This topic is about someone seeking prayers and support as they navigate a series of medical challenges, including an upcoming colonoscopy and ongoing bowel issues. Here’s a breakdown of their journey and some advice they’ve shared:

- The person had a consultation with a French-speaking gastrointestinal specialist on May 10 to arrange a routine colonoscopy. This was particularly important due to unexplained discharge from the residual anus, and they hoped to avoid further surgery.

- During the May 10 consultation, the doctor was not overly concerned about the discharge, and a colonoscopy was scheduled for five weeks later.

- On June 15, the colonoscopy was performed under a short general anesthetic, and biopsies were taken. The results showed localized inflammatory areas, and they were waiting to see if it was due to an infection.

- By June 24, they were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) in the isolated rectum and the first 10 cm of the colon. They began a one-month medication regimen.

- The treatment involved taking daily oral mesalazine powder sachets and using rectal mesalazine in the evenings. Initially, there was a fear of a fistula, but this was later ruled out.

- Between July and August, they experienced a UC pain flare, possibly due to a partial blockage worsened by dehydration. A short colonoscopy was planned but postponed as they were caring for their wife.

- Their wife was dealing with recurrent diverticulitis, an abscess near the uterus, and severe pain, leading to multiple hospitalizations and heavy antibiotics. A full colonoscopy failed, and a colectomy was advised.

- The wife's surgery was moved forward, with pre-op on January 30 and the colectomy on February 2. The surgery was successful, no stoma was created, and a large midline incision was stapled. She was discharged home but experienced constipation for three days.

- They continue to request prayers for both of them as they manage UC control, potential future colonoscopies, and the wife's post-operative recovery.

Advice shared includes:

1. Avoid overwhelming yourself with online self-diagnosis. Use the internet for background information only.
2. Press your doctors for clear explanations and next-step plans if you are uncertain about your medical situation.