This topic is about finding strength and gratitude one year after unexpectedly receiving a colostomy. The person sharing their story went through a tough time with severe diverticulitis, uncontrolled IBS, and a stressful job, which led to emergency surgery on October 26, 2023. This surgery resulted in a colostomy, and they reflect on their journey since then.

- The first three months after surgery were incredibly challenging both mentally and physically, making it hard to even leave the house.
- By six months, they felt well enough to enjoy swimming with their grandchildren, wearing a swimsuit with confidence.
- They realized that what they "lost"—such as self-doubt, body-loathing, and fear—was replaced by gains in confidence, self-acceptance, reduced pain, and a greater appreciation for life.
- Practicing daily gratitude has helped them see the experience as life-saving and affirming, rather than just tragic.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared:

1. Maintaining a positive mindset and practicing gratitude can be powerful tools for healing and adjusting to life with an ostomy. Acceptance can eventually bring relief and even joy.
2. It's important to acknowledge the difficulties without sugar-coating them, but also to look for "silver linings" to keep moving forward.
3. Sharing personal stories can help both new and experienced ostomates feel less isolated and build a sense of community.
4. Celebrate milestones, no matter how small, like your first outing or swim. Recognizing progress can strengthen resilience.
5. An ostomy can be seen as a "second lease on life." Focusing on the pain and limitations that have been removed can outweigh what was lost.
6. Encouragement from peers is invaluable. Keeping a positive attitude, maintaining perspective, and "making lemonade" when life hands you lemons can be as beneficial as medical care.