This topic is about a person who recently underwent emergency surgery and is now living with an ileostomy. They are sharing their journey of recovery, including their survival story, goals for getting back to an active lifestyle, and questions about ostomy products. Here are some key points and advice from their experience:

- After a serious medical situation, the person had their large intestine, gall bladder, and appendix removed, resulting in an ileostomy. They spent time in a coma and had a significant hospital stay.

- They are eager to return to their active lifestyle, which includes activities like horseback riding, teaching barre classes, and practicing yoga. They are focused on doing this safely.

- Diet is a big focus. They are carefully reintroducing foods they previously avoided, such as dairy and soy, and are currently eating foods like eggs, salmon, and beef. They are also using liquid vitamins and planning to add bone-broth protein.

- Skin care is important, as they have experienced some skin issues under the stoma. They are experimenting with different products and prefer minimal tape. They shower during pouch changes and let their skin air out as much as possible.

- To manage discomfort, they use a heating pad and practice gentle stretching and mindful posture. They are gradually increasing their walking.

- They have a positive outlook and strong family support. They are interested in sharing recipes, product tips, and advocacy lessons. They have noticed a lack of resources in the U.S. and are following ostomy-related accounts on social media for ideas.

Advice and insights for others in a similar situation include:

1. Healing and activity: Remember that internal healing takes time. Gradually ease into exercise to avoid complications like a parastomal hernia.

2. Try many products: Reach out to nurses and manufacturers for free samples. Experiment with different products to find what works best for you.

3. Hydration: Without a colon, it's important to drink plenty of fluids. Many find that drinking plain water between meals helps with hydration, and adding electrolytes or coconut water can be beneficial.

4. Diet: There is no universal list of foods to avoid. It's all about trial and error. Chew food well, introduce new foods slowly, and drink extra liquids to help with digestion. Small, frequent meals can be helpful.

5. Resources and support: The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA.org) offers guides and forums. Online communities and social media can provide additional tips and support.

6. Self-advocacy: Keep asking questions and don't hesitate to change doctors if you feel your concerns aren't being addressed. A positive attitude and proactive approach are key to long-term success.