I had bowel resection surgery on Sept 23. I now have an ileostomy. I have been home from hospital now for 2 weeks and feeling stronger each day. I have homecare nursing for now and they have been changing my appliance for me. They will start getting me involved in this procedure this week.(ugh)..I am feeling really anxious about
this. So far I have been dealing ok with it (I think). I had vaginal prolapse surgery in 2001 and a repeat of this in 2006. The first surgery had let go and the mesh they used fell into my bowels. When they repeated this procedure in 2006, they saw the mesh in the bowel, but decided to leave it there, thinking it would not cause me any problems. HA! I have had major bowel problems due to the mesh puncturing holes all through my bowels and internal organs (appendix etc). I was bleeding alot (daily) from bowels, and was so constipated I could not have a bm at all without mega doses of laxatives. This went on for over a year. Needless to say I felt like h---. I am now so very grateful for this little bag on my side, if it means I can feel good again, and have some enjoyment to life.
It has been such a long time. I am married and have such a strong loving supporter in my husband. I am truly blessed. This is not how I envisioned my life to be (sporting a bag), but if it means I can have a good quality of life...then I am thankful.
Thanks for letting me get this out. I have been feeling rather isolated since I had my surgery, and am really happy to have found this site. 