Sigmoid Colectomy: My Story.

The account of my illness and my surgery.

[@grdelawter4266]

Your story is inspirational. You showed courage in the midst of despair even when you received bad diagnosis and repeated dead end. You showed tenacity. You remained steadfast. You also showed transparency and compassion in telling your story. You showed faith. This reminds me of a story that I’d like to share, please don’t dismiss this since we’ve all heard it. Meditate on it. Dwell in it. Let it resonate with you. 1. The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

[@raknoknak]

The colonoscopy CAUSED the Diverticulitis. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7958466/

[@bermudarailway]

It's just a shame the Lord doesn't stop diverticulitis.

[@Angela-el3gp]

I'm having sigmoid resection surgery in the next 2 months. Glad I seen this😊

[@gwentrahan]

October 2022 I underwent colon resection after years of diverticulitis flares. Had a large abscessed portion of my sigmoid removed. Was the best thing I could’ve had done! Next month will be a year and I’m forever grateful.

[@jpl8085]

I have had a few flare ups since i was first diagnosed with diverticulitis in 2020 at 39 yrs old. Early this year i was in the hospital due to a small abscess. I am scheduled for sigmoid resection in December. I am nervous but also sick of worrying about flare ups so i feel i need to do this.

[@fairyg4307]

Having surgery in a week thank you makes me feel better I’m so scared

[@chrishayes962]

​@fairyg4307 how was it?

[@jameskirby9369]

I just had the surgery 4 days ago and I’m healing quick!!! Make sure you stay as active as you can. I’ve been walking for a half hour three times a day and I believe that’s why I’m healing so quickly!!

[@sandraaune6681]

I like seeing encouraging stories. They've been telling me I need this surgery and I keep putting it off because I was so scared.

[@fortyfour6626]

@@sandraaune6681 you are my hero. Not kidding. I had 6 feet removed out of nowhere with no real telling symptoms until hours before it ruptured. Had I known.. or had to plan it… I’m not sure I would have had the courage. The anticipation must be incredibly trying. I pray, hope, wish you the best. Just get it done Saundra!!! If my sorry ass can make it through it, you surely can.

[@bryankasper6916]

I just had mine yesterday, its rough. Should be much better in the long run. A lot of co workers know people that have had this same surgery and also had zero issues since.​@sandraaune6681

[@jules8430]

⁠@@sandraaune6681 I was so scared too, but knew I had no choice. I’m nearing my 2nd week after & grateful I had it done. Wishing you the best ❤️‍🩹

[@chrishayes962]

​@@sandraaune6681I'm scared too

[@connections16]

Thank you for the video, I was just diagnosed with acute diverticulitis. This gives me hope for my pain

[@jerylpinkert3418]

I just went through the same surgery six days ago. I have been plagued with bouts of diverticulitis for the past eight years. I had three bouts in the last eight months and this last one refused to heal. I was on antibiotics for two months and it never got better. My surgeon removed the infected section of my sigmoid colon and I am now on the mend. So happy that your nightmare is over, the road to recovery will be sweet.

[@illestmaxima]

I just found your videos after I got my sigmoid colectomy surgery a few days ago (got surgery on 4/2 and I’m home now 4/4) and I just want to thank you for sharing your story. I had a similar issue with mine where it would keep coming back, no matter what positive change I would do and that’s why I chose to go with the elective surgery. Once again, thank you for sharing your story!

[@raknoknak]

Did you have a colonoscopy before too? I have seen many cases like this before.

[@illestmaxima]

Yeah, generally a colonoscopy is often required by the surgeon to see how much they’ll have to cut before they get you in the operating room. I’m 3 weeks out of my surgery and I feel about 80% good. Still have minor pains but my limited diet was removed and now I have no limitations. There’s an awesome Reddit subgroup specifically for diverticulitis. I highly recommend it. (I post on there frequently)

[@raknoknak]

@@illestmaxima Thank you.. will check it out.

[@fairyg4307]

Having my surgery in a week

[@mikenewsome4465]

How long before you went back to work and normal life

[@sunset6010]

I'm so sorry MR. One good thing: It happened NOW when everything is open & meds are available. Complete healing for you MR 🕯

[@ModernRefugee]

Definitely. Without a functioning medical system I would have died of the infection.

[@northerngirlhobbies]

Amen to that.

[@siamesejasmine]

I just came out of the hospital a few weeks ago from my SECOND partial colectomy and resection within 5.5 years. After the first surgery, the surgeon told me there was only a 3% chance I’d have another diverticulitis attack and have to have the surgery again. I had a few minor attacks, but I went on antibiotics and they cleared up. I had my last attack in December of 2023 and it was a perforation. Thank goodness, after a brief hospital stay with fluids and antibiotics, that one cleared up as well. However, to eliminate the risk of another attack and perforation, I had to have the surgery again. I was lucky. Both surgeries were performed lapriscopically. I’m healing fine, but the gas pains from reintroducing fibrous food are excruciating! I hope you have not had any further issues after your surgery!

