Does anyone have a colostomy?

[JAVISI]

Dear Friends,
I have a multitude of problems. I am a 41 year old female with the Diagnosis of Myoclonal Crebellar Ataxia. So My brain does not work the greatest. I do not have a gag reflex so I am constantly fighting pneumonia due to aspiration. I have a stiff heart. My lungs ans diaphragm are only function at half the normal capasity due to weakened muscles. I have problems with weaken bladder issues. Now it seems that my bowels want to stop working! I often wonder when all of these problems will stop.

My gastro Dr seems to think that I need to have a colectomy but this time remove the entire colon, so I would have a colostomy. Almost 2 weeks ago My bowels almost ruptured due to being so full. I spent 4 days in the hospital. I am just waiting for it to happen again. I know then that Iwill need to have the surgery. I am aNurse, or I should say that I used to be, when I was able to work. I took care of people that had colostomies. I am fighting it but yet I know that in the near future that will be my only option.

I was just wondering how you felt after you had surgery. Some people could eventually have a revision but I will not have that option since my entire colon will be removed.

Sorry, I know that this was more of a vent but I would love to get some replies!
Dreaming Big and Reaching for the Stars! Javisi

[artycarrie]

my mum has an ilieostomy and uses a forum called the IA forum.

heres the link

http://www.the-ia.org.uk/forum/default.asp

go there and register becaus eth epeople on there are amzing and were so supportive to my mum.

they will tell the the stuff the docs dont about surgery and the aftermath ad also tell you about how to manage with an ostomy and tips and trick on products, care and also have a fun time with them on the forum (watch out for little annie, thats my mum,)

[moose53]

((((((Laurie)))))),

You might want to read this: http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/real-life-stories/2007/10/15/life-changed-when-i-lost-my-large-intestine-86908-19952223/

It might just be the "other direction" that you were looking for.

BIG HUGS.

Barb http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v90/moose53/MINIS/HUGS/amixcora.gif

[artycarrie]

mum told me the forum is only for iliostomies and pouchs but if you just go on to the site you may find links for colostomy support and info.
also try the forums on bbc ouch website. theres a few people with ostomies on there too.

www.bbc.co.uk/ouch

then go to the forums