New Ostomy-Very Excited

[jasonb87]

First, thanks to everyone on this discussion board. Today is my first day contributing, but I’ve been a reader for a few months now.
I am 4 weeks removed from my colostomy surgery that removed about 65% of my colon. Formerly 11 years with UC. Rarely in complete remission. No drugs ever really addressed the issues for me. I could have continued with the pain and dietary issues, but consistent anxiety of travel and social outings was taking more and more of a toll. Doctors have recommended the surgery at various times over the course of my treatment, but we just officially settled on surgery July 2019. I was anxious, but the results so far have been more than I could have dreamed.
For those considering surgery, all the best in your decision making process. Every story is different and unique and comes with its challenges. For me and my family, this has been the greatest highlight to my health journey ever. Really. The transition to an ostomy for me came with some concern and worry, but that has been relieved as I’m now living with the ostomy.

If you are considering, here are a few curiosities I had along with the answers based on my current situation.
Q: Recovery Time?
A: Surgery on Monday. I was back at work (desk job) the following Monday. I know that’s much faster than most folks. I was still sore and very careful, but I could just as easily sit at a desk and work as I could sit at home and watch TV so I went back. Now, 4 weeks out, I'm walking and jogging a good bit. I'm lifting daily life stuff (kids, laundry, groceries, etc.).
Q: Smells?
A: I have yet to have an unplanned smell coming from the bag. Maybe that day will come, but years of UC gas and discomfort was much worse. Now I control when I open or close the bag and release smells.
Q: Wear time?
A: I use 1 hollister bag and wafer per week. With a stealth belt or convatec wrap, everything seems to hold in place really well.
Q: Sounds?
A: My ostomy is active and talks throughout the day (gas and stool), but it hasn’t been an issue at all at work or in social environments. It doesn’t smell so maybe people just think my stomach is grumbling.
Q: Other?
A: I was left with a rectal “stump”. That’s the term the doctor used. It does produce mucus (rectal mucus). It has not caused urgency or issues for me. I pass it once or twice a week.
If you are considering and have other questions, please feel free to ask. Every story is different, but talking with friends that had ostomies was a significant help for me.

[Rock_Robster]

Great news Jason! Thanks for sharing.

[oliveoyl]

Hi Jason87
Your quick recovery is amazing! It sounds like you are doing really well, and have a very positive attitude. Thanks for posting to let others know about your experience.

[Roark]

This was awesome to read.

I've got my surgery in about a month and intend on it slowing me down for about a week. Then it's time to get this show on the road. Without the colon that has been trying to kill me for ten years. The whole thing. Told the doc to get it out and burn the S.O.B. I've got a life to live.

Do you wear the stealth belt all the time? I've found them and am pretty sure that is my plan. Trying to make sure it will work.

Thanks,

[jasonb87]

Hey Roark! So sorry I'm late seeing this. I'm sure things have progressed along at this point. Hopefully you've got a good system and routine down. Not sure it helps at this point, but yes! I do wear the stealth belt regularly. I also have a wrap I use that works well. If I'm going to be more active I go with the stealth belt. I hope all is well. All the best

Jason