The topic is about someone preparing for a significant life change: becoming a double ostomate. This means they will have surgery to remove both their bladder and rectum, resulting in the creation of a urostomy and a colostomy. While they are eager for the relief this surgery will bring after dealing with non-functioning organs, they are understandably nervous about managing two stomas. They are reaching out to the community for advice and support. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Educate yourself early
- Read as much as you can before the surgery. The more you know now, the less trial-and-error you'll face later.
- Check out the United Ostomy Associations of America website for trustworthy information and resources.

2. Line up professional support
- Arrange for follow-up care with an ostomy nurse, whether through home-health services, an outpatient clinic, or both. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
- Before the surgery, have an ostomy nurse mark the best locations for your stomas. Choose flat areas away from scars, folds, the beltline, and the navel to avoid appliance issues.

3. Expect an intense learning curve
- Managing two new stomas means you might face more accidents, but you'll also learn the basics more quickly.

4. Protect your furniture and bedding
- Consider buying disposable or washable/reusable fabric incontinence pads to protect your bed and furniture during the early days when accidents are more likely.

5. Plan for hernia prevention and support
- Order a custom hernia support belt that can accommodate two pouches. This process can take about two months.
- Nu-Hope belts: Follow the measuring and tracing instructions on their website, send in your tracing, receive a template number, and then order through your medical-supply company.
- Ostomybagholder.com: Offers online measuring instructions and direct ordering.
- Note that Stealth Belt used to make double-bag belts but reportedly no longer offers them.

6. Stay connected with peers
- Keep engaging with forums and communities. Many day-to-day issues are similar for both single and double ostomates, and sharing experiences can help solve problems faster.

7. Alternative reconstruction insight
- Some members have shared experiences with a wet colostomy, where one stoma/bag is used for both urine and feces. This can simplify management but is rare and may increase the risk of kidney infections.