This topic is about celebrating the first anniversary, or "stomaversary," of living with two stomas—one for fecal and one for urinary diversion. The person sharing their experience feels a mix of surprise at how quickly the year has passed and a sense of how using the stomas has become a normal part of life. The overall feeling is positive and celebratory. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others in the community:

- Community support is crucial. Many people emphasize how important it is to have encouragement, share experiences, and maintain a positive outlook when adjusting to life with an ostomy.

- Time and adaptation play a big role. Long-term ostomates often mention that memories of "normal" bowel function fade over time, and living with a stoma becomes a routine part of life fairly quickly.

- Proper stoma siting is essential. One person shared their experience of needing a second surgery because the initial stoma was not placed well. Correct placement is vital for long-term comfort and usability.

- Be realistic about reversals. Someone who had a reversal cautions that it doesn't always mean a return to normal. Issues like clustering bowel movements can continue, and some people even choose to return to an ileostomy. It's important to have realistic expectations.

- Nutrition can be challenging. When solid food is difficult to manage, dietitian-prescribed oral nutrition supplements and keeping up with high fluid intake can help prevent nutritional decline.

- Celebrate milestones. Recognizing "stomaversaries" and other achievements can help maintain motivation and acknowledge personal resilience.