This topic is about a person who has been living with a colostomy since October 1, 2019. They initially faced challenges like pancaking, clothing issues, and unexpected rectal mucus. Over time, with research and adjustments, they found solutions and are now sharing their journey and tips to help others in similar situations.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. **Diet Tips to Prevent Pancaking:**
- Focus on a high-fiber diet with minimal processed foods.
- Include daily servings of oatmeal or cereals with soy milk, fruits like pears, apples, and mandarins (with skins), potatoes with skin, whole-wheat crackers or bread with peanut butter, whole-wheat pasta, beans, rice, and homemade hummus.
- Stay well-hydrated to maintain ideal stool consistency.

2. **Appliance Techniques:**
- Use a Hollister convex barrier (#11704) which is flexible and has a smaller footprint.
- Soften the pouch by crinkling it and lubricate the inside with mineral oil to prevent sticking.
- Choose clothing that doesn’t put pressure on the pouch, like mid-rise elastic-waist jeans and untucked shirts.

3. **Managing Rectal Mucus:**
- Sit down to urinate to help manage unexpected mucus.

4. **Pancaking Solutions:**
- Pancaking can be related to both the appliance and diet.
- Try different brands and types of barriers; some people find success with Hollister over Coloplast.
- Consider using soft or regular convex barriers to keep output away from the stoma.

5. **Recommended Products:**
- Hollister soft convex #8958 and flexible convex #11704 are highly recommended.
- Salts Healthcare soft convex pouches are suggested for users in the U.K.

6. **Output Consistency:**
- High fluid intake can loosen stool, so monitor your liquid consumption.
- If using loperamide (Imodium) regularly, review your diet-fluid balance and pouch fit.

7. **General Tips:**
- It’s normal to check your pouch by feeling or palpating it for security.
- Consider giving your stoma a name to help normalize the experience.
- Remember that the ostomy likely saved your life, and treat any mishaps as manageable events.

The originator is grateful for the early guidance received from forums and encourages newcomers to practice patience, diligence, and acceptance while actively seeking solutions. They are also open to answering further questions about diet or equipment.