This topic is about someone who has been living with both a colostomy and a urostomy for over 45 years. Despite this long journey, they have never met another person with an ostomy, which often makes them feel isolated, as if they are the only one in the world with such a condition.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. You are not alone. The ostomy community is large and widespread, with many people sharing similar experiences.

2. Connecting with other ostomates through online forums or local support groups can help reduce feelings of isolation. It also helps to dispel common misconceptions, such as the idea that having an ostomy means someone is dying, is contagious, or has changed gender.

3. Acceptance of living with an ostomy often improves over time. If you have to undergo a second or later stoma surgery, it can be easier to handle both emotionally and practically than the first one.

4. Family involvement can be a great source of support. For example, children offering assistance can help normalize ostomy care within the household and make it a more positive experience.