Diagnosis Colon Cancer: How do you accept & cope with colostomy?

Posted by sawmillsteddy2026 @sawmillsteddy2026, May 17 1:29am

Hi all I am from UK and have just been diagnosed with Colon Cancer

I am 75 year old female just been diagnosed with Colon Cancer and have been told I need an op to remove a large cancerous Polyp on my colon plus have a temp colostomy bag fitted. Being a nurse for many years and working in surgical depts I have always had a huge dread of ending up with a bag, how did you accept and cope with it at the beginning as my head is in turmoil at the thought.

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premi | @premi | May 17 11:34am

Hi.
I had a temporary ileostomy bag as I had undergone a descending colon ‘J’ pouch.I had to use it for three months. As a practising Ob Gyn,I too had my own fears.It wasn’t that difficult to cope up with. The fact that it is temporary gave all the comfort and three months flew away. So don’t worry,time always flies. It is our medical knowledge that scares us.Many a times ignorance is bliss but at times knowledge is strength too. All the best

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | May 29 8:22pm

@sawmillsteddy2026, it's a lot to take in. First hearing that you have colon cancer and second that you will need a temporary colostomy. I hope you saw the helpful reply from @premi, a fellow healthcare provider and cancer survivor who also had a temporary ostomy.

@sawmillsteddy2026, what treatment recommendation has been made for you? Will you have surgery first?

george544 | @george544 | May 30 9:31am

My husband has had his ileostomy since September. It was to be temporary, but given his cancer spread, continues to be in our lives.

Our OT canned it an accessory, and I named her Shirley. She is very active and loud. Always has been that way. Lots of gas.

For us, it’s just one of those things you learn to accept.

The biggest issue is all the output and its impact on hydration. My husband is on four medications to help control output. Some days they work, some days they don’t.

It’s an inconvenience. Nothing more in our lives.

It’s part of our daily routine.

Susan F, Volunteer Mentor | @susanf8 | May 30 10:45am

Hi @sawmillsteddy2026, I'm sorry to hear you are facing this diagnosis.

I had a temporary ileostomy in 1987, and a permanent one in 2002. It certainly wasn't something I would have chosen, but for the last 20+ years I've had a very normal life.

What is it you dread about having a colostomy?