[@marygallagher3428]

Very glad to hear the surgery went so well!

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@cinnamongurl8102]

Bless your heart, what a journey for you. Healing is huge deal, people don't understand. I had a hystertomy in 1987 and I was told not to.lift anything over #5, I followed orders. I was 12 days out of procedure, went grocery shopping & pickup a gallon of milk and immediately felt the tear & pain. It was awful. Take the the healing time, your body needs it. Hugs, my friend.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you

[@michaezell4607]

@@ModernRefugee I underwent a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy back in october of last year with the only real post op complications being an abdominal abscess and chronic diarrhea. I also had to go through a brief period of time where I was supposed to avoid lifting heavy objects to avoid the risk of a hernia but now I'm pretty much back to normal.

[@kristita_888]

Oh my goodness. I have diverticulitis as well, but have never experienced a perforation. I know how bad a simple flare can hurt - I cannot imagine the pain you were in with a perforation, peritonitis, and a stricture. I truly hope that this resection will provide permanent relief for you. May you be blessed with good health and healing, in Jesus’ name! ❤

[@raknoknak]

Did you have a colonoscopy before?

[@noncompliance1922]

Your story is quite similar to mine with regard to symptoms. I have stage 3 cancer with a very small tumor in my colon which caused me to have some serious blockages. Emergency surgery was done December 30 and I now have a colostomy. I'm hoping to start my chemo again very soon and move forward with my treatments. If things go well, I should be finished with them by May. I'm hoping for a reversal of the colostomy too. If you have ever had anything similar, you know how painful this type of condition can be. I am so happy to know you are on the mend, MR.

[@ModernRefugee]

You take care of yourself. I had a friend that had diverticulitis while on chemotherapy. It was a setback, but he got trough it.

[@deborahtyler6567]

I have had diverticulitis for 15 years. Had the sigmoid removed in 2013. 11 years later had diverticulitis in the remaining bowel after a sac perforated. Very scary thing to have explosive diarrhea for days and days and blood loss. Good narration of your experience. Good luck.

[@jacquiesuper2200]

Praise God you are healing. So glad this is hopefully over for you.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@Fritz0616]

You were very lucky my step mother has diverticulitis she was working and all of sudden had severe pain .. her colon blew a hole before she reached the phone to call the ambulance.. she went septic, had 2-strokes while in coma and passed away she was 59yrs old.. Im so glad you went and got checked soon enough that you didnt suffer the same fate..

[@ModernRefugee]

That’s terrible, I’m sorry for your loss.

[@Fritz0616]

@@ModernRefugee ~Very kind of you this was 20 yrs ago.

[@shaneinman9985]

Greetings from NC & thank You for posting this. I have had the same struggle since the week of Labor Day. Your journey sounds so much like what I have gone through. My surgery is scheduled for December 27th. When I heard all of this, and that date in your post, it really resonated with me and has eased some of my concern and anxiety about the surgery by seeing you doing so well one week post op.

[@KathysTube]

Wow... what an adventure! Happy that you're healing and heading towards good health again... Thanks for sharing your experience 🤗❤️

[@margaretm1606]

Thank you so much for sharing your colon story. It sounded like a nightmare. I'm so happy for you that everything worked out well. May you continue to have the most benevolent outcome going forward.

[@feliciajones9505]

Thank You for sharing I go for my surgery tomorrow went through the same thing…I can’t wait to feel better diverticulitis is no joke…Thank You you given me hope ❤

[@Ken_oh545]

As a bloke in late 50s with elective bowel surgery coming up it is terrifying! I have been in hospital after fights, getting my arm caught on a spiked railing, a sports concussion, motorbike accidents and stuff like that, that is all ok, but having planned surgery....oh my days. A concurrent trouble is some cardiac issues (ICD, history of arrhythmia) and the anaesthetist is worried about me because of all that. Good luck to everyone reading this thread, I guess nobody is on who doesnt have some medical problem!

[@ModernRefugee]

You take care Sir. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[@Ken_oh545]

​@ModernRefugee many thanks for your gracious reply. Went in for my surgery mid-Feb, it went very well until it ended when I suffered a seizure and was re-sedated. On waking up I was relieved to find no ileostomy but I was hallucinating and experienced a 90° visual rotation so the horizontal plane appeared to me a vertical plane, happily this lasted only 48 hours. My ventricular tachycardia then kicked in big time and one day I suffered maybe 20 shocks from my ICD, properly started to think it would be my final day on earth but medics whacked some potassium Chloride in, it quietened down, they put me on Amiodarone and haven't had any shock in 3 weeks since that day. Getting blood test for thyroid/pulmonary/hepatic function in 2 days as is necessary when on that drug which is a 'last resort ' medication. Stomach/abdominal pain has been surprisingly low and function is not far off normal. Pathology revealed a small T1 cancer on the bit that was chopped out and that no cancer was detected in lymph nodes. Quite a rough ride but could have been a lot worse and now keeping fingers crossed for next months and years. We all have different experiences- all the best with yours

[@Ken_oh545]

The other thing I wanted to mention : in UK we get a Bowel screening / test kit through the post on our 56th birthday, as a result of this I know about 5 people who were in my year at school or university who have had to get the same or similar surgery. It is NOT uncommon by any means. Being in UK we get this medical treatment on the National Health Service so it doesn't cost us a penny, that is the upside to living in UK. (There may be others but I cannot think of them right now).

