WHY I DECIDED TO KEEP MY OSTOMY BAG!

I get asked often, "Amber, if you can have the reversal surgery why are you keeping your bag?" In this video I discuss 5 different reasons I'm keeping my #ostomy
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*The owner of Ostomy Diaries does not claim to be a physician or healthcare provider. All opinions expressed on this channel, or web page are solely the opinion of an ostomy patient. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or have other health concerns please contact a medical doctor.

[@joycependleton589]

I have had a colostomy for almost 31 years now due to to crohns. I have loved it from day one. The only thing I don’t like is a paristomal hernia. Other then that, I truly believe my surgery to have a colostomy is the reason I have reached the age of 71 soon to be 72! Of course I give God all the credit for my life and for guiding through this process of life.💞

[@yvetteturner8764]

I have had my bag for. 1 year now and I love having a bag!! it's been easier for me than going to the bathroom the normal way . like I said I like the bag better . the doctor said it's temporary but I would like to keep the bag.

[@jrobertsnz]

Are you not able to have surgery for the paristomal hernia? I have had mt stoma for nearly 2 years now and have developed a PS hernia and my surgeon is looking at using mesh to help.

[@joycependleton589]

@@jrobertsnz I have had a couple of surgeries for this hernia but it wasn’t long before it developed again. I am 73 now and thought about another surgery since I had lost weight so that would help with another surgery. Just not wanting to go through another surgery at this stage in my life. Good luck if you should go the surgery route. I’m not sure about going the mesh way for me. I get infections so easy with having Crohn’s.

[@jrobertsnz]

It’s tough going isn’t it Joyce! I’m 68 and have had many many bowel surgeries and numerous bowel obstructions even after my colostomy. I have looked up on line and talked to surgeon friends for opinions and I’m getting my surgeon review in Nov and I’m hoping he’ll go ahead and do the mesh surgery. Mind you, he is reluctant to open me up as my colostomy surgery took 8 hours and 4 weeks in hospital. The mesh they use now is not the same as the gynaecology mesh that caused many women much pain and discomfort. Hang in there!

[@joycependleton589]

@@jrobertsnz I haven’t had as many surgeries as you. I have had both partial and complete bowel blockages. I found that when I feel one coming on I would drink grapefruit juice and for some reason it would stop it. Strange, huh? I just may check into the mesh you talked about. This perastomal hernia I have is quite large and since I lost weight, protrudes more then ever. I do wear hernia belts and have worn scrub tops for years now as they cover the hernia and have pockets that my phone fits in. I have other issues that requires me to keep my phone on me as much as possible. Last I talked to a surgeon, he said my stoma would more then likely need to be moved to the other side since I have had mine for so long. I’m not real thrilled with that idea. Also he didn’t say anything about mesh. My original surgeon retired and I have not come across another who was as good as he was. I wish you the best outcome of your surgery should you get one. Take care and God Bless.💞

[@KatieVyn]

I decided to keep my ostomy bag too. It’s been a gift for me and enabled me to live my life fully. I’m also really grateful for it!

[@OstomyDiaries]

Isn’t it funny? Something I was so scared of I decided to keep. Ostomy bags can be a huge blessing! 💚

[@KatieVyn]

Ostomy Diaries they can be!! I feel so blessed.

[@marytouchette5055]

I am 73 and my entire life was lived around the bathroom. Many trips to the hospital for blocked bowel, ischemic colitis, diverticulitis and infections. I had emergency surgery due to a ruptured diverticulitis and was given a bag. This is the most enjoyable my life has been. I can eat what I want, and not cramping, no diarrhea, no problems. I decided to keep my bag. It has been a blessing. It is interesting to see I am not the only one. This works for me. Thank you God.

[@cathydonnelly6113]

What an inspiration you are. I put off having surgery for almost twenty years. After becoming so ill, it was no longer an option. I have not regretted having an ileostomy. I agree with you, I can now live my life and spend quality time with my family. It is also wonderful to know you walk with the Lord and He is with you throughout everything. I believe it is also knowing that the Lord is with me through this journey that has allowed me to accept these circumstances and to thrive.

[@keinbname]

When I had my last ostomy I wanted to keep it because I didn’t want more surgeries. However my rectum was not healthy and I decided to go ahead with jpouch and now I have a loop ostomy. I am crossing my fingers to get the reversal. I have had plenty of blockages with this new ostomy it’s just frustrating you have to be aware about what you eat. With an ostomy I am financially always worried because the bags available in my country, Colombia, are not the best and I have to buy them abroad. Living with an ostomy is not for everyone.

[@pureblood8712]

I got my Ostomy reversed almost three years ago and have to admit there are times I regret it, I’m a prisoner to the bathroom, I’m afraid to get to far from the bathroom, I live on anti diarrhea meds, I just thought the Ostomy was a nightmare but it wasn’t as bad as I thought, think long and hard before you choose.

