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Reversal

ADD
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I’ve had my bag for one full year and am waiting for my reversal letter. I’m scared of course but I’m so depressed about having the bag I’d do anything to get rid of it. Yes I’ve adjusted well, working ( always a stress thinking what could happen) going out with friends etc. I lost my partner to cancer and I’m now alone. Also, I poop not only in the bag but from the rectum everyday. Is this a good thing or a bad thing going towards my reversal? How much help will I need once home? Should I hire someone to clean shop and cook? Please help me answer these questions as I’m getting more depressed each day 

  • Hello ADD

    I'm sorry to hear that you've not only had your own health issues and life changes to deal with during the past year but that you've also lost your partner. It's understandable that you're feeling so down about things at the moment. 

    You're welcome to contact our nurses who may be able to give you some advice/information about the reversal provedure. They are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040.

    You may find it more helpful to have a look at the website for Colostomy UK. They have some information sheets about reversal procedures as well as a couple of active online support groups and a 24 hour telephone helpline. As they are a more specialised charity I'm sure that they'll be able to put you in touch with others who have been through the reversal procedure and are able to give you specific information. 

    I hope that you don't have to wait too long for the surgery. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

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    Hi ADD

    I had my bag for a few months and had my reversal in February. I returned to work after about 8 weeks post op, on a phased return.  My bowels are still settling down, but many people experience their 'new normal' quickly and some take longer.  Post op, I seem to recall the first week or so I spent a fair amount of time up and down to the toilet but after that I was able to start doing things around the house as I was more settled and had more energy.  It would probably be good to get someone to support you for at least the first 2 weeks.  Jenn suggests Colostomy UK, if you have an illestomy I can thoroughly recomment the IA website as I made a few friends through chatting on their forum.   I think you need to contact your medical team if you are still having bowel movements from your rectum just to check this is ok.  

    I hope this is helpful.

     

    Regards

    MrsMill

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