Posted 1/13/2010 2:02 PM (GMT 0)
Collicat - Anthony's surgery was three stages as well and his surgeon insisted from the start to do it this way. He was emphatic about his experiences between two and three stage, stating that down the road, the three stages surgery showed a higher success rate. I know Dillon must be upset - this is so much for them to go through at such an early stage in life.But when you think about it - it does make sense to have the pouch there for a while to heal (and make sure there are no leaks) before he starts to use it. I know it seems like such an ordeal getting through to the next stage, but in the long run I think it will make things better for dillon as he goes forward.
BUT.....I did want to update since my last post. Suddenly Anthony has come alive and is doing quite well - the frequency (with the help of lomotil and immodium) has slowed down some, the loop ileostomy incision has finally closed and he in general is just feeling better. His energy is good and he is basically "adjusting". In the past two weeks, something really seems to have clicked and he is feeling much more hopeful and encouraged. I know the same will happen for Dillon. If you ever want to put dillon in touch with him, just say the word - he is not all that much older than him and I'm sure he can really understand what he is going through.
The loop ileostomy can be a little trickier that the other ostomy - don't hesitate to get a home nurse to stop in if you can. He will probably need different supplies. Be prepared that the bag might not stay on as long as the first one. And watch out for the skin around it. None of this is serious if you are prepared. A lot of times the surgeons don't tell you this simply because they don't know all that much once you get home.
Good luck and try to stay positive. As hard as it is when you are going through it, remind yourself that it will be over soon. and it will!