This topic is about someone reflecting on their journey one year after having an emergency colostomy due to a colon perforation. Initially, they faced a whirlwind of emotions, including anger, resentment, and depression, along with self-blame and fear of adjusting to a new way of life. However, finding an online community of people with similar experiences helped ease their loneliness and provided much-needed advice and support. They express deep gratitude for this community. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared:

1. Community support is invaluable. Sharing experiences with people who truly understand can reduce feelings of isolation, provide education, and offer daily encouragement.

2. Celebrate milestones, like "stomaversaries," to acknowledge progress and reinforce a positive outlook.

3. Accept the stoma as life-saving. Some people even give it a name, like "Stella," to help foster acceptance and perhaps even affection.

4. Take recovery one day at a time. It's important to recognize that while bad days may still happen, they become less frequent with time and practice.

5. Seek professional help when possible. An ostomy nurse or a manufacturer advisor can offer personalized guidance and boost confidence in managing pouching and skin care.

6. Engage with the community by reading others' posts, asking questions, and continuing to learn. This will steadily improve management skills and quality of life. Members with decades of experience often share that "life is good.