Upcoming rectal cancer surgery with permanent ostomy.

@leeb123 That is a lot. It sounds like you are doing a good job preparing yourself.

Things that helped me after getting home following a big surgery was walking a little at a time, and gradually lengthening the distance. Also, I would make sure to keep up with the pain medication so that I stayed ahead of the pain; I would set an alarm to ensure I didn't wake up in a lot of pain because the medication wore off at 2am...

How are you dealing with the anxiety? What is helping?

@susanf8 The anxiety can be tough. It's so darn unpredictable. When bad, I have a muscle relaxer, I know its not for that but it helps a little. It passes eventually, thankfully.

Your advice on staying ahead of pain is excellent, thank you.

@leeb123 When I was facing a really tough surgery and had a lot of anxiety I talked to my GP. Her response was "well, luckily, I have a prescription pad". We talked about what I could be on short term that would help, and she prescribed something (I don't remember what). And it helped get me through the next month.

Would that be something that could help you?

There is a definite adjustment period of trying different appliances. Coloplast worked great with me and provided free samples I finally settled on a coloplast closed end pouch so I dont have to fight trying to empty a bag I completely change my bag and dispose of old one I feel much cleaner doing this I also found that using less products with bag works great. I swear by skintac which I learned about on this site I will use barrier strips when I go out but not at home I simply use wipes when changing bag wash with warm facecloth apply skin tac and attach bag and im good to go Listen to your body I normally will have a movement after my coffee so I do not make any appointments early in morning but everyone is different You will find what works for you and it will just become an every day routine that you no longer even think about I found the simpler the better God Lu

@pez01 thanks so much for sharing your story.
This is all very helpful as I will be going for an ostomy training. The info is very helpful not only for me but all others embarking on an ostomy journey.

@pez01 thanks so much for sharing your story.
This is all very helpful as I will be going for an ostomy training. The info is very helpful not only for me but all others embarking on an ostomy journey.

Thank you very much for asking. Yes indeed, I will have an APR /Ostomy, partial left kidney nephrectomy along with the adrenalectomy.
I was to have Ostomy training and placement today but the snow delayed that until next Monday. Surgery then the 27th.
Im ready to tackle this next challenge!