Topic Explanation:
The original poster (OP) shares a deeply personal story about their journey from a life-threatening health crisis to finding love and happiness despite having a colostomy. After surviving a serious infection and multiple surgeries, the OP was left with a permanent colostomy, which led to feelings of isolation and despair. They believed that their love life was over due to the ostomy and other personal factors. However, after joining a dating site and being honest about their situation, they met someone who accepted them fully, including their ostomy. The OP emphasizes that an ostomy is not a barrier to happiness and encourages others not to give up on finding love.

Advice and Insights:

- Acceptance and Perspective:
- The OP initially struggled with accepting their ostomy, feeling that it was a significant barrier to happiness. However, they eventually realized that the ostomy was a bigger deal to them than to others, particularly their partner, who accepted it without issue.
- Another user shared a similar experience, noting that their partner also did not care about the ostomy, reinforcing the idea that acceptance from others is possible.

- Support and Community:
- The OP found solace and perspective by joining an online community of ostomates, which helped them realize they were not alone in their struggles.
- Several users expressed gratitude for the OP's story, noting that it provided hope and inspiration to others who might be struggling with life as an ostomate.

- Finding Love and Relationships:
- The OP's story highlights that honesty and openness about one's situation can lead to meaningful connections. They were upfront about their ostomy and other personal aspects, which led to a loving relationship.
- Users emphasized the importance of not giving up on finding love, as the right person will accept you for who you are, including any medical conditions or physical differences.

- Healing and Time:
- The OP and another user both mentioned that it took time to come to terms with their new reality. The first few months were particularly challenging, but with time, they were able to accept their situation and live a fulfilling life.
- One user advised others to give themselves time to heal, both physically and emotionally, and to seek support from the community.

- Living an Active Life:
- Despite the initial challenges, the OP and other users shared that they continue to live active and fulfilling lives, engaging in activities like hiking and traveling.