Health Update – June

I’ve been meaning to write a post for a while but have ended up putting it aside each time I come to it.

Now is a good time to write about how I’m doing, what has happened since my last health post and what the plan is moving forward.

Let us start with how I’m doing. I have had my up and down days, but generally I’m doing alright. For those that haven’t been following my journey, check out my other posts in order for this one to make sense.

I’ve had my loop ileostomy for just over 6 months and compared to my end ileostomy, it’s a right pain the ass (pardon the pun). I was due to only have this for a few months, but that seems to have developed into a much longer period.

My current problem that I am dealing with is the condition of my skin. I won’t post a picture, to save those that are squeamish, but imagine putting a big plaster over your skin and sweating a lot. Having that plaster rub your skin over and over again, making it red and raw. Now take that plaster off, and put another one on, and repeat the process.

I’ve been trying all types of bags to see if we can get the skin under control, but as of yet each one has failed. I’m currently trying a new type of bag which is not freely available on prescription and I’m the first in my hospital to try it. It’s early days but I’m sure if it works then you’ll be hearing from me.

Now, skin problems aside – I’m on the waiting list to have my third and final op, with the aim to be August/September. This was all based on whether I would pass my contrast enema. I had this 2 weeks ago, and I passed it with flying colours (although the reconnection was a little off, it would still work). The weirdest part of the contrast enema was that the liquid went in through the anus, and was pushed in through a tube. With that, the fluid ran through my newly formed pouch, up and out of the stoma into the bag – it had to have been the weirdest feeling I’ve ever experienced. It’s supposed to go the other way!

So, I’m now waiting for an official date. I normally know roughly when it’ll be when I receive my appointment for the pre-op. I’m eagerly awaiting the confirmation and cannot wait to get this process over and done with and return to some normality.

This doesn’t mean I’m going stop writing about the condition and the process. In fact, I plan to write about it more. Updates on how I’m doing with the new pouch, as well as a plan to take part in more charity events to raise awareness for the condition as well as help groups for those that have a new stoma and are struggling. I feel I have enough to give back to the world to help those that are stuck, much like I was.

I think that brings us to today. Quite a short update, but there will be plenty more to come.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to Tweet Me!