This topic is about Jamie Folkard's journey with ulcerative colitis, a condition that led to an emergency ileostomy. Jamie is now considering further surgery to create an ileo-anal pouch, which could allow him to live without an ostomy bag. Here’s a look at his story and some advice from others who have been through similar experiences:

- Jamie was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis after experiencing months of misdiagnosed symptoms like bloody diarrhea and anemia. He was hospitalized on August 24, 2010, due to perforating ulcers in his large intestine.
- On August 28, 2010, his condition was confirmed as ulcerative colitis, and he was treated with multiple intravenous antibiotics.
- By September 2, 2010, a strong immuno-suppressant was tried but did not work.
- On September 3, 2010, Jamie underwent an emergency subtotal colectomy, a four-hour surgery that left about 6 inches (15 cm) of his colon and the anus intact, and an ileostomy was formed.
- After the surgery, Jamie faced complications, including a large intra-abdominal abscess behind the stoma, which required drainage and led to another three-week hospital stay.
- During this challenging time, Jamie's mother had left the family, but his father was a constant source of support.

Now, several months later, Jamie is looking into the possibility of having an ileo-anal pouch surgery, which would allow him to live without an ostomy bag. He is interested in learning more about different pouch configurations like the "J," "W," or "S" pouches and hopes to have the procedure done by a specialist at Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital. Despite understanding the high risks involved, Jamie feels confident and determined to move forward.

Here is some advice and insights from a forum member who has had a similar experience:

1. If the anus and rectum are completely removed, reversal is not possible. It’s important to confirm what parts of the anatomy remain before assuming a pouch can be created.
2. Be aware that severe post-operative infections can occur. The forum member shared that their kidneys nearly failed due to complications.
3. Surviving life-threatening complications can lead to a new appreciation for life. Staying positive and using community support sites can be incredibly helpful.