[@OstomyDiaries]

Thanks for sharing that perspective. 💜

[@debbiekhoury4079]

Very good reasoning Amber! I don’t have the option to reverse, but if I did I wouldn’t either, your term “prisoner of the bathroom” is accurate for me too. Love your positive attitude and strength you get from God, it shines outward and inspires me. 💓💓💓

[@OstomyDiaries]

Awww thank you friend! SO GLAD we don’t have to live in the bathroom anymore! 🙌🏼💚

[@garymagistrelli7507]

Hallelujah!! You go girl!! Keep testifying to the love of God! Thank you.

[@kristathome404]

Those are amazing and realistic reasons not to get a reversal. I have Crohn's disease and I had my colostomy surgery 6 months ago. When I was talking with my surgeon about the surgery, she said there was a 50/50 chance I would be able to get a reversal after 6 months to a year. However once she was in there doing the surgery and saw how bad my intestines and rectum were, she said there was no way I would be able to have one. For a long time I was really sad and mad about it, but now I have come to accept it. Thank you for your videos, you re such a sweet positive light!!

[@OstomyDiaries]

Praying for you on this journey! Thank you for your kind words 😊💜

[@kristathome404]

@@OstomyDiaries thank you so much!! You're very welcome!!

[@LL-fi4rr]

I was diagnosed with UC a month ago and this video helped me feel a lot better. You make me feel like if I ever need surgery in the future I’ll not only be able to cope but actually start thriving in life again. Thank you very much for sharing this story.

[@miriambarnett2782]

Thank you for sharing your story! I have a colostomy due to having had rectal cancer. I’m cancer free now and very thankful. God Bless you!!

[@OstomyDiaries]

You’re a warrior!! 💚💚

[@aprilgoodman2453]

So, when I received my bag at 19 I was mortified. When I turned 23 I walked in to Vanderbilt clinic and asked my gastro to make it permanent. 32 years later and I am STILL happy with my decision.

[@OstomyDiaries]

That is amazing! So glad you are happy. I love my ostomy too. 😊💜

[@motorpsykler]

What is involved with making it permanent? I have a temporary illeostomy and I think I'm going to keep it.

[@RobinMHeitt]

Amber you give me incouragement that it's like it will get easier. I'm trying to switch to Coloplast and it looks so easy but it's hard for me and I don't want to give up. Pray on this for guidance 🙏 I have no other support system. The blue flange I'm having trouble with. The 1 piece or cear bags I don't like to see through bags the beige part of back faces your stomach. So frustrated when a child can do it so easily. 😢

[@barbarawolcott6999]

You are smart to consider all the options. I had anal cancer that nearly took my life. Had an illeostomy for 3months. Now I have radiation stenosis and am seeing a surgeon for a colostomy. These videos are so helpful! I thank the Lord for people like you who give us confidence that it will be alright!

[@PeggySue-RL]

I hAd rectal cancer n radiation in 2005-2006. I’m more restricted to home n have gas’s n accident. My 72 years old n thought I hAd my mind made up to have an o to y bag. Now I wonder😢

[@patriciayatesferebee689]

Hi, Amber - thank you so much for what you are doing in regard to sharing your experiences. I found you on youtube when I was having difficulty with the wax wafer - I was having leaks often so because of you I am now successfully using just the ostomy paste without the wafer. I know that everyone is different but this has worked so much better for me. I had an emergency splenectomy in April of this year and my colon was perforated during the surgery so I had to get a colostomy. I have a blood cancer and my spleen had gotten really enlarged and infected so it had to go. I had a really rough time in the beginning but I have adjusted to having a bag over the past several months. Your videos are encouraging and I really appreciate you doing them because it has helped me as I know it has helped others. My surgeon recently said that he could reverse mine but that it would be an 8 hour surgery and both the hematologist and hepatologist feel that the surgery is quite risky for me. I decided against it for now and this may turn into a decision not to have the reversal because like you, I am feeling healthy and I am in remission. I am also thankful to God because I am alive and He has seen me through this! I look forward to the future. I am definitely going to watch more of your videos because I love to swim and haven't been able to do so for almost 2 years. I am divorced and would like to date but am self conscious about my bag. I also have fear of going to public bathrooms because when I empty my bag its a really bad odor and I get embarrassed. Anyway, that's my story - I truly appreciate your story and your help!!

[@mleffak]

I recently started using a pouch deodorant/lubricator. It helps so much with the odor. It might make you more comfortable emptying your pouch in a public restroom.

