This topic is about someone who has had a colostomy for six months and is looking for friendship, practical support, and guidance. Living in Minnesota without close friends and having family far away, they feel isolated and are seeking connections with people who understand what living with an ostomy is like. They are unsure how to find these connections and are considering placing an "ad" to meet others.

Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

1. You've made a great start by posting in the forum. Keep engaging by posting more, browsing topics, and reading past discussions to find shared experiences.

2. Check out the real-time chat room on the site. It might have a quirky format, but it's a good place to meet fellow ostomates informally.

3. Consider writing a blog on the site. Many members will relate to your experiences and respond with support.

4. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, no matter how small. The community is here to help.

5. Look for in-person contact through local ostomy support groups:
- Visit www.ostomy.org (United Ostomy Associations of America, UOAA) and click on "Support Groups" to find the nearest group.
- If groups aren't immediately visible, call every group within a 100-mile radius. Talking to even one ostomate can be a huge relief.
- Members in the Twin Cities have had positive experiences with local groups and encourage attending.

6. Explore UOAA national resources. The national conference offers workshops, exhibits, and social events where you can meet many ostomates and vendors.

7. Remember, everyone here was once new and overwhelmed. Use the community to vent, laugh, or cry—people will understand.

8. Many members offer personal one-on-one support. Once you become a paid member, private messaging becomes available for exchanging phone numbers or email.

9. Consider adopting a mindset similar to AA’s “sponsor” idea. Pairing with a more experienced ostomate can help speed up learning and acceptance.

10. Keep perspective: a colostomy is a major life change, but it also represents a second chance at life. Many members who are months or years out report thriving.