Topic Explanation:
The initial post is from a university student, Hamish, who underwent emergency surgery for colitis and now has an ostomy. He is anxious about returning to university, concerned about potential bag leaks, missing classes due to bag changes, and meeting people with the ostomy. He seeks advice from others who have returned to university after surgery and how they managed similar concerns.

Advice and Insights:
- Mike Q shares his experience of having surgery with a permanent ileostomy before starting university and emphasizes that it is scary and overwhelming but assures that he made excellent friends.
- Bill offers support and reassures Hamish that his concerns are normal, drawing from his own experience of attending college and university while dealing with incontinence.
- A forum member encourages Hamish to change the bag in the morning, minimize fears of leakage, and approach university from a new perspective, emphasizing the progress and improvement in health.
- Another member advises Hamish to be conscious of checking the bag's fullness, eat smaller, easily digestible meals, and carry a survival kit for potential bag blow-outs.
- Hamish provides updates on his university experience, including managing the ostomy and facing physical discomfort, receiving support and encouragement from the forum members to keep going despite the challenges.
- The forum members continue to offer support and encouragement to Hamish, acknowledging the difficulties of university life and providing practical tips for managing the ostomy.

Insights:
- The forum discussion provides a supportive environment for Hamish to share his concerns and receive advice and encouragement from others who have faced similar challenges.
- Members share their own experiences and practical tips for managing the ostomy at university, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adapting to the new circumstances.