[@dond.200]

What a great video! God bless you for being so truthful about your faith in Jesus and how it helped you get through your life with Crohn’s and your ostomy surgery. I’m glad that you made the decision to keep your ostomy and not have the reconnection surgery after a year of healing. That was a wise decision. I was diagnosed with OC in 1968. Lots of pain and bleeding. Prednisone helped for a while but it always came back. My bowel perforated in 1983. I had J-pouch surgery in 1983 that never worked as the surgeon had sated. I had to use a 12” catheter and warm water to empty the pouch. It was like giving myself an enema 4 times a day and the tube would get clogged with undigested food. I had to keep removing and reinserting the catheter several times. It was a disaster. I got pouchitis often and was on Cipro and Levaquin for years until I got a ruptured tendon in my ankle. After that I was put on Xifaxin for the pouchitis. I ended up having to puree all my food and I was losing so much weight. In 2017 I finally consulted with a surgeon in Tampa and had an end ileostomy surgery. As you stated, I got my life back! I can now eat almost anything. I cannot believe I waited so long before looking into having the J-Pouch removed. It took me a long time to find a surgeon that was interested in doing the surgery. As you said it took me a few months after the surgery to figure out what ostomy products work for me. I am the most comfortable with a two piece ConvaTec system. I use the Eakin Seals instead of stoma paste. I also use ConvaTec adhesive remover wipes and ConvaTec skin barrier wipes. I like the two piece system so I can ‘burp’ my pouch from the top and let out the gas out when my pouch balloons. The pouch reseals easily with a confident ‘click’. I use stoma powder before I use the skin barrier wipes and before I put on the wafer. As a final step, I cover my wafer with a Sure Seal ring. The Sure Seal ring covers the entire outside of the wafer and sticks securely to my skin. This enables me to use our hot tub and pool here in Florida and I’ve never had my wafer come off ever since using them. Before that my wafer would come off or loosen every time I went into the hot tub. My wife of almost 56 years has been through my intestinal nightmare journey all of those years we’ve been together. She is also my ostomy ‘nurse’ and helps me with the pouch changes every 4-5 days. She is a very special person! I look forward to seeing more of your ostomy videos and obtaining more of your hints and insight. God bless you.

[@jimmyzapanta1262]

You're so positive, thanks for your tips and inspirational life!

[@cacc3150]

totally agree with you having my permanent ileostomy and I also had the choice of a reversal but chose not to and I am very happy with life and happy to be here my Ulcerative colitis was so bad I almost died and went from 196 pounds to 122 pounds god bless you and us.

[@delytheckersley4723]

what a beautiful, stunning & positive girl you are, inside & out. My sister has just been told she has to have one of these in the morning & she is terrified..I am going to show her your inspiring perspective. Thank you so much for sharing your journey ..God bless you x

[@OstomyDiaries]

God bless you friend! I will say a prayer for your sister! 💜💚

[@tripps607]

God is a bitch he gave us this problem

[@tripps607]

Fuck god

[@jt3472]

I agree I loved your video I had acute diverticulitis for 5 years an having this surgery has changed my life I would rather manage this then ever go back to the discomfort of the desise, your awesome keep up the great work you need to heard for allot of people sake , god bless

[@silverphoenix1418]

Thank you so much, Amber for such a wonderful, lovely, positive and inspirational video. It's so nice to know that we, with ostomy bags, have a choice as to whether we want to go ahead with the final stage involving J-Pouch. Most of the day, I too, feel like there is no bag there at all and the quality of my life is much better. I still remember those horrible abdominal ripples and waves of unbearable pains felt when I had a large colon. Now it's been surgically removed, so are most of the medicines for IBD, apart from Suppositries and Immodium Dissolves. Only the embarrasment of leaks and after all, at the end of the day, it is our bodies that are faced with the prospect of further surgery, which as we all know can be very scary and make us hesitate to go ahead. So glad there is a choice for us. Thanks again. :-) God Bless you.

[@rosiecircello79]

I have a colostomy due to Diverticulitis. Had a reversal 16 months later... went to ER 3 months later with a leak and blockage. So I have my ostomy back. I was very disappointed... depressed... but now 4 months later keeping my mind on Jesus and getting through my 3rd. Surgery. I'm older so change isn't easy... but God is helping me. Feel pretty good too! Ty for sharing and encouragement 💓

[@OstomyDiaries]

Thank you for sharing. Prayers and love to you!

[@anjanpradhan8283]

I too don't wanna remove ostomy bag m happy with it.due to colon cancer had to put on but now I m free from colon ca...its been a 5yrs living with ostomy bag..enjoying life fullest..

[@OstomyDiaries]

😊💚💜

[@mayasubba1921]

But keeping ostomy bag forever will be problems for the bowel movement na?

[@Nhxn_]

@@mayasubba1921 thats not true.

[@norcalraider5047]

Your outlook is contagious thanks for sharing your story

[@jaygeebee7291]

At the age of 70 I ended up with a blocked colon and an emergency colostomy that 6 months later prolapsed, dragging part of my bowel out along with the intestine. I had revision surgery to change my colostomy to an ileostomy. Once my stoma nurse found the right bag for me, having a stoma doesn't impact much on my life. It's been a year now since the ileostomy, and so far, so good. I am opting to keep my bag and my hernia.

