This topic is about someone reflecting on their journey of living with a permanent colostomy for three years. They share their experiences with physical and emotional challenges, including dealing with Diversion Proctitis, trauma from emergency surgery, and changes in their relationship. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Surgical Options:
- Consider discussing further surgical options like re-anastomosis or proctectomy with your doctor, although it's understandable that more surgery can be daunting.

2. Emotional Processing:
- It's important to express strong emotions in a safe and private setting if public discussions feel overwhelming.
- Therapy, journaling, or talking with empathetic professionals can help process trauma.
- Healing comes from what you do with your time, such as making memories and seeking spiritual growth.

3. Body-Mind Reconnection:
- Engaging in physical therapy and paying mindful attention to your body can help reconnect with yourself after surgery and hospitalization.

4. Advocate for Yourself:
- Don't hesitate to push back against dismissive healthcare providers and seek out those familiar with treatments like virgin coconut oil or aFMT for Diversion Proctitis.
- Providing feedback on institutional failings, like being left alone during traumatic procedures, can be part of the healing process.

5. Relationship Dynamics:
- If your spouse is over-protective, assert your independence and set boundaries. Remember, they may also be dealing with their own trauma from watching you suffer.
- Open communication, shared faith, and mutual trust can help both partners adapt to changes.

6. Coping Mindset:
- Acceptance comes in waves, and it's normal to have ups and downs.
- Life with an ostomy is about adapting, being kind to yourself, and continually moving forward, rather than striving for perfection.