[@stephcave30]

I go in on Wednesday to get a 12 in section of my sigmoid removed. I too had colonoscopies and no signs of this then boom! I had a perforation from diverticulitis then they find a stricture too! It really helps me to see you doing so well 7 days in, because I am terrified.

[@ModernRefugee]

You have my prayers for a complete a speedy recovery. Take care.

[@fortyfour6626]

How are you today? How is your recovery?

[@monkeyfoodgarden]

Pray for a speedy full recovery for yourself. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@ModernRefugee]

Your welcome.

[@the_bowiekid]

I had Sigmoid Volvulus ! It was absolutely TERRIFYING !! omg the abdominal pain I felt was like Nightmare on Elm Street with Freddy Krueger twisting and tearing up the insides of my stomach. It was life-threatening and had I not went to the ER I would’ve died ! I had a great healthcare team and an amazing surgeon. They saved my life ! My surgery was successful. I was told by the doctors it was over 4.5 hours long of operation, it was extremely complex. There wasn’t a guarantee I’d survive the surgery. But I did ! At 32 years-old. I’m truly blessed and thankful. I love watching other ppls stories about similar experiences. I’m in week 11 of my recovery, it’s gonna be a while before I’m fully back to normal. I have good days and bad days dealing with soreness, but I’m healing up very well and expect to be stronger than ever very soon !

[@PreppingWithSarge]

Go easy brother. Within 6 months you will be able to do 99% of what you did pre-op. Went through this a few years ago. First 30 days were tough, then it started getting easier. I did end up retiring from martial arts, but other than that, can do everything I did before the surgery. Even most of the “no eat” foods I can tolerate again.

[@ModernRefugee]

I will. It takes time. I am glad I listened to my body and didn’t ignore the symptoms.

[@twilightsprite1]

Thank u for this. Im.2 weeks out and keep reading that everyone is better, no pain anymore, no swelling!!!! Wtf...I am still in so much pain. My dr. Said i can lift/carry 15 lbs now but i can only lift like a watering can that's like 10. I'm still sooooooo swollen. I'm young, I don't eat red meat, I don't smoke or drink. I'm 5foot 6 inch n weigh 127. No rhyme or reason but I've been sick in n out of hospital for 2+ years. Surgeon said I was headed 4 a bad med emergency. She had 2 remove my whole sigmoid and said it was like a lava rock. I really just want 2 get better. Thanks 4 sharing this

[@shazzabbegg9934]

Thank you for sharing story. I hope you’re now well

[@maryrogers7879]

Thank you for sharing your story here. Wow! You really went through a lot. Glad you're starting to heal and felt good enough to make a video to inspire your subscribers and to remind us to be vigilant when something doesn't feel quite right in our bodies.

[@ModernRefugee]

Yea, always listen to your body. They told me that if I would have waited 12 more hours I would have been in real trouble.

[@throwback888]

Thanks for the video, I suffer from sever diverticulitis and am now in the hospital awaiting surgery in two days. I have diverticulitis, 2 bacterial infections in my colon (c. diff and e.coli) and a fistula. Looks like I am going to lose part of my small intestine and part of my colon. Thanks again for the video

[@ModernRefugee]

Take care.

[@texaspineywoods3879]

You are an angel with the heart of a lion. Thank you for the courage to share this. Many hugs and much love to you.

[@HeatherFeather036]

Just a quick thank you for sharing your personal story! Seems I have this in my future and was looking for education on the subject. Your personal account is extremely helpful, hope you recovered well from this! :)

[@theresamoshier1768]

So glad everything went great. You are looking great

[@DD-nn7vk]

Oh my goodness this is exactly almost what I’m going through right now. This really helped me know what I am to somewhat expect going forward. I am not looking forward to it!! Thank you very much.

[@fortyfour6626]

How are you now? 90 days out or so. How is your recovery??

[@DD-nn7vk]

@@fortyfour6626 Had my surgery February 27th. I’m almost perfect now. Just need to learn how to eat better. 😆 Thanks for asking! Hope you’re well too!

[@bufordthegardener1951]

So glad you are feeling better

[@victoriabain123]

Hey I came across this video studying for a physiotherapy exam and I really appreciate you sharing your story. It is always so important to us working in medicine to hear the patients point of view. Thanks very much and hope you are doing well.

[@karenkennedy4964]

Thank you all that info. My story is exactly the same. Now I'm just waiting for surgery and thanks to you I now know what to expect. Heal quickly!