[@crohniechronicles5884]

Mine was reversed in 2014 and I just went back to it on 08/03! Couldn’t be happier.

[@AM-wm3si]

I think you did the right decision...everyone should choose what works for them. Welldone

[@brendahighsmith1901]

I feel better listening to your videos real people talk I like the way that you talk person to person not just instructional videos but real people talk

[@wmden1]

Having the bag is a bit of a drag, but being very sick is much worse. I think you made a wise decision not to risk it. It has been my lot that taking a calculated medical risk has never worked out well. I figured that out and decided to keep my bag, peristomal hernia, catastrophic leaks, irritated skin, and all.

[@davidalexander3632]

God bless your faith!! God will continue to use you to help others!! Keep it up!

[@gerardwebster1251]

Sound reasoning. I can be reversed from my diverticulitis perforation but I don’t really see any need to at this time or maybe never. I’ve become used to life as an ostomate. It’s only annoying occasionally; no worse than having to itch that hemorrhoid when I pooped from you know where. Just have to be a little more careful in some things that I do. Plus, I really don’t feel like getting cut and drugged again and having another medical bill to pay off. That’s why I have so much respect for the many ostomates that I follow on social media; that they have gone through so much more than I and I truly admire all of their strength and courage to continue to try and feel better and live a normal life. Keepin’ on with the bag life! Thanks for all you do!!!

[@OstomyDiaries]

Gerard I definitely feel you on the hemorrhoid thing 😂😂 Thank God no more of those! Thanks for watching and your kind words. It means more than you know!! 💜💜

[@markweber6593]

Great Video Amber. My situation is very similar. After 10 years of suffering with Diverticulitis attacks and 3 trips to the hospital, I decided to get a colon resection as advised. Laparoscopic surgery did not go well. Developed Sepsis (localized fortunately) . Had to have 2 more surgeries in which I ended up with an Ostomy and now in my 5th week of recovery. They said I can have it reversed in about 6 months. They said it would be about a 3 hour operation and medium risk because of the prior surgery. I do not think I can go through with the reversal. The risks of complication are not worth it. Thanks for your video.

[@ixiranisamiixi7635]

Hi Mark, I wasn't that far off from you, either, I have diverticulitis too, I'm going through a hard decision whether to have a reversal or not but after reading alot of comments including yours, I must say I'm positive I want to keep my stoma now. Thank you for writing this so I could read it and come to a decision it's helped me alot thank you 😊

[@jorgeulrich9274]

Beautiful thst you are able to see a blessing where people see a disgrace, and even greater that this has lead you love and glorify Crist even more every day!

[@Jesusisalive948]

Your positive perspective and your love for the Lord is very convicting. May the Lord bless you and keep you and give you his strength in life. You are shinning like gold after it's refined.

[@sassiesondra865]

Thank you for sharing your story. God certainly is good and He will take you through. God bless you my sister in Christ!

[@sylviababoolal3560]

I enjoy listening to you gave me a lot of courage I feel better ❤

[@steveshannon7441]

Thank you for sharing this positive message - I am 71 and had emergency surgery 6 months ago to remove a cancerous tumour which was completely blocking my bowel - I have an appointment is 6 months to discuss a possible reversal (if that is possible) and am coming to pretty much the same conclusions as you did - I can manage the bag now and rarely have any issues - I went to a support group recently and some people there were saying they opted out of having a reversal - apparently it takes a few months to get back to being "normal" again and do I want to have another big operation when I could end up in a worse situation than I am now as I have heard some people can end up incontinent - Your post was 3 years ago and I hope all is still well with you - Steve.

[@AnnaMoore-ve6ec]

Thankyou so much I was so depressed about my husband and worried about him. He just got his bag. And is supposed to get it reverse in 3 weeks , I have been praying for him .

[@geelstrucking3251]

You such a beautiful young Lady, my son just got the ostomy bag, God blessed you 🙏🏻❤️

[@johnmichaeltolentino7196]

Hello,sis im proud of you,,from now now on im living with my life with colostomy bag,, your vedio is encouraging with me...God blessed you alwas..

[@Gimo76]

What a testimony of Jesus in your life you are a jewel. You keep on sharing and living your life. Post op now almost 4 weeks and mine was diverticulitis rupture. I am keeping mine sure hope I can get a bag to stay on. My surgeon was saying things like ugly colon etc. I don’t feel sick for almost a year I must have had a micro leak cuz I always felt sick. I wake up in the morning and I am awake and get out of bed.

[@bettrinatruitt1648]

Your testimony is so encouraging! Especially trusting in God.

