New Here

[bagger]

I didn't see anywhere on the forum for new members to introduce themselves. I suppose no one wants to have body parts removed so they can be a member and come on here and introduce themselves as a new member but I just wanted to say hello.

I have had bladder cancer and couldn't seem to eradicate it and finally had it removed and now I have a bag (ostomy). This is a real continuing trauma for me and it took a lot for me to even come on this forum and I am not sure I should even be here as all of the posts I have seen seem to be different than my problem. Anyway, this is just a totally depressing situation for me (as I'm sure it is for many of you) but I continually try to remember that my alternative was below ground and I am sure all of you had the same alternative.

So hello and best wishes to all.

bagger

[Button]

Hello Bagger:

Warm welcome.

I am sorry that you have had to have a urostomy to have "earned" membership to this forum, but I am glad that you are here. It is a nice group of people, always offering a healing hand. You are among friends here.

It is true that the forum is more representative of individuals with an ileostomy or a colonostomy than a urostomy. That being the case, we all have a rerouted portion of intestine and a stoma in common. There are several members with urostomies. You may want to post of the general forum as well, as the Beyond the Pouch section is less visited (sort of like Siberia).

The first several weeks/months with an ostomy can be emotionally trying. Be gentle with yourself and come here for support and comfort. Post-surgery involves both physical healing of the wound and emotional healing in adjusting and adapting, both are equally important.

Let us know how we can help you.

I wish you well,
- Karen -

[Sandywr]

welcome to this site. There are so many great people here to help you out with any questions you might have. Remember that you can ask anything you want. If they can't help you, they will tell you. Just know that it does get easier. Is Bagger the name of your stoma? We name ours and I really like the name Bagger. Mine is The Dude after The Big Lebowski. Again welcome and I hope that things go smoothly for you. Sandy

[smashms]

Welcome bagger. I also have a urostomy or ileal conduit. Any questions go ahead and ask away. You are certain to get answers. Be prepared to have leaks everyone does it is the normal learning curve. Once you have a setup that works for you and you are consistently getting 3-4 days out of a change stick with it. My WOCN told me less is more so keep that in mind when there are issues go back to your process of changing, meaning do the less steps possible and it usually gives you the best result.

[bagger]

I am really surprised that I have 3 replies. Thank you to the 3 of you.

Hello back to you Karen and thank you for your reply. I will try the general section as I have a couple of questions.

Hello Sandy and thanks for your reply. I guess bagger was just intended to be my user name as that's what I am now. I never even thought of naming my stoma but I don't think it even deserves a name.

Hello smashms and thanks for your response.

Thank you again to the 3 of you for answering my post.

bagger

[oliveoyl]

Hi Bagger,
The first days, then weeks, then months after an ostomy operation are a time when we go through the whole spectrum of feelings and emotions. We have all been there, and we know what you are going through. There is shock, and depression, and then a long learning curve when you are learning how to pouch your stoma, and what appliances or products work best for you.

Please know this....it is going to get better. It took me a full nine months to heal, and you must allow yourself time to heal, physically and mentally. You've been through a traumatic, life changing, body-altering event. Treat yourself kindly and gently, and don't try to rush things. Time will go by, and things will get better. Be sure to post on the main board, as often as you need to. Good luck.

[Sinfulsot]

Welcome. There are a few uro's