Preparing for ileostomy reversal surgery can be a mix of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. If you're getting ready for this procedure, here's a simple guide to help you prepare and know what to expect:

1. **Pre-Op Schedule**:
- Start a clear-liquid diet on November 19.
- Undergo Sutab bowel prep on November 20-21.
- Have a colonoscopy and an X-ray contrast enema on November 22.
- Surgery is scheduled for November 23, which means five days without solid food, including Thanksgiving.
- Meet with your surgeon on November 18 to review the plan.

2. **Packing Essentials**:
- Bring Butt Paste and wipes for post-op skin care.

3. **Pre-Op Discovery**:
- A polyp was found during the pre-op scope, which needs removal by a specialist before proceeding with the reversal, causing a delay.

4. **Advice for Surgery and Recovery**:
- Follow the hospital’s Enhanced Recovery After Abdominal Surgery (ERAS) instructions closely. The bowel prep can be challenging.
- Walking and sitting up as soon as possible can help your gut recover faster. Remember: "walk, walk, walk."
- Be prepared for possible ileus (temporary bowel shutdown) and accidents. Having adult diapers or pads can be helpful.
- Protect your skin from frequent bowel movements by applying diaper-rash ointment or Calmoseptine before any irritation starts. Unscented baby wipes and stoma barrier wipes can be gentler than toilet paper.
- The first bowel movements might burn, so barrier creams can provide relief.
- Pain after the reversal might be more intense than the original surgery, especially if there's a lot of scar tissue.
- Mentally prepare by taking deep breaths, remembering that butt-wiping is like riding a bike, and try to keep a sense of humor.

5. **Community Support**:
- Keep in touch with others who have recently undergone reversal surgery. They can offer valuable experiences and moral support.