[@btppark29]

It’s my first month with colostomy .Had to undergo surgery due to anal cancer.Listening to your videos gives me the confidence to tackle my colostomy

[@OstomyDiaries]

So glad my videos are helping! Good luck to you friend! 💚

[@ramonaguffey2108]

You got this

[@Pamalalala13]

Great message! I am a newer ostomate with a loop ileostomy since July, 2020. Mine was also an emergency surgery due to severe Crohns. I was extremely upset and didn’t want the surgery but I am so thankful for it now. I completely relate to all your reasons. I could never have guessed that I would ever consider not reversing but now I don’t want to risk losing how much better I am. Thank you so very much for sharing!

[@stacischuck3844]

You feel like a Friend..Thank you❤❤Gods is Good❤❤

[@annecaz9466]

What a happy story. Thank you for sharing.

[@raulherrera6674]

Excellent information. Love your video. Thank you for your advice and may the Lord richly bless you!

[@buddylee8535]

I decided to keep mine too because I feel better than I did before they took out 1/3 of my colon, appendix, cecum and gallbladder due to my gallbladder rupturing and developing gangrene. before that i lived on antibiotics to treat diverticulitis and the remainder of my colon now has diverticula so i'm afraid of going back to having diverticulitis attacks and being sick every day.

[@OstomyDiaries]

Peace and blessings to you friend! 😊

[@krahsloop]

Thank you so much for sharing this video!

[@cockeyedoptimista]

This was very interesting. I appreciate your opening up about this. I did wonder why someone would keep their ostomy if they didn't have to. But your last reason really made me understand. I think you very likely made the right choice. That's a hard decision and I think you made a courageous and the most sensible one. If a doctor tells you that the chances aren't really that great for the success that you might hope for, the doctor is probably telling you the truth and it's smart to listen to them! It's our choice, but a good doctor will be honest and we can choose to take a chance or not. I had a surgeon tell me that there's a less than 50% chance of a procedure being successful- I think she gave it 40% likelihood. I told her to go ahead anyway, that I believed in her. But it didn't work and I ended up having to get open heart surgery anyway. I could have saved myself a lot of time, stress and money if I just said okay never mind. Of course, I didn't want to have my chest broken open. But reality is reality. If you don't face it it doesn't change it. It just makes it worse. You're a beautiful person, Amber, inside and out apparently. Your upbeat attitude is inspiring and a pleasure. Anyhow, I guess you can always try a reversal anytime you want to. I'm sorry you have Crohn's disease and I'm glad you can have such a positive attitude about life.

[@kathywitt3609]

I had emergency surgery 5 years ago. I had the bag from May until December. I had reversal surgery, did fine and came home. Thank you God! I was home about 36 hours and had to be rushed back to the hospital. Rushed into surgery and now have the bag again. Last year, 4 years after all of this went on, I ended up in the hospital with a parastomal hernia. I think that's what it is called. I have planned to have it removed and, like you, the doctor wants to get rid of the bag. I don't want to because the last time I was so depressed. I NEVER want to go through that again! It took me months to get over it and I still get depressed sometimes. I went to the hospital in July of this year because of severe pain from the hernia. I was going to have the surgery to remove the hernia, but the found a 6 centimeter anuerysm in my chest. I was in the hospital a whole month except for 5 days that they released me. On the 5th day I had to go back into the hospital for a drainage tube to be put in my chest for the fluid. Sorry, I got way off topic. I go to the heart doctor in November and if he says that my heart is ok, I will have the surgery to remove the hernia, but I will be keeping my bag also. PS-- My problem is from Crohn's also.

[@OstomyDiaries]

Thank you for sharing your story. 💜

[@geokouassi9771]

May God heal you, stay strong 💪🏽 love ❤️

[@tomdonegan4750]

Thank you for your advice

[@bernadettehynes-cafferkey3917]

I have an ostomy bag because I have a high output fiscula and I would give anything, and I mean anything to be without it, great for you, but its not for me I very limited to what I can eat, underweight, pain, discomfort, no quality of life, running, ha ha I can hardly walk, in bed most of the time, leaky bag, skin damage, high output so can't change bag when I need to, I have my colon, so have no problem with that and don't have IBS, but you make having a bag sound great and its anything but, reality is very different for everyone,

[@OstomyDiaries]

So sorry you’re struggling Bernadette! I completely understand. Realties are different. I always try to make it a point to say “everyone is different” because I know not every case is like mine. I’ve shared several terrible experiences I’ve had with my bag in previous videos. However for me, my ostomy quite literally saved my life due to Crohn’s disease and a C Dif infection. I would not be here without it. I’m really sorry you are unable to live an active life. I will keep you in my prayers and I’m here ANYTIME you have questions if it’s something I’m able to help with. Blessings to you friend! 💚

[@bernadettehynes-cafferkey3917]

@@OstomyDiaries Thanks so much Amber for your reply and for you to keep me in your prayers, really appreciate it

[@librasky]

@@bernadettehynes-cafferkey3917 😥

[@elviratornay2070]

@@bernadettehynes-cafferkey3917 I hope are you are doing better right now

[@johnmichaelparecto5167]

Thank you so much, I needed this because the doctor told me that doing reversal might kill me because it has higher chance to leak inside. I am considering it but afraid of limiting the foods I want to eat. Because I really enjoyed back my life after a big fight of my second life in the hospital last year. I am weighing all the advantages and disadvantages. But all I see having this bag will make my life more comfortable not that as comfortable before but much comfortable if I will not have that reversal.

