Topic Explanation
The forum topic is centered around an individual seeking to connect with others who have experienced Hirschsprung's Disease and its complications, including multiple surgeries and living with an ostomy. The original poster shares their personal journey, detailing their struggles with surgeries from childhood to adulthood, complications such as hernias and scar tissue, and the challenges of adjusting to life with a colostomy. They express frustration with their medical care and the lack of understanding from their healthcare provider regarding the severity of their condition and its impact on their lifestyle, particularly their inability to perform physically demanding jobs.
Advice and Helpful Insights from Replies
1. Legal and Disability Assistance:
- Consider hiring a lawyer to help navigate the process of applying for disability benefits, especially since the system can be challenging and illogical. It's important to note that you cannot apply for disability if you are currently employed.
2. Ostomy Care Tips:
- To potentially increase the wear time of the ostomy appliance and manage frequent changes, explore using Eakin rings and a convex flange. These products might help achieve a better seal.
- If there is insufficient colon left for irrigation, which could help decrease leaks since there would be less material to leak, this might not be a viable option.
3. Support and Community Engagement:
- Engage with others who have similar experiences through forums, emails, or chats. This can provide emotional support and practical advice from those who understand the challenges of living with Hirschsprung's Disease and an ostomy.
- Some forum members are willing to assist with facilitating membership to support groups or forums, which could be beneficial for ongoing support and information sharing.
4. Awareness and Education:
- There is a suggestion to increase public awareness and education about ostomies and related conditions by encouraging media coverage, such as television programs, which could help reduce stigma and improve understanding among the general public.
5. Personal Experiences and Outcomes:
- Sharing personal experiences with surgeries and life post-ostomy can provide insights into managing complications such as constipation and the emotional impact of living with an ostomy, including effects on personal relationships and self-image.
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