Hi, Myname is Nicole,

I have had my illeostomy since 2004, when due to mega colon had a subtotal colectomy.

Wow it has been one long and difficult challenge, I've had almost 15 surgeries since due to blockages, abscess, and fistulas. I have very hard formed stools that I have to push out just like I'm pooping, I have to bend and push hard on my abdomen or the stool doesn't come out, im on 6 medications to try to help, however my small intestine is dead. I go through 2-3 bags a day, from them leaking always the same side where my skin is uneven causing the stool to go under the barrier ring and seep through the the side of the flange, if I don't keep air in my pouch the stool clumps around my stoma which from minute to minute is changing in size from under the skin, to lead me to push it out, to huge like grapefruit size and it leaks. I use a two piece system at night I hook a irrigation bag up to it to hold more as I was changing 2-3 times a night too.

I am unfortunately very depressed and feel hopeless, I have no life literally haven't done a fun thing in 13 years I always need a bathroom near. I used to care and take such good care of my appearance now it's as if I just eat, poop, and cry my days away. Working has been a  huge challenge. God gives you nothing you can't handle, I'm told daily.

Trying to remember that, 

Takecare,

Nicole