This topic is about someone who has just been discharged from the hospital after completing the final stage of a two-stage stoma reversal. They are feeling a mix of relief and anxiety as they adjust to life without a stoma. Here's a bit more about their journey and some advice and insights shared by others:

- In May 2023, they had an emergency colostomy due to a severe episode of diverticulitis.
- By November 2024, they underwent the first stage of reversal, which involved creating a temporary loop ileostomy. This was challenging to manage.
- Just a week ago, they had their final surgery to close the ileostomy, and their recovery is going well.

The person is experiencing a range of emotions, from relief to anxiety, especially concerning bowel control, bathroom urgency, and the habit of checking for the pouch. At 58, they feel capable of handling these changes and are grateful for the support and friendship from the forum, hoping to stay connected even without a stoma.

In a follow-up, they shared more details:

1. The loop ileostomy made the closure surgery less complicated.
2. In the early days post-reversal, they have concerns about eating, bloating, constipation, and urgency.
3. Pre-surgery pelvic-floor exercises seem to help with continence.
4. In Ireland, the practice is to leave the stoma site open and dress it daily with absorbent packing, which was initially painful but is improving.
5. Their diet focuses on high-fiber fresh fruits and vegetables while avoiding processed foods.
6. They emphasize the importance of strong home support and offer to answer questions about the reversal process.

Advice and insights from the community include:

- Many members congratulate the successful reversal and encourage staying active on the forum, emphasizing that "once an Ostomate, always an Ostomate."
- Members note that positive reversal stories are rare online, and sharing experiences can help others who are considering or awaiting their own reversal.
- Several members request ongoing updates to learn about managing urgency, diet, and recovery timelines, as they often only hear negative stories and appreciate balanced information.