This topic is about someone sharing their journey through various surgeries and health challenges related to ulcerative colitis, including an emergency colectomy, the creation of a J-pouch, dealing with chronic pouchitis, and eventually having a permanent stoma after a proctectomy. The person reflects on the emotional and physical changes they have experienced, including missing the feeling of a "normal" bowel movement, but also feeling grateful for the surgeries that saved their life. Here are some insights and advice shared in the discussion:

- Regular colonoscopies are crucial as they can detect issues early and potentially save lives. Delaying these screenings can lead to advanced stages of colorectal cancer, which might become inoperable.

- Having a permanent stoma can significantly improve one's quality of life. Many people who have lived with an ileostomy for decades find it liberating, often naming their stoma, traveling with it, and even participating in awareness videos.

- Maintaining a positive outlook is important. Focusing on gratitude for pain-free days, independence, and time with loved ones can help in coping with chronic illness.

- Giving your stoma a name and treating it with humor can help ease the emotional burden. For example, calling it something playful like "Michael Kors" or referring to medical drains as a "Gucci handbag" can foster acceptance.

- Even those who miss normal toileting routines acknowledge small losses, like less time to read in the bathroom, but most agree that the health benefits outweigh these minor inconveniences.

- It's common to dream about or feel nostalgic for conventional bowel movements after having a colostomy or ileostomy. Sharing these feelings with others who understand can help normalize the experience.