This topic is about someone who has been living with an ileostomy after colorectal cancer treatment and is now considering whether to undergo a reversal surgery. They are feeling nervous about how this change might affect their lifestyle and are looking for advice from others who have been in a similar situation.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Successful outcomes are possible. Some people have had excellent results after reversal surgery, whether after cancer treatment or for other conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis.

2. The suitability of a reversal depends on the specific surgery you had and which part of the intestine will be reconnected. Your individual anatomy and medical history are important factors to consider.

3. It's important to ask your surgeon key questions, such as:
- What level of bowel control can be expected after the reconnection? Is there a risk of urgency or accidents?
- Will there be a need to stay close to a bathroom?

4. Post-reversal issues like constipation can occur, but they are often manageable with medication.

5. Thoroughly research the procedure and discuss all possibilities with both your surgeon and internist before making a decision.

6. One person shared their experience of having chronic diarrhea after treatment, which only resolved after getting a colostomy. Feeling healthier now, they are less eager to reverse it. Waiting until your overall health, lifestyle, and confidence are aligned can be a reasonable choice.

7. The general consensus is to weigh the benefits of living without an ostomy against the potential surgical risks and post-reversal bowel-function challenges. Consider how ready you are for another major operation and how it might affect your quality of life.