This topic is all about celebrating the positive aspects of living with an ostomy. People are sharing their reasons for loving their ostomy, and it's a heartwarming collection of experiences and insights. Here are some of the reasons people have shared:

- Freedom from bathroom urgency and pain: Many find relief in not having to plan their lives around bathroom locations. They can be active, shop, hike, teach, travel, eat out, and sleep through the night without worry. The ability to "go" anywhere, even in a grocery line or at dinner, is a newfound freedom.

- Life-saving and life-extending benefits: For some, the surgery was life-saving, allowing them to live decades longer than they might have otherwise. They enjoy time with children, grandchildren, retirement, global travel, and everyday activities.

- Improved overall health and comfort: Chronic pain, constant diarrhea, incontinence, and leakage are no longer issues. Some have experienced significant weight loss and improvements in fitness and self-confidence.

- Practical conveniences: A urostomy can be connected to a night bag for uninterrupted sleep or a long-tubing bag on road trips to avoid bathroom stops. It allows urination while standing, avoiding unsanitary public toilets. Colostomies and ileostomies stop fecal leakage and allow for emptying at a convenient time.

- Humor, humility, and psychological boosts: Ostomies can bring humor, teach humility, and foster problem-solving skills and inner strength. Many feel like "superhero survivors" or part of "the few, the proud, the Stomarines," proud of their resilience.

- Small but helpful tips: Some suggest placing a sticker on the toilet or writing the change date on the flange tape to remember when to change the pouch. Keeping perspective is key: "It's only a stoma—get out there and live life."

- Social perks: There's never any blame for breaking wind in public, and there's greater confidence in dating and socializing, knowing the appliance is discreet.

These shared experiences highlight the positive impact an ostomy can have on one's life, offering freedom, health, and a sense of community.