This topic is about navigating the emotional and physical challenges that come with dealing with serious health issues, such as cancer surgeries and living with a stoma, while also coping with the loss of a dear friend. The person sharing their story has gone through multiple surgeries due to bladder cancer and ulcerative colitis, which eventually led to living with a stoma. Despite these hardships, they find gratitude in their survival and the chance to live a relatively normal life.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Grieving the loss of friends is a natural and ongoing process. Remembering the good times shared can bring both pain and comfort.

2. It's important to focus on the positives, like being alive and able to cherish memories of loved ones. This perspective can help when feeling down about the challenges of living with an ostomy.

3. A helpful mantra to lighten the mood is, "Better to poop in a bag than in your pants," which can help reframe difficult moments.

4. It's encouraged to openly express your feelings and acknowledge the hardships you face. There is community support available, especially during events like World Ostomy Month.