This topic is about a retired Navy welder from San Diego who faced a challenging health journey involving a cancer diagnosis and subsequent ostomy surgery. Here's a summary of his experience and some advice and insights from others who have been through similar situations:

- The veteran experienced chronic constipation for years, often having only one bowel movement per week. In July 2008, he went three weeks without a movement, which led to severe abdominal pain and shock.

- Despite initial scans showing nothing, he was eventually diagnosed with a lemon-sized tumor in his rectal/colonic area after collapsing in the emergency room.

- He underwent a 16-hour surgery, during which his strong vital signs encouraged the surgeons to continue despite the lengthy procedure. He was in a coma for 32 days afterward.

- Now living with an ostomy bag, he feels healthier and more active than before, expressing gratitude for the experience and believing it has improved his life.

Advice and insights from the community include:

1. Many people with ostomies find that life with a bag can be better than before surgery, with improved overall wellbeing. Embracing the device is encouraged.

2. Sharing personal stories is important for mutual support and motivation. The sentiment is that since we're still here, we should live life to the fullest.

3. The community focuses on positive reinforcement, prayers, and camaraderie, offering emotional support rather than technical product advice.