[@RogwinMusic]

Thank You Refugee, I am 73 and have had "smoldering" since last Thanksgiving as well ( now May7) . Mine started out 2 years ago with the 1st attack, which gave me fever and a CT scan later showed an access. That all cleared up, and I thought I was good. Then during the holiday season, I was getting flareups, not super painful, but not fun either. Changed diet to a lotta soup, that helped, but this "feeling" I had lower left quad, was simply not right. I am going for my CT scan next week, and do not want any part of surgery. Though as you stated, smoldering does not heal up. So, getting very anxious over here. When you talk about your pain post surgery , how bad was it? and Thank You for sharing your story, guys like me, get a lot out of first hand info. God Bless./Dave

[@AndyMilne-jr6ph]

Going for my reversal on 4-8, thanks for the info.

[@debbiesunshine]

Gosh MR, you surely went through an ordeal! I’m so happy it’s behind you and you’re doing well! Continuing prayers for you and your family!

[@maryed4676]

Thanks A LOT for your GREAT video. It was very informative. I have to remove my descending & sigmoid colon at the end of next month (October 28, 2024). I was a little bit anxious. But your video reduced my anxiety. Please, wish me luck! Thanks

[@northspencerbaptistchurch4136]

I thank God we have the medical care that we have...so many do not. Glad you are on the mend. This video encourages people to get checked out when we know that something is not right. We can have all the preps in the world, but it only takes some microscopic critters to lay us out. Thank you for sharing. Prayers for your complete recovery.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you

[@scott4708]

Thank you for sharing your story, my fellow warrior.

[@Lstractorman]

Take care buddy. That’s a rough road you been on. Be praying for you.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@cbass2755]

I've always had gut problems but thank God I never had surgery. I have colitis, ulcerative colitis. Today I suffer from dang constipation. It's tricky to control but I'm doing it. Get well hon. I'm sorry your going thru this ❤️

[@ModernRefugee]

Yes, there are so many things that can go wrong.

[@glen1arthur]

I have it to. I had all of my colon removed over 20 years ago. Hope you can stay healthy there are much better medicine and treatments now. Have you tried keto diet?

[@susanholbrook4185]

Keto is good for you. Do not eat ice cream. Milk is very constipating. Take magnesium. Vegetables , well cooked, and chicken are good. I have an ostomy after years of IBS. Got a blockage in that sigmoid area and my older body said no. Was in the hospital for a month. Smouldering! I will use that adjective. I ate small amounts of food and still do. Exercise, walking and cleaning my home, is perfect for me. People today are having more problems. The food we eat is terrible. Good luck.

[@IamKyuTee]

OMG!! Why did they not at least do a ultra-sound!! IT IS less expensive nbut a good ultra-sound tech would have recommended a MRI or something if there was severe inflammation!! Glad yiu are back home and hopefully recovering well.

[@darylthompson6969]

Thanks for the frank and useful information. I am scheduled for the same surgery for almost the same reasons. It's as if you described my medical issues. Unfortunately, I was really stupid and I watched the video of the surgery and it sorta freaked me out. Anyway, great video and thanks!

[@joemozden5989]

Really glad to see you're on the mend, Fred. Take it easy these next couple and hopefully you'll be good to go before summer arrives

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you

[@twilightsprite1]

​@@ModernRefugeewill there be an update???

[@ModernRefugee]

@@twilightsprite1 I’m still around. My diet has changed quite a bit. I just can’t tolerate some foods anymore. I have gained back 15lbs. I lost 40 over the course of the illness.

[@twilightsprite1]

@@ModernRefugee wow, thanks 4 such a fast response. I'm 2 weeks and my surgeon said I can lift 15 lbs. And brisk walking 2x a day for 20 min. I'm hurting man I'll tell u this is not an easy recovery. I'm attached 2 my hearing pad. Any advice?? And when will my swelling go down a bit??

[@ModernRefugee]

@@twilightsprite1 I’m still taking it easy on lifting. I went to back to work in 30 days. I still have random pain. Walking helped me the most. I walked 2 miles a day starting about 10 days after surgery. I took pain meds off and on with muscle relaxers for 6-8 weeks. The muscle relaxers helped with the swelling in my bowel and let things pass easier. I was on a no fiber diet for 8 weeks while the healing process went on. I hope you get relief soon.

[@TeutonicNordwind]

Wow Fred! Thank the Lord you found out about this now and have gotten it addressed effectively. I have my own issues including on of those "don't lift anything over 10lbs for 6-8 weeks" surgeries last May and have another scheduled for march 1st. Unfortunately, there's going to be a lot of folks that are victims of bad timing with their own maladies after the balloon goes up. Best wishes for a full and rapid recovery, MR. Godspeed, buddy!

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@Brumasterj]

Dude!!! Sounds a lot like my story I just got out of hospital today after spending 8 days in there! I’m 56 and it came on out of nowhere back in April! Pumped me with antibiotics and we planned for surgery for July! Well I didn’t make it to July! Yes the pain the next two days after surgery is something else colon not waking up and gas just moving all around! The. The pain thru the shoulder blades when walking was bad too from all the nitrogen! How was the rest of your recovery? Thanks for sharing this info I didn’t want to look up the procedure before hand so I waited till now:)

[@MichaelR58]

Continued prayers for you , thanks for sharing , God bless brother !

