This topic is about finding love after having an ostomy, shared through a personal story of a fishing-trip romance. The originator, a 62-year-old widowed person with an ileostomy, met someone special while fishing. This encounter blossomed into a friendship and then a courtship, making her feel like she had found her soulmate. She shared her story to inspire others, emphasizing that an ostomy doesn't prevent you from finding love. Here's some advice and insights from the discussion:

1. Encouragement & Hope
- It's never too late to find love, regardless of age or having an ostomy.
- Love often comes when you least expect it, so stay open to possibilities in everyday life, whether through hobbies, church, or online.

2. Success Stories
- One woman was nervous about revealing her ostomy to a long-time friend, but he accepted her with unconditional love, leading to a decade-long relationship and a daughter.
- Another person met their future spouse in an online chat room after ileostomy surgery, and they have been happily married for seven years.

3. Honesty in Relationships
- The originator was praised for ending the relationship when she discovered deceit. It's important to wait for an honest partner.
- It's advised to disclose an ostomy early in a relationship with confidence, as the right person will accept it.

4. Coping with Body-Image & Sexual Concerns
- For men with urostomies or erectile dysfunction, many women value emotional connections and other forms of intimacy beyond intercourse.
- Sharing fears openly is important, as not all partners will cheat or reject you.

5. Meeting People
- Consider using ostomy forums, support groups, local meet-ups, or online ads to meet new people.
- Upgrading memberships on dating sites can help initiate contact, and long-distance relationships can be successful.

6. Self-Esteem & Presentation
- Confidence and a positive attitude are attractive qualities. Wear what makes you feel good, whether it's jeans or sweats.
- Focus on celebrating personal strengths like kindness, creativity, and faith, rather than dwelling on limitations.