The topic is about someone who has just found out they will be having permanent ileostomy surgery in six days. This news has left them feeling shocked, scared, and unprepared. They are worried about how they will look and how others will react to them after the surgery. The surgery is necessary because their entire colon was removed a year ago, and they are not a candidate for a J-pouch. Despite the short notice, they believe they will get through it.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others who have been through similar experiences:

1. Emotional Support & Mind-set
- It's normal to feel scared, but remember that life can improve quickly after surgery. Many people have had emergency or short-notice surgeries and have adapted well.
- Allow yourself to feel your emotions and take recovery one step at a time. Stay positive and reach out to family, friends, your surgeon, or a counselor for support.

2. Recovery Tips
- Start walking as soon as the nurses say it's okay, as it helps speed up healing.
- Make sure to rest enough before going back to work or your usual activities.

3. Professional & Peer Resources
- Work closely with an ostomy or wound-ostomy-continence nurse (WOCN) who can teach you how to change your appliance and help with any skin issues.
- Find a local ostomy support group or wound-care clinic for ongoing help.
- Watch videos made by ostomates on YouTube for practical advice and reassurance.

4. Stoma Construction
- Ask your surgeon to make sure the stoma protrudes at least 1 inch, as this can help with sealing and reduce skin problems.

5. Supplies & Product Trials
- You don't have to stick with the pouching system the hospital gives you. Contact major vendors for free samples and try different products to find what works best for you.
- Keep a log of what you eat, the consistency of your output, how long you can wear your appliance, and your skin condition to help find the best products and dietary patterns.

6. Daily Living
- An ostomy is usually not noticeable to others, and you can choose who to tell and when.
- Once healed, you can still travel, swim, exercise, date, and enjoy a full life.
- There are discreet clothing lines like "Ostomy Secrets" that can help conceal a pouch under everyday outfits.

7. Reassurance
- Many people report being pain-free, active, and even forgetting about their ostomy within a few months.
- You are not alone; there is a community ready to answer any specific questions you have about recovery, products, diet, or lifestyle.