Hi there
just checking in to wish Dillon all the best. Anthony is now 8 weeks post op from the third and final j pouch surgery. It has been a slippery slope but it seems as though he is beginning to turn the corner. I am writing to tell you that you must remind yourself and your son that patience is in order after this surgery. Don't expect miracles right away. Make sure you have the butt burn cream from the very start - it is crucial in the beginning. Anthony was very discouraged initally, but it IS getting better now. Be prepared for a little slower recovery and know that that is normal. That said, he is back to work just about full time and is gradually able to eat more and more. He initially lost a good amount of weight after the third surgery, but seems to be stabilizing now. Even though the dreaded ostomy bag is gone (!!!!!) there is still an adjustment to the pouch. I can truthfully advise you to try to measure improvement by the week, and not by the day. He had the surgery on Nov 7 and then had a complication two weeks later. So, Thanksgiving was still tough, but the difference between Thanksgivng and Xmas was very encouraging. He is defnitely trending up. I write mostly to tell you to be patient and know that though it might be tough in the beginning, it does get better. A lot better :)
Everything that has happened and that we have learned is too long to fit into an email, but you are most welcome to contact me at anytime at [email protected]. If you have specific questions, we are full of answers. We wll both have Dillon in out thoughts this week. Good luck and please keep us posted and don't hesitate to contact us - if you want a phone # to call, just email me
Maria