The topic at hand is about creating a chapter called "Making Sense of Stomas," which aims to provide clear and straightforward information about living with a stoma. The chapter will be divided into two parts: what to expect before the operation and what life is like afterwards. The writer is seeking input from people who have experience with stomas to enrich the content with real-life insights and suggestions. Here are some key points and advice gathered for this chapter:

- Pre-operative honesty and expectations:
- It's important for healthcare providers to be upfront about the lifestyle changes that come with a stoma, such as changes in driving distance and bathroom frequency. Patients need detailed information to prepare both mentally and practically.
- Knowing all possible side effects before making treatment decisions helps prevent surprises and ensures patients can give informed consent.

- Early psychological support:
- Access to counseling or peer support right after surgery can be crucial. It helps patients cope with the loss of normal bowel function and adjust to their new reality.

- Emergency vs. planned surgery:
- Those who undergo emergency stoma surgery often face greater shock due to the lack of preparation time. Providing them with practical resources can help them manage the trauma.

- Supplies, skills, and patience:
- Learning how to manage a stoma takes time and practice. Initial sessions with an ostomy nurse are just the beginning, and long-term success requires patience and courage.

- Stoma siting:
- Ideally, a skilled colorectal surgeon should plan the stoma placement well in advance of the surgery. If this is left to a nurse at the last minute, it may be worth questioning the team's expertise.

- Peer introduction:
- Meeting someone who has already gone through the procedure can help ease anxieties and provide a clearer picture of what to expect.

- Clinician mindset:
- Healthcare professionals might seem dismissive at times, as they focus on the positive outcomes of the procedure. However, patients should insist on getting all the information they need to feel fully informed.