Preparing for an ileostomy reversal surgery can be a significant step in your health journey. This procedure involves reconnecting your bowel after having a temporary ileostomy, which was necessary due to a bowel perforation during chemotherapy. Now that you're in remission and cleared for the reversal, here are some practical tips and advice to help you through the process:

1. Take your recovery very slowly. It might take some time for your bowel function to return to normal after the surgery.

2. Try to minimize or avoid using opioid pain-killers if possible. These medications can lead to constipation and slow down bowel movements, which you want to avoid during recovery.

3. Do your research and make sure you fully understand the pros and cons of the reversal. It's important to have realistic expectations about the outcome.

4. Keep in mind that a reversal might not be the best choice for everyone. Make sure to consider all factors and have thorough discussions with your surgical team.

5. Stay positive. Many patients find that once they have healed, they enjoy the return to full-colon function.