Preparing for a colostomy can be an emotional and practical journey. The person in this situation is scheduled for surgery on June 16 and has mixed feelings about it. While optimistic and even proud of the future stoma, which has been affectionately named "Elizabeth Anne," there are concerns due to a family history with ostomies. The underlying health issue is Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome, which led to a collapsed colon, and a previous surgery did not succeed. There is also worry about how this ongoing illness affects her two young children, especially her empathetic four-year-old son. The hope is that the surgery will bring better health and improve family life.

Here are some helpful insights and advice for preparing emotionally and practically for a colostomy:

1. Health and quality-of-life benefits:
- Many people who have lived with an ostomy for a long time report no regrets and much better health. Some even wish they had the surgery sooner.
- Try to remind yourself of at least five positive thoughts for every negative one.

2. Join support networks:
- Consider attending local hospital-run or community ostomy support groups, ideally before the surgery.
- Online resources like ostomyland.org and private Facebook ostomy groups can be very helpful.

3. Stoma site marking:
- Make sure a stoma nurse marks the best position for the stoma, as correct placement can improve comfort, clothing options, and reduce leaks and hernia risk.
- Ask the surgeon or nurse to place the stoma away from the navel for better appliance adhesion.

4. Product experimentation:
- Try different products until you find the combination that works best for you. Confidence usually builds after a few months.

5. Hernia prevention and recovery:
- Take it very slowly with activities for the first few months and wear suitable support garments if advised.
- Be cautious about lifting, especially with young children at home.

6. Everyday living tips:
- Humor can help; giving the stoma a name and making light-hearted jokes can ease the experience.
- Change the pouch before meals to reduce output during changes.
- Start with bland foods and be cautious with acidic items like pineapple and other citrus fruits.
- Hipster or low-rise track pants are often more comfortable than high-waisted styles.

7. Involving children:
- Be honest with your children; saying "Mummy’s a bit sore today" is better than pretending everything is fine, as kids can sense the truth.
- Let children help in small ways, like warming a pouch inside their shirt, so they feel included rather than worried.
- Living with a chronically ill parent can nurture empathy in young children.