New Ostomy: Any help would be appreciated

I am an 81 year old ostomy wearer, 6 months, and have many questions. Primarily what are, if any, consequences of not having the procedure reversed?

Good afternoon. I am not very tech savey with using this "Chat" stuff. .I have some questions about my ostomy bag due to some bowel removal for a non cancerous blockage. Am I at the right place to make those inquiries?

@grandmairene Welcome to Mayo Clinic. We’re a community of patients, family members, and caretakers who all help each other with resources, information, and personal experience. Sounds like to have lots of questions about your surgery and ostomy. Do you have anyone who helps you with changing your appliance? Have you contacted the surgeon who did the surgery? They should be able to give you the name of an ostomy nurse who can help.
You are in the ‘ostomy discussion group’ so maybe @kenc and @riverwatcher might also be able to help.
Do you have a family member or neighbor who might be able to help you with the computer? You’ve done a great job so far!

I do an Ostomy newsletter for three support groups in Northern California I was President of one for five years. I have a wealth of information bin my computer and I live in Arizona now. I would be glad to add you to my Ostomy newsletter if you would like it. Just send me your email information. Linda Fleig. I have had my ileostomy since 2012. Hope this might help you.

I can't speak to your specific problem, but I hope you can answer a question for me. I am 82 and as a result of a botched surgery, have lost considerable weight and have a partial blockage in the small intestine, which I am sure would require an ostomy. Think I'd not survive the surgery, and wonder if you've an opinion, having been through it. Wish you well.

How do you know that you may need an ostomy?

We have had a few eighty year olds in our group recently and they did well with the surgery. I think the most important thing is to find a colorectal Doctor that you have total trust in. It is also fine to get a second or third opinion.
I have been doing very well with my Ileostomy since 2012 and it has been a lifesaver for me. But I found a doctor after seeing a few I had complete trust in. I know am 76 and it has improved my quality of life. Find a local support group ( even now by zoom) and talk with others. UOAA is a great source also. Fortunately for us there is so much wonderful Ostomy information available. I wish you the best with your decision. Find that Doctor you have complete trust in! Best to you!

@grandmairene I found this information booklet and ostomy guide for you. @dancing1 mentioned the UOAA group in her posting earlier. I has a phone number where you can find a support group and people to help you.
https://www.ostomy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/UOAA-New-Ostomy-Patient-Guide-2020-10.pdf
Do you think this will help?

@kenc From all my research, in order for the colon and a vaginal fistula to heal, an ostomy must be performed. Think I am more worried about the surgery itself - if I survive, I'll probably be in a nursing home the rest of my life. All my present problems stem from a hysterectomy four months ago.

Uoaa guides for Ostomy’s is the best information you can get. They explain the different types of Ostomy’s and are a wonderful support. Then you should look for a support group (meeting by Zoom now). Support groups are incredible and you can also find the nearest one to you at UOAA.org. It is your best resource!