This topic is about someone’s journey through a challenging medical condition called diverticulitis, which led to multiple surgeries and the emotional ups and downs that came with it. Here’s a look at their experience and some advice shared by others who have been through similar situations:

- In May 2011, the person was hospitalized due to severe diverticulitis and was sent home after three days with antibiotics.
- A follow-up appointment led to a laparoscopic partial sigmoidectomy in June. Initially, recovery seemed smooth, but sudden and severe abdominal pain required another trip to the ER.
- Although no issues were found at first, a CT scan six days later revealed an anastomotic leak, leading to emergency open surgery, an ICU stay, and the creation of a colostomy.
- They returned home with an epidural, a wound-vac, a complex medication regimen, and were dealing with significant physical and emotional trauma.
- Within a week, they were readmitted to the hospital for dehydration and malnutrition, having lost weight from 216 lbs to 187 lbs. They started on home TPN and worked on strategies to boost their appetite.
- In late September, a specialist attempted a reversal, but due to dense scar tissue and adhesions, a loop ileostomy was created instead of a full reconnection.
- The ileostomy was more challenging to handle emotionally than the colostomy, and insurance issues added to feelings of depression and anger.
- A possible final reversal was scheduled for December, which was met with cautious optimism and a renewed determination to actively face challenges rather than passively accept them.
- They also mentioned a technical issue with the website logging them out repeatedly.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Stay mentally proactive: Many emphasize the importance of "fighting back," avoiding depression, and remembering that "it’s only a bag."
2. Long-term ostomates offer reassurance that a fulfilling life is possible even with a permanent ileostomy, highlighting that attitude is crucial.
3. Sharing experiences of multiple surgeries, ICU stays, and significant weight loss can help normalize the situation and provide emotional support.
4. Humor, such as sharing a "Really Bad Day" story, can be a helpful tool for coping when things feel overwhelming.