Preparing for ileostomy surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when you're also dealing with a major health issue like ovarian cancer. The goal is to make sure you have everything you need at home for a smooth recovery, especially since you'll be on your own after leaving the hospital. Here are some practical tips and advice to help you get ready:

1. Diet right after surgery:
- For the first 4-6 weeks, focus on bland, low-fiber, and easy-to-digest foods like white bread, white rice, mashed potatoes, plain pasta, broths, cooked cereals, and applesauce.
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, popcorn, and other roughage until your healthcare provider gives you the green light. When you do start reintroducing these foods, do so one at a time and in small amounts.
- Over time, you should be able to tolerate most foods, but it's best to test them gradually.
- Increase your fluid intake to about twice what you drank before surgery to prevent dehydration, as you'll lose more fluids with an ileostomy.

2. Securing professional help:
- In many U.S. hospitals, a WOC (Wound-Ostomy-Continence) nurse is arranged by the facility, and insurance often covers a certain number of home visits. Ask your surgeon or discharge planner to set up a referral before you leave the hospital.
- Keep a printed or written step-by-step guide for changing your pouch in the bathroom. It can be very reassuring when you're new to the process.

3. Starter supplies and sample sources:
- Before surgery, contact major manufacturers like Coloplast, Hollister, and ConvaTec to request their free "welcome" or "care" kits. These usually include sample pouches, barrier rings/wafers, adhesive remover spray, skin-prep/barrier wipes, measuring guides, disposal bags, and instructional materials.
- These companies can also send additional free samples of specific products you might want to try.
- Check out www.ostomy.org for local, regional, and national support groups and conferences.

4. Products members found useful:
- Coloplast SenSura Mio one-piece pouching system.
- Adhesive removal spray (any brand) for painless appliance changes.
- Barrier wipes for skin protection if irritation occurs.
- Waterproof mattress cover or disposable bed pads for peace of mind during the learning phase.

5. Practical tips from lived experience:
- Watch instructional videos online about pouch changing and general ostomy care. Seeing the process repeatedly can help reinforce what you learn in the hospital.
- Be prepared for the emotional impact. The initial shock is normal, but know that the routine will become second nature within weeks.
- Use online forums to ask questions and share your experiences. They can be a great source of support and information.