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@jenniferschottler5435]

I really appreciate your posting this. This is almost my exact story.

[@edieboudreau9637]

Thank you for sharing. I can relate just a bit to the not lifting. I had melanoma surgery 09Dec (above elbow and underarm) and in the last week I just started being able to raise that arm above my head & now cleared to gradually start lifting 5-10#. Nothing as dangerous as yours. I'm glad you kept at it until it was dealt with. You were truly blessed through all that.

[@Maxaldojo]

Great story! Just recovering from my second diverticulitis with perforated bowel attack since Thanksgiving. Colonoscopy scheduled for May 3, 2023 and we will go from there. The first time I met my surgeon back in November, in a room in the Emergency Department, she said, "If I operate today, I'm taking your bowels and giving you a back. Remember the old "Scared Straight?" That was me. Walking has been a great help. Just worried about the future surgery and your video helps. Thanks for sharing!

[@vonblood80]

Did you have surgery?

[@johannesmaas4080]

will get a sigmoid colectomy mid September this year (2024). Have problems with diverticulitis every 2-3 months. Nothing severe, always can be treated with just eating soup for 2-3 days and it gets better. In the end its really annoying and having influence on my private life and work so the doctors advised to take the risk of that operation.

[@happygardener28]

I'd heard of those symptoms but the reasons were almost always found too late. I am very glad they got to yours in time. I do think informative (not punitive) feedback to the prior radiologists and physicians should be done so they can learn would help other potential patients.

[@ModernRefugee]

Good point.

[@queenbb85]

Love your story, I have a story to tell also. I had right hemicolectomy when i was 17 and lost my son to cancer at age 5 he would be 15 if he was here today. So my advice for everyone is you are never to young for any type of disease or cancer and they say to test for colon cancer in older age. Now i tell everyone I know what it takes to live a healthy balanced lifestyle because i think everyone should know. So thanks for the awareness and education you have taught love it. We need more people to bring Awareness about health & nutrition and how important it is to eat & stay active. To keep a healthy colon.

[@joyful_tanya]

Sounds very familiar. I have an appointment with a gastroenterologist today because I have had some similar symptoms as you. I believe my CT scan from last week wasn't read correctly. I'm a retired nurse and it doesn't match my symptoms. I pray that this doctor can get to the bottom of it, because I have not been able to tolerate solid food. Thank you for sharing because I can highly relate.

[@ModernRefugee]

Take care of yourself the best you can. I hope they find out what’s going on.

[@joyful_tanya]

@@ModernRefugee Thank you very much and I am hoping that you heal quickly and well. ❤️

[@SurvivalSavvvy]

DO NOT carry a pack or anything heavy for months. You do not want to put yourself back in there.

[@ModernRefugee]

Very true. I’m grounded.

[@twilightsprite1]

What's heavy?? 10 lbs??

[@rudesvx]

Nothing more than 40 lbs to lift is what my dr told me. I’m going to surgery in a couple of weeks for the same reason diverticulitis in the sigmoid section of colon. Been dealing with this frustrating painful condition for 4 years. I’m doing the robotic procedure which is less invasive and supposedly quicker recovery. Glad to hear you’re recovering from your ordeal.

[@Ken_oh545]

​@@rudesvxtoday I lifted my 3 year old who weighs about 32lbs before remembering I should not be lifting any significant weight, luckily I got away with it

[@rudesvx]

UPDATE POST SURGERY: I chose to have elective robotic surgery between flare episodes than to wait til I’m rushed to ER and end up with a bag or worse. It’s been closing to three months in a week after surgery. Spent four days in hospital for recovery. The surgery took a little over 6 hours and was knocked out through it all. They found an abscess while in there and removed it. They also had a catheter in me during surgery and removed it afterwards. I now have a 3” scar below belly button (where they remove lid the sigmoid 5” section) and four smaller 1” scars where they had the robotic arms inserted. Also, a drainage tube scar draining the fluid from the abscess. I was eating normal soft hospital food after surgery. Started slow pace walking up and down the hallway to get my legs moving. Had first bowel movement second day. Pain was around an 8 out 10 originally until they gave me some strong pain meds which reduced it down to a manageable 2-3. Each day at hospital I was getting stronger and more independent. I was released a couple of days before Christmas as I was determined to spend the holidays at home. Each day was resting, eating, bathroom breaks and watching television. But I was recovering slowly everyday. Took me a few weeks before I could sleep on my side again (mostly on back) as I felt my organs were shifting downward and were loosely attached to. Dr says it’s normal as colon and other adjacent organs had to be detached from lining. But body will reposition everything and reattach organs in place over time. Most of pain was from muscle incisions than anything else. Bowel movements have returned to a normal schedule and have been consistent to being from soft to semi soft. I’m also eating a lot more veggies and fruits to increase my fiber. Also have been eating more fish but include poultry and red meat now and then. Have been experimenting with mild spicy foods now and then without any issues like before. No more flare ups since surgery and been enjoying eating regular foods in moderation. I’ve suffered for four years with this condition ranging for debilitating cramps and pains to bloody stools and fatigue. Before surgery my body felt it was dying and needed a way out. If you have this condition and the opportunity to receive elective robotic surgery, do it as it will change your life to normalcy. The surgery is a life changer and a second chance in life for those on the fence still thinking about it.

