This topic is about someone who is 8 months into their journey after having a temporary ileostomy, which is the first of three planned surgeries. They are sharing their experiences to offer encouragement and positivity to others who might be going through something similar. Here are some key points and insights from their journey:

- Travel: They have successfully taken two trips that included activities like water sports and mountain climbing, showing that it's possible to enjoy adventurous activities post-surgery.

- Fitness: They are about 90% back to their pre-surgery fitness routine, which includes deadlifting around 175 pounds, running, and biking.

- Support Garment: They wear a Stealth Belt all the time for added security and comfort.

- Diet: They can eat almost anything now, with the key being to chew thoroughly. They also find that pairing new foods with a beer helps.

- Output: They empty their pouch about three times during the day and once at night, with mucus output once daily.

The purpose of sharing this experience is to spread positivity and encourage others who might be facing similar challenges.

Additional insights and questions include:

- They are curious why the second surgery in a three-step process is often more painful than the first. After their first surgery, they didn't need pain medication, but their bowel "fell asleep," causing them to vomit bile until it woke up.

- They confirm that their current appliance is a temporary ileostomy, with two more surgeries to go.

- Interestingly, they find that beer seems to reduce their gas, whereas on days they don't drink, they experience more gas.

- They emphasize the importance of having a strong core before surgery and continue to pursue fitness goals while being cautious of hernia risks.

- Their underlying condition is severe ulcerative colitis, which they had for 7-8 years. The surgery was elective after other treatments failed, and they have mixed feelings about it, though they often feel it was the best choice.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Early Postoperative Mobilization: Many suggest that getting up and walking soon after surgery helps the bowel wake up and prevents excessive bile vomiting.

2. Lifting and Hernia/Prolapse Risk:
- Several people advise against heavy lifting and recommend focusing on lighter weights, rebuilding core strength, and being patient.
- One person developed a small prolapse from lifting, while another, aged 65, avoids heavy weights and sticks to cardio, swimming (using arms only), and light dumbbells.

3. Stealth Belt: Many recommend wearing a Stealth Belt 24/7 to keep the pouch secure during all activities.

4. Gas and Beer/Diet Differences: Experiences vary widely. Some find that beer quickly fills their pouch with gas, while others find it reduces gas. It's important to monitor individual reactions and adjust food and drink choices accordingly.

5. Output Frequency: This can vary greatly, ranging from 3 to 8 times daily, depending on diet, underlying conditions like UC or Crohn’s, and eating patterns. Frequent small meals may increase the frequency of emptying.