Not coping with stoma bag

I’m 39 years old and on 20th Aug I was told I had bowel cancer. I’ve just returned home from hospital after lower anterior operation and have a bag, which I pray can be reserved In a year.  I’m really struggling with my stoma, even looking at it makes me feel ill. I’m wondering how I’m ever going to cope.  I absolutely despise it all and changing my bag is just horrifying. My husband has had to change it for me since we’ve got home and I just feel humiliated by the whole thing.  Will it ever get easier? Will I be able to cope on my own and accept it? Just wondering if anyone else felt like this! 

Parents
  • I'm with you-- each day is a horror! My husband dyed from cancer and shortly after this happened to me. I wish I would have just let it go and died but I had no will and a lot of money I wanted to go to my love ones--- the only reason besides facing a horrible death. No sex, major stress while at work and yes it burst open in public. I never go out with friends or do anything. Once I figure a way to find the off switch and the strength, I'm gone and happily so--- this is a very depressing post I know but you tell me--- Do I have a life worth living?

  • Hi my name is jayne I have not had cancer but crohns disease. I've had my ileostomy for 45 years life does go on with a ileostomy or colostomy  how long have you had yours and have you been in touch with a stoma nurse regards jayne good luck 

  • Hi Jayne-- 45 years! You are my hero. Yes I've talked to everybody including good samiratians . I get the impression no one would blame me. Thanks for your reply 

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