[@docgalt2801]

Holy cow MR! Thank God you are alive!

[@averagejoesmiling456]

Thanks for the update, Modern Refugee. Take 'er slow and easy, okay. God bless. Praying for your quick and complete recovery.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@southerlandacres4543]

Thank you for sharing your story. It’s really inspiring for others. I pray your doing well ❤

[@kieran3451]

Thanks for sharing your story!🙏🏻🙌🏻 im scheduled to have the same procedure September 4th I've had 2 serious sepsis related attacks in the past 12 months so my surgeon recommended having the sigmoid colon removed ASAP. Your video is very informative!⭐

[@JuliaWalker-t6e]

FANTASTIC STORY DOCTOR OF BEING MEDICALLY PROACTIVE 🏥💊 😷 💉

[@pamanderson1417]

Thanks MR...this is good info for everyone as we all may some time face illness or injury and need to understand the importance of nutrition to promote healing. Holding you in prayer for full recovery and return to all that you like to do.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@SoldierPoet]

I'm glad you're doing some better these days. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. God bless you. 🙏✝️👍

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@resoluteoutdoors]

I am glad that you got the operation you needed and that the system was functioning to be able to provide the care it did. I hope that you continue to feel better and take it slow for a while while recovering. I appreciate you sharing your story. We may never experience a nation or global WROL/SHTF situation but the chances of us or a loved one going through what you went through or similar is extremely high.

[@jeas4980]

So glad things went well and you are on the mend! 🙏💚

[@joanneajetunmobi6874]

I appreciate the detail. You explain things very clearly. This will help people with similar symptoms you had. I’m glad you are on the road to recovery.

[@brandonb3593]

100 percent just like you. I lost 45 lbs. my surgery was 3 weeks ago.

[@daval5563]

Thank you for your video. Good luck.

[@mariyyerlis29]

Thank you so much for your story🫶🏻 Very inspirational 🙏 Am 45 year woman who has to get that same surgery next month, my main concern is walking outta the hospital with a colostomy bag, but mines was discovered on time 🙏 Hopefully everything works out well and heal great! Many blessings to you!

[@BobK5]

Inspirational and courageous story, thanks for sharing. Did anyone give you an indication of what might have caused the diverticular disease, any family history for example, so that you can take steps to prevent it occurring elsewhere in your system? Wishing you a speedy recovery and all the best for the future. Just want to add, I suffer from Diverticular disease and have done for a long time with flare ups, pain along the way. I found that walking everyday, either one good walk or one 3 mile walk in the morning and one 3 mile walk in the afternoon/evening is very therapeutic. I also started drinking extra virgin olive oil, neat, small teaspoon to start with and now about a tsp. I haven’t had any flare ups since taking the olive oil. It has to be quality oil, cold pressed extra virgin from one olive producer.

[@ModernRefugee]

I had no symptoms prior to my incident. I was told it’s more common then people realize. Mine was more on the severe side. Walking does help. While I haven’t had any diverticulitis flare up since the surgery, it’s not been without effects. I have to watch what I eat and constipation has been a on going issue. Thank you for your comment.

[@BobK5]

@@ModernRefugee here’s something for the constipation, whole Kiwi fruit, eat the skin, eat one a day when the fruit has got a bit of give in it, not squashy but not rock hard, you should notice a positive result the next day, if nothing happening eat 2 Kiwi fruits for the nuclear option. My colonoscopy dr advised me to take ground flax seeds each day in whole grain cereal with milk or smoothies, remember to drink plenty of water. Sorry if you know all this, hope it helps and keep up the work with your channel.

[@catherinecarter8987]

I am so sorry you have had to go through all this pain and suffering and being shunted about and passed from pillar to post. I hope things get better and stay improved for you and get better.

[@JVsNorthwoodsHomestead]

Bruh, my husband and I can both empathize how you feel. Count your blessings because you are lucky! My husband, before we were together, had diverticulitis that perforated his bladder! He spent 3 months in the hospital and 6 months on bedrest with 2 surgeries before he was healed. As for me, when I was 12, I had a bowel obstruction that perforated. For a week I was unable to stand up straight, I couldn't keep food down or in! I finally begged my parents to take me to the hospital. They cut me open thinking it was my appendix but then had to do "exploratory" surgery to find the perforation. They told me in another week I would have been dead. In both of our cases, we ended up lactose intolerant. So, if you end up with tummy issues you may want to keep that in mind. It took me 3yrs of tummy issues to figure it out! We are all blessed to be alive! Take care!

