This topic is about a young person who has been dealing with severe constipation since they were a baby. This condition is so debilitating that it keeps them at home and unable to work. After trying many treatments without success, doctors have suggested a permanent ostomy as a way to improve their quality of life. The person is reaching out to others who have had similar experiences to find out if having an ostomy has given them more freedom.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Quality of Life Improvements
- Many people with ostomies report feeling more secure when leaving the house and have been able to resume normal activities like traveling and dating. Some even say their life improved significantly after the surgery.
- While the initial months after surgery can be challenging, most people adapt and eventually go about their daily activities without much thought about their ostomy.

2. Irrigation and Procedure Choice
- A descending colostomy with regular irrigation might help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation, offering more predictable control.
- If possible, keeping the colon and rectum intact might allow for future reversal if a cause or cure is found.

3. Permanence and Seeking Opinions
- It's important to question why doctors believe the ostomy must be permanent, especially if no organs are currently diseased or removed.
- Consider getting another opinion from a high-volume medical center to explore all surgical options.

4. Choosing the Right Surgeon
- Select a skilled colorectal surgeon who has experience with stomas and reversals. Proper stoma placement is crucial to prevent leaks.

5. Research and Preparation
- Learn as much as possible about living with an ostomy through websites, videos, and forums before making a decision.
- Be prepared for the possibility that surgical findings might change the initial plan.

6. Perspective and Encouragement
- Medical advancements happen quickly, so having a stoma now doesn't rule out future improvements or the possibility of reversal.
- Many people who didn't have a choice about getting an ostomy say it's not as daunting as it seems and can be empowering when your current quality of life is very low.