currently enjoy a good quality of life but would pursue surgery immediately if serious stoma problems arose.

Advice and insights from others include:

- Many members praise the author's honest and compassionate post, hoping the missing member reads it.
- Some share their thought process on reversals:
- After adapting well to an ileostomy, some patients decide that the potential complications of reversal, such as frequent bowel movements, skin irritation, and prolonged recovery, outweigh the benefits.
- Surgeons may stop suggesting reversal once patients express contentment with their stoma.
- Lived experiences:
- One member transitioned from a colostomy to an ileostomy and ultimately opted against reversal for the reasons mentioned above.
- Another member, two years post-surgery, now feels fully recovered, pain-free, and active. Repeated cancellations of a proposed reversal, along with an existing prolapse and hernia, make them inclined to wait until another surgery becomes absolutely necessary.
- The general consensus is that quality of life with a well-managed stoma can be excellent. Decisions on reversal should be driven by personal comfort, health status, and risk tolerance rather than the mere possibility of surgery.