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@fortyfour6626]

Interesting! I’ve been a cheese hound and never had issue. After my resection, I couldn’t figure out what was giving me diarrhea and just thought it was the healing process. The day I ran out of Ensure, it slowed down. The thing I was drinking to help me was making it worse! I stopped the milk products and improved and even gained weight. I’m now slowly putting small amounts of milk products back in and I can tolerate it. Doctors never told me this could happen. I’m sorry this happened to you… but thank you for sharing because it confirms what I went through with lactose

[@JVsNorthwoodsHomestead]

If you have a source try raw milk! My husband and I moved out of the city almost 6yrs ago and are lucky to have Amish neighbors that give is milk for rides into town. We both tolerate raw milk just fine! In fact, moving out of the city and growing our own food has done wonders for our digestive systems!

[@fortyfour6626]

@@JVsNorthwoodsHomestead advice taken! I live near Sarasota which has an awesome Amish community. Will try!!!

[@PaulTomba]

Thanks for this very helpful post. My surgeon is recommending a full sigmoid colectomy for myself and I am doing research on this topic which is how I found your video. I have the same "smoldering" infection problem you had & my surgeon mentioned the risk of a hospital stay with intensive antibiotics or emergency surgery if I wait too long. So I'm leaning towards surgery now as well...more as a preventative surgery. Good luck on your recovery & thanks again...

[@JJJJ-fg3qx]

I’m glad you’re doing well. Thanks for sharing.

[@GusFromDaysPast]

I'm 3 days after surgery. I had a perforation as well. Something similar happened to me. Good to see you are doing well!

[@ModernRefugee]

Take care.

[@3cardmonty602]

I’ve been fighting anemia for almost 5 months now due to a GI Bleed from removal of 3 polyps in my stomach and 4 polyps in my colon. And this is off of Open Heart Surgery for an aortic valve replacement back in April 2022 that had a 5mm hole in it. So, I feel your pain. I get a blood tests tomorrow to see if I’m out of anemia yet. Good luck.

[@kedeglow2743]

I'm so sorry for what you've been through! My biological father went through the same thing--it's rough as heck. I'll be praying for complete healing for you--and be very careful while you're healing.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@paulakpacente]

I'm relatively sure I'll have this procedure soon. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@fredlescano5727]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I just received the news today that I need that surgery after having a ruptured colon from diverticulitis. This was really helpful and I wish you the best during your recovery.

[@ModernRefugee]

I also wish you the best. You have my thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.

[@jakek7598]

Thank you for the info 35M here. Perforation for xmas 2023 never had this before. Been going through flare ups since then. Been offered elective surgery and talk to them tmrw. Its good to see and hear someones story admitting the struggle yet sharing the success.

[@fortyfour6626]

Your name is Jake? Wild! I just went through 6 feet of removal due to rupture! First symptoms on December 1 and was cut open December 3rd. Yes, Christmas was a blur considering the morphine and delauded I was on but I lived to go home before January 1 2024. My name is Jake too so I found that funny. December 2023 was bad for guys named Jake lol!

[@jakek7598]

@fortyfour6626 Well fingers crossed I dont get 6 feet removed. I'll still with the 10" the surgeon quoted me for. Lol

[@karenscott5130]

Sir, Very sorry for all your suffering but this video answered many questions I had. My surgery is in 2 weeks and now I’m hopeful things will turn out fine. Thank you.

[@sbhgrace3]

Thank you so much for sharing. My husband is right in the middle of this exact situation!!!! Out of no where the last week of January, all of a sudden a perforation and an absess. Lots of antibiotics and a drain. That just healed up and they did a CT scan yesterday. They said his sigmoid colon is a mess and needs to come out. Today we are making an appointment with the surgeon. We are scared!

[@bethaspell1827]

Long road. But maybe starting to level off. God bless

[@reginazubulidis9361]

Having a resection next month. Scared but i know it's needed. I had bariactric surgery and felt sick the next morning when the dr told me i can go home. I told him I'm not feeling well, i had bad pain in my lower stomach and fever. He did the sleeve surgery, removed the gallbladder, took a biopsy of my liver. He said, you're healing. Went home for 5 days septic Called him 5 days later in pain and sick. Bloodwork and ct scan confirmed diverticulitis with an abcess. Had an abcess the size of a baseball, didn't even know it was there. Was transported to another hospital by ambulance, made me wait there 2 days, the abcess ruptured waiting to be drained. Then they put the drain tube was sent home 3 days later. The nurse came to my house to check on my drain. It wasn't draining, so she called the hospital and the dr said, she should've left the hospital with the drain. Now it's time to do the surgery. I'm not in a flare currently. I'm just tired and scared.

[@ModernRefugee]

Take care the best you can. I hope they get you straightened out so you have some relief.

[@citygirl138]

Oh my goodness, that was fierce! You went through so much!