[@SuperBuckeye54]

Thank you for sharing. This has been quite illuminating and I’m forwarding it to my son who has an ostomy. And praise the Lord you know Jesus, dear sister. May He continue to bless you richly as you glorify Him in your life. 🙏🏻✝️

[@laureentaylor8437]

I agree. Same reasons I am keeping mine. Eating is still a challenge at times.

[@OstomyDiaries]

It can be tough but overall I’m so much happier! Thanks for watching friend! 💜😊

[@cynthiamarston2208]

I chose to keep mine based on instinct and my age. Later i have read some reasons why the reversal isnt just a simple affair. Mine was to treat anal cancer and no other reason. My intuition went straight to fecal incontinence which sounded like anybody’s worst nightmare.

[@kennethjohnson6619]

God bless you. I just had an ileostomy. While my surgeon was not really effective, I have accepted the lifestyle. Unfortunately, I have a prolapse that requires me to wear a binder during my waking hours. You have the correct attitude, and yes, Jesus is my savior.

[@edgrabousky9995]

What a great video. I had to get an ostomy due to colorectal cancer. And I do pray every day for the day that I can have mine reversed. I keep getting leaks constantly and that causes burning. Even after 5 months I haven’t got the bag placement correct yet.

[@barbarasd1196]

Ed, I don’t pray but I, too, am looking for the day when I can be “normal” again. I am constantly having leaks too. I can’t even imagine choosing to keep this atrocity attached to me. Sorry.

[@tdevaughan]

Great video, very informative.

[@katrinabrumble166]

God Bless you... I too have an Ostomy (colitis emergency surgery)and I had to depend on Father God to see me through. I love the Lord he has been by my side. I am GRATEFUL 🙏🏾. I have learn so much from you. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@OstomyDiaries]

Jesus is the reason I’m here! Thanks for watching my videos. I’m glad they helped you!! 💜💚

[@bereal6590]

Absolutely love ur personality and ur accent..... totally get it... I will have to decide Wether to have an ostomy (for problems with bathroom).. watched loads of videos but urs are fun and bright and u seem such a great person while being totally honest.... great sense of humour. Ur spirituality really shines as well 😊😊

[@OstomyDiaries]

You made my night with this sweet comment. Thank you so much! I’m praying that God leads you to the right decision about whether or not to get an ostomy. 😊💚

[@bereal6590]

@@OstomyDiaries thank u so much.. adore your videos!! MY decision has been put back cos of covid! Grrr! Ur right as well bout god lots of love 😊

[@sybilannjoseph3525]

I have had a permanent ostomy for a little over a year. I love it and has gotten comfortable with it.

[@cockeyedoptimista]

I've had my colostomy for 8 1/2 months and I have never gotten used to it. It's expensive, time consuming and it seems unsanitary. But mine was an emergency surgery and was supposed to be temporary. I am planning on getting It reversed still but now I'm getting scared! I have not been diagnosed with crohn's or IBS or anything like that. But then again I wasn't seeing a doctor at all. But I really didn't have any serious problems except that I got a very constipated sometimes and my whole system slowed down when my heart valve broke and I had a blockage in my colon I guess. Anyhow, I feel that my digestive problems were easily controllable by lifestyle habits. So I'm hoping that my reversal will work when I get it. I have a hernia too and a very prolapsed stoma. Well, I wish I could be half as beautiful and useful as Amber, with or without a stoma.

[@steffyangel12]

So true❤️❤️🤗

[@heathercollins6464]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I am a recent post-op for a total proctocolectomy with a loop ileostomy. Although my surgeon discussed the reversal at my recent follow up, I honestly don't believe I will have the reversal surgery. I am surprisingly content with things now and feel more in control that I've felt in a very long time. That is the best feeling! Thank you for sharing your story!

[@OstomyDiaries]

Same with me. I felt things were going so well now, why risk messing things up? 😊

[@melmarie1809]

I got my pouch in Feb 2021 after yrs of suffering what i thought was IBS but turned out to be Crohn’s and Colitis. I have had some healing issues that have set me back a lot but have been seriously considering keeping the bag even after being cleared for reversal. I have a life now. I am not always sick and stuck to the bathroom. Most days I don’t even feel it there as i have worked out a pouching system that is comfortable for me. I eat carbs like they are going out of style!! It is so hard to explain to people in my life why i am considering keeping it, as they only see the negative of having it. But it is something i have been discussing with me drs for a bit and i may keep it (though mine was supposed to be for 6 mths to a yr, because i am not healing properly thats gonna make it longer right there.)

