Loossing the will to live.

Hello, I believe you'd mentioned interest in hearing from others who have had surgery. And, I believe others have said that you'll know if/when the time is right -- which I could only agree with. I dealt with UC for 8+ yrs and often times felt that my symptoms were not nearly as severe as many who have posted here. However, about 1 yr ago things got to the point where I was ready to hop the first gurney that passed be by -- things got worse and fast. I decided to try Remicade which didn't do the trick. I wasn't entirely dissappointed because I wanted off medication altogether. I opted for surgery a few months ago and underwent a total proctocoloctomy (whatever they call it :) and now have an illeostomy. I've witnessed others with a stoma and bagging system so it's not so unusual to me. I'm learning the ins and outs of the bagging system; how to prep, how to install, how to care for, etc. and I feel that I can get used to it. Everyone is different of course. I was in the hospital 6 nights and required 6 weeks off work to recover well-enough to return. I tanked for awhile during that time; low BP, possible malabsorbtion, possible dehydration. It was frustrating because I couldn't figure out what was wrong, but I now believe what some ave said -- if you're sick for a long time before surgery, recover time may be longer. I, too, have children -- only one but the joy of my life. Being able to enjoy being with himand being able to be there for him is extremely important to me. My wife and being able to spend quality time with her and our family as a whole is also important to me. I weighed the pros and cons, have no regrets, and will never look back. I'm at work with no concerns of urgency and no discomfort, and I stopped fasting on what seemed like a daily basis because I was afraid that the symptoms would worsen at work in particular. Periodically, I have some "urge" (to go) because of what remains of the rectal stump which I believe is inflamed. After years of watching FoodTv and trying to *imagine* what some food tastes like, I've made some modest road trips just to try something tasty. I'm ready to drive further because 50 miles to the next rest stop no longer frightens me :) For me, it's been a game changer. For me, the pros OUTWEIGH the cons. Knowing that surgery was an option was consoling. I wish you the best!!!

Yes, for me, the urge does subside relatively quickly (although I sometime have to sit down in the restroom to let it pass.) Discharge can occur and, I believe, could be greater depending upon the length of the rectal stump if inflamed.

I have had a reverse of symptoms overnight from diet, but sadly it did not last.

Ha ha! Its what is left over when they take your butt hole out. Although I have a really hard time with taking a hole out, its a hole! Since I have a perm ileo its just sewn shut down there. Its a little weird and was probably the hardest thing to come to terms with. When you have a jpouch they strip the lining out, so the uc is gone, but leave it open.