[@jamesyoung558]

Thanks for your story. Your courage is inspirational. I have just had my first bout of complicated Diverticulitis Stage 3. Like you after a clean colonoscopy only 6 months ago. Perforation and perineal abscess, 3 days in hospital after diagnosis on drip antibiotics and then a 28 day course of heavy antibiotics at home I just completed. Just had follow up CT scan and consult with the surgeon who has recommended a Sigmoid resection at the end of next month with the logic that this was a perforation and abscess (ie a serious case) and is likely to happen again. He stressed that the procedure is elective but he believes I should do it. Thinking it over. Worried about long term side effects, wondering if the condition can be managed holistically instead, lifestyle changes, less stress, less meat eating.

[@sandilobianco6734]

Thank you for explaining your diverticulitis journey. I hope you’re doing well.

[@vzxvz9929]

Interesting story. I've lived with Diver for 20 years with events 3 times a year managed by anti bio's for 4 or 5 days a time. I know it can happen for others like that. I'm shocked that it took long to have a ct scan and I guess it's because of where you live. I live 50 miles out of Philly and ct's and surgeries are all over the place. You'll be much better now, and 4 months out I hope you are.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@NothingToNoOneInParticular]

Aww dude, so sorry you had to go through that! I'm so glad it went well though. Keeping you and your family in my prayers. I hope you make a full recovery!!

[@peterstratten3087]

I hope with all my heart you are safe and free of pain now. Take care of yourself ❤

[@justusupnorth8262]

Sounds like quite a brutal journey. Sounds as though you a mending well.👍

[@ModernRefugee]

It’s taking time.

[@bubwar9716]

Many Thanks brother for Sharing your wonderful story. A lesson learned from your story definitely will give me wisdom how to guide my own brother who just had to go through this Colon surgery. Highly Appreciated.

[@ModernRefugee]

Your welcome, I wish your brother a speedy recovery.

[@anitayounger814]

That happened to me as well. The same situation with everything you described. It’s been a long hard journey.

[@jbryanthompson]

Hope you're still doing well and would be curious how you feel now and thoughts on the last year. I am 6wks out of pretty much the exact same situation and feel great. Hopeful to continue progressing.

[@ModernRefugee]

It took me awhile to get back to somewhat of a normal. I still have some food intolerance. I have gained some weight back. Overall I do feel better.

[@scenicdriveways6708]

Prayers up for you brother, I feel your pain. I lost my spleen in 1990. After they removed my spleen, I started having trouble with intestinal adhesions/bowel obstructions, scar tissue grows around my intestines and chokes them off so nothing can go through them. I've had 8 bowel obstructions so far that required hospitalization, and 3 of them resulted in surgery. 4 stomach surgeries ( the spleen removal, and 3 adhesions) total, where they cut me from my sternum to down below my bellybutton. The last surgery I had, the doctor accidently cut into my intestines and caused a really bad infection in my incision. They had to put me on a wound pump for just over 3 1/2 months to pump out the infection, and it took almost a full year for my incision to finally heal up and close. The worst part was having to go to the hospital 3 times a week to have that big air/water tight bandage changed, when they rip it off it takes all the hair and some skin with it. My stomach was so raw and painful. I just wanted to crawl in a hole and die. I pray you make a full recovery and don't have any on going issues. JT

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you and I hope they resolve your problems too. Take care.

[@glock-hm3ro]

Hey Modern Refugee. I've been away from the channel for a spell, but am back. I didn't know you had this issue and am glad you are doing better. I wish you well

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you and welcome back!

[@scottanthony1616]

WOW! what a story, glad your around to tell us about it, take care, stay healthy and God bless you and your Family always.

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.

[@scottanthony1616]

@@ModernRefugee Welcome.

[@nancikelleher7212]

thank you so much! it is difficult to find information on all of this. I am currently having issues, just had a colonoscopy, diagnosed with diverticulosis, waiting to hear back from doctors on whats next. thank you again for sharing this important information.

[@johnjerrehian4642]

You had a tough time... Sorry to hear this. I've had diverticulitis about 6 or 7 times. Right now I'm on antibiotics. I'm considering surgery to remove about 1 foot of my colon to eliminate the problems with the infected part.

[@ModernRefugee]

I hope you get it worked out. Take care.

[@bryankasper6916]

Same exact thing that happened to me, went to the ER because i though i was constipated. I knew i had diverticulitis already at this point, had a colonoscopy about a year ago for my diverticulitis. Had a couple flare ups over a year and then this ER visit. They ended up keeping me, i had a 5x5x5 abcess, so i had to keep an IV bag and pump on me for 2 weeks to heal that for my antibiotics. A few weeks after that, yesterday on 5/8, i had my surgery. Still sitting in the hospital now, shit sucks ass

[@ModernRefugee]

Take care and take it easy.

[@bryankasper6916]

@ModernRefugee thank you, sore as all hell buts its only 1st day of recovery so. Take well also!

[@prepperfortheages878]

That was scary! Glad you're on the road to recovery. -Jill

[@ModernRefugee]

Thank you.