[@gizemg.9178]

Amber I watched this vide in tears, happy tears for the most part lol. This is my second time around with my ileostomy, I got reversed and it was worse than when I had a colon fully inflamed with Ulcerative Colitis. But I was screaming crying please don't put a bag on me again on the gurney while they were rushing me to emergency surgery because I just could not reach an acceptance with my bag. It used to leak a lot, gave me skin rashes that burn like acid and got me hooked up on opioids. But like the song says : everything is different second time around! In my first time I was counting days like you did and did no research at all on how to attend my stoma to have a better experience. This time I am experiencing, finding the wafer that fits me best, still having leakege problems but I realised it's better soiling my pants almost all the time lol. All the reasons you counted apply to me too. I can eat EVERYTHING from dairy to spicy, I gained weight and got a healthy appereance. It's all about acceptance. Not only ostomy-wise but life in general. Thank you so much for sharing this. And thank you everyone in the comments section for assuring me I have chosen the wiser option. Love xx

[@OstomyDiaries]

Awww this makes me so happy to hear. It’s hard to find peace sometimes. I didn’t want my Ostomy at first AT ALL! It was a huge adjustment, but now it is my blessing. I am so glad you are doing better. Much love to you friend! 💜💚

[@Pamalalala13]

Have you tried paste instead of a ring? I switched to paste and now I rarely have any leak issues. My convex bags last 5 days in a regular basis.

[@jenniferforster6683]

Wow! I just got mine and I keep wishing it would just go away. Very inspiring to see you so fine with yours and even choosing to keep it! I’m still at the point where I’m counting down the days until I can have it reversed. But it’s only been a week and a half!

[@Teddibere1]

You may find you change your mind Sarah, when you get to grips with it. You've got to have REALLY suffered with Crohns to appreciate an ostomy quicker. If you have been as I'll as I was (and Amber), you will soon accept and forget you've got an ostomy.

[@barbarasd1196]

I have had mine since November 2022 and I’m counting the days, too, for when I can get it reversed. I don’t consider having it “quality of life.”

[@evelynlazo1957]

@@barbarasd1196 I’ve had my reversal in February , I really am starting to regret it but everyone different

[@ixiranisamiixi7635]

​@@evelynlazo1957 Hi there, I'm due one very soon after 10years (diverticulitis) I'm scared outta my skin to have it done. To the point I going to refuse not just that an awful lot of peoples comments have made me more willing to keep it . If I may ask why do you regret having it reversed??

[@martarico186]

I love your number 3 reason.. thank you for sharing that...

[@OstomyDiaries]

💜💚

[@dalegustin1120]

I couldn't agree more !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MaryC-ug4pf]

I've kept my ostomy bag too. It is my friend and has saved my life.

[@ittybittypretty82]

I have a suprapubic catheter at the moment and am considering this operation. Changing the tubes is just to painful every month. Plus they get stopped up sometimes and that pain is horrible. I'm learning alot about this. I'm really thinking now I need to do this.

[@damicomorton3996]

Thank you

[@communitysolutions]

You are wonderful in every way! Thanks for all you do for our community!

[@j.n.4814]

Hi! I usually do not comment on videos, only like them (if I like them, of course). Your videos are so inspiring, and so positive that I have to comment! I got my SECOND ileostomy in November 2020. I totally hated it the first time around, now I have learned so much with your videos that I have learned how to manage it better! I have rectal cancer stage IV, we don't know if this time we will be able to reverse it. Again, thank you to your videos I am seeing my ileostomy in a more positive way. Thank you! Please keep those videos coming! You are changing people's lives for the better!!!!!

[@rosee5841]

I hope you are doing better 🙏🙏

[@lcee6592]

So is it uncommon to have severe dehydration for those with a ostomy? Along with crazy electrolytes including habitual low potassium and trips to the ER?

[@JAYBLACKTATTOO]

Man, I couldn’t Stand the colostomy bag on me for four Months!! I’m grateful for the reversal tho, recovery was a lil rough with the Wound Vac machine yikes, stung like crazy! Luckily I have a top notch surgeon and it feels good to sit on porcelain again to use my new bunghole lol. Seriously tho my Surgeon really saved my Life. God bless you and I respect your decision

[@barbarasd1196]

Jay, LOL, love your description. Yes, can’t wait till I can have my “bunghole” dusted and the cobwebs removed and put back into service for what it was intended.

[@evelynlazo1957]

How was recovery ? & how do you deal with it I’ve had my reversal in February and it hasn’t been going good

[@lauriecarfagno3296]

Thank you for such a great video my sister in Christ!

[@OstomyDiaries]

😊💜💜

[@HalfEatenMedia]

Do you still need to take medication with a colostomy? I’ve got crohns and have exhausted my patience with surgery and meds. They don’t work so I’m gonna ask to go through with it.

