The adventure continues.
As I posted previously, retaining a rectal stump long term causes trouble.
A recap: Last December, about 2 years post-op, my rectal stump became inflamed and began bleeding. This, of course, freaked me out a little. Blood discharging... where it should not. I consulted with my most excellent gastroenterologist. He didn't share the concern I had. He examined my stump wi ...

What's the best solution for redness and irritation around the stoma before applying the wafer.

So, as of lately, it has been exactly one year since I have had my urostomy that has saved my life from bladder cancer. I've been so afraid to change up my daily routines, but with a year looking in my rearview mirror, I have been enjoying 2 or 3 times a week taking my shower and removing my appliance after I do my hair and after I wash up! So, as not to get any lotions on Minnie!
I remove my ...

Hi everyone,

I'm almost four months post-ileostomy surgery, and I'm looking to start rebuilding my core strength. I haven't been able to exercise for years, so I'm starting from scratch and want to be really careful.

One of my biggest concerns is overdoing it and increasing my risk of a hernia. I know core strength is important, but I'm not sure what exercises are safe to begin with. ...

I was rushed into emergency surgery on Feb 23 this year . At first I didn’t think I could cope with the mess. I have found products that make it easier. At first I cried constantly. Now I can shower without a tape covering.
I still hate the ostomy but I’m not crying all the time. My family has been wonderful helping with everything. The back up support is vital.

I just had my ileostomy surgery, and I have never felt so overwhelmed like this in a long time. Talking to someone who has some tips, knowledge, and supportive advice would be a literal lifesaver.
Just to let this community know that I can get along with pretty much anyone.
May blessings come your way to all of you.🫂

Question- How long does it take you to change your bag? I’ve had my ileostomy for a month and it’s getting easier with each change.
I know there’s no rush, but just wondering.
I last timed myself at 15mins. I was more prepared and my stoma was quiet n cooperative.

The previous change took me 45 mins, due to constant stoma activity. It was a hot MESS!!‍

She says she can fix the stoma, no problem, and will try to fix the parastomal hernia. We will see; I am hopeful. My surgery is outpatient, so I'll be home later today!

The Big Scare
At church today, Mrs. B suffered a terrible calamity. One that rendered her temporarily speechless. A church friend behind me reached over to wish me a happy Easter and shake my hand. I leaned over to bid him holiday wishes too. Mrs. B nudged my leg. She was pointing toward my pants zipper. Hmmmm. Did I forget to pull it up? Nooo.
Then she hissed, "Your thingy is showing." "Thin ...

Has anyone had a colostomy because you couldn't expel stool through the ano-rectal passage due to your pelvic floor muscles contracting rather than relaxing when you wanted to poop? If so, has it worked out for you? Any challenges or complications? Did you get it reversed at some point or do you hope to get it reversed? What are you doing to see if you can reverse it? I know it's a lot of ques ...

Hi all, I know IRA surgery isn't performed as much as J-pouch, but I still have 10 inches left of sigmoid colon and a current end ileostomy. Last week, I had scopes and was told everything looked great and if I wanted to pursue surgery I should. I saw Dr. Remzi in NYC last year and discussed a J-pouch, but he never mentioned an IRA which suggests to me that he preferred a J-pouch since that's ...