[@majorwhite51]

Hi Beeeeeeeeeeautiful girl, before I watched this video, I was thinking to myself, are you mad, I have a uristomy bag, only this past 8 weeks because of cancer, I had my bladder and prostrate removed and although I'm getting used to it, I really wish, I could have it reversed ain't gonna happen but watching the video, closer to God, great but I also thought, it would be a gift from God to have a reversal but then you mentioned that the cancer might come back, well that did it for me and I think I would have made the same choice, I couldn't go through the pain and side effects of some serious drugs which didn't really work, ever again, you take care and enjoy life, God bless you 🙏 ❤ 😊

[@_anniyah_9348]

God bless you for giving thanks to the Lord for the Lord is always good and compassionate!

[@Ann-so6vl]

So wonderful

[@odettehokemeir4425]

Be Blessed

[@grafenr.3405]

Awesome lady God bless you.

[@OstomyDiaries]

😊💚

[@Sherry-jx9hs]

I had the TALK with my surgeon and decided the problems that could happen were NOT going to happen. I don't have Chrohn's but had a blockage and I agree that after the initial adjustment I am fine and see no reason to go through another major surgery.

[@nancylara3692]

me too im scare to do the reverse

[@priscillabiedebach8148]

I am so happy with my Ostomy! Sleeping sooo good. Surgeon also said I can have reversal in a few years but it is a bigger surgery. I said I can live with the bag. I still have part of colon and rectum , I have encouraged so many people being positive.

[@saraocampo9066]

I bough a carbou ostomy bags last week on Amazon, after having a horrible month trying to keep the coloplast bags with out leeking and been so desperate because I work in a restaurant I found out that Amazon sell differen brands. THIS IS THE MOST AMAZING PURCHASE NO LEEKINGS AFTER BEEN CHANGING 3 or 4 times a day with the Coloplast ones. The reviews on Amazon are AMAZING they cost $34 and come in a box of 20

[@viknoblach290]

Since I bought Coloplast #120700 Brave Elastic Barrier Strips I have almost stopped all leakage. They are in the shape of a C. You just need to put two of them on each time you change your entire appliance. They work great and come in two different sizes. They help secure the appliance to your skin.

[@mikes6403]

Hi Amber , thanks for your super helpful videos. One question; how about the super loud front farting ?

[@bigron26048]

She is so informative and gives very valuable information...wonderful

[@mattmatthew2440]

Its going to be a year next month with mine, they want to reverse me but just this month had a bad crohns attack,went to hospital three times,all these stories have me worried about a reversal,I would like to know what medication everyone here is on,i tried humira and it made my skin blister, switched to entyvio and got a attack, maybe stelara will work,any suggestions?

[@davecomeau5805]

So I’m new to ostomy life I have a double stoma if I decide to keep it will they keep it a double stoma or new surgery to make it just one??

[@user-ip7le7mk6g]

yo tengo una colonoscopia me la hicieron de emergencia llevo ya tres meses estoy usando esas bolsas y hay veces.me liquea no sé si me estoy poniendo mal. Ya me he acostumbrado.usarla que puedo hacer

[@gregmccarty331]

Thank you so much for your encouragement going in 6am for surgery Jesus Christ is my Lord and Saviour also 🙌

[@thomasunger8774]

I had the reversal and I hated it. Spent too much time on the pot and add hemorrhoids and I couldn't wait to get my stoma back!

[@ronaldjackson9013]

ok if you want to deal with pooping out of your belly, i am 81 and had a reversal and all is well with me.

[@swillmen]

I was thinking of reversing my jpouch surgery is there a way to talk? Thank you.

[@brandonmeyer2327]

I got mine reversed as soon as possible because I felt like I was carrying a toilet around with me but I can fully understand getting comfortable with/living with it.

[@brandonshaw7619]

4 months with jouch Going great!

[@rbuccin]

good to hear. took me about a year to say that.lol

[@diannevinson4795]

I'm still staying sick on my stomahe but I've had mine 1 year I want have mine return bc they had to take out so much. I had diverticulitis I got down to 70 pounds now I'm 115

[@angeliaphillips]

Amen to an ostomy experience propelling me into a much deeper and richer relationship with Jesus. ❤️🙌🙌🙌❤️

[@dawnjungewaelter6416]

I have a ostomy bag due to emergency surgery for diverticulitis, I had a very hard time. Its been 2 yrs and im still not comfortable, cnt find, the right product. I'm allergic to adhesive, I can have reversal but terrified, it took me 5 mo in hospital to recover, so miserable. Is there any appliance that u wld recommend? I'm currently using hollister 8901 with cerimide, im allergic to adhesive. I just tried sensura mio, hated it and skin started breaking out within 4 hrs, skin was so red and burning, really need help 😫

[@viknoblach290]

Try the Coloplast products. I haven't had any problems with them.