Operation news

Hi Inanna,None of what you are feeling is irrational even if it feels like it.You are about to have a major operation.I was terrified before mine and my mind and emotions were all over the place.I’m having problems sending private messaging but am happy to help if I can.Using the time before the cystectomy with heavier tasks is a good idea and helps reduce anxiety.The stoma nurses will explain how to manage Basil,you will be given a bag with various bits that you need until the stoma supplies are set up.I was given spare bags and not allowed home until I could manage the stoma unaided.It was harder dealing with the stoma in hospital because of all the tubes and drains but I managed fine.You will be shown how to cut out the stoma hole with the special scissors supplied.You start off with a template but over time your stoma will change in size so you will have a follow up appointment with the stoma nurses & they will measure out a new template & you use this to cut bags to fit.It all sounds more daunting than it actually is.I’ve been able to decorate and do gardening with no problems.Having a stoma shouldn’t affect your ability to lead your usual life.It’s easy to pop to a loo if you are out and empty the bag.Ask any questions as there is always someone here who will have an answer.Love Jane xxx

Oops that should say bag for the stoma hole.

It all seems horribly real, doesn't it? All perfectly reasonable worries. I decided to make my op & neo a project, researched post op foods & managing neo, got post op clothes & entertainment etc ready. In the end I was absurdly excited on the big day.  I had to be there 6.30 am for mine - arrived before they were even open for business! There's quite a bit to do before you actually go to theatre, but it takes the best part of a day, usually.

I must admit I wondered how I would feel afterwards with the physical alterations. I was quite relieved to decide I still felt exactly the same - still me, no mourning lost bits. Just another change along the road of life, a bit more drastic than most, but just something new to integrate into daily life.

Has your hosp offered a dummy stoma pack to try out? That might help reassure you, but I'm sure some of the bag people will be along with good advice. In the meantime, keep busy with the housework if nothing more pleasant to do!

Thank you Jane, the sensible side of me totally agrees with you and you encourage me no end.  ThIs forum is invaluable and so is everyone's input 

As ever thank you Jane

Inanna xx

All real now but I know what you mean about being excited on the day and adapting to change.  I feel a bit like that I must admit.  I know that it is the best for me and am glad to be able to have it. It's just the usual fears

I am taking my tablet with me so won't be too bored

Inanna xx

I had one visit from my sister when I was in hospital and she brought in everything but the kitchen sink.The huge supply of knickers were invaluable and she lent some lounge style trousers which fitted over my swollen abdomen.I read & had a puzzle book but I never ended up watching anything Sarah had lugged in.I ended up watching tv when the staff were eventually able to locate a spare remote control.Is your sister going with you on Monday ? Mine was helpful in asking questions I hadn’t even thought about.xx

Your sister sounds just like mine, she has bought me an eye mask to keep out the light and some ear plugs.  She has supplied me with chewing gum (yuck but necessary) lol.  I am going to buy packs of knickers and Sis is doing my laundry. 

I have cheered up now and I guess it was the letter that set me off but feeling much better.  Thanks for the tip for loose lounger trousers.   Have also invested in seamless bras, unfortunately gravity deems it necessary for the girls to have some support.  Ordinary bras are not as cosy lol.

Thank heavens for sisters Jane 

Inanna xxx

Sorry I can't be of any use Inanna, but I often panic at the very thought of it for myself.  So if you go first, then you can fill me in in on it all, just in case that time ever comes for me.  

Glad you're feeling a bit better, I wont keep you from the housework xxx 

Ah just read this I know exactly how you feel when the letter comes for op it all becomes so real .i sat  andcried but people kept telling me I had to have it done so I tried to get my head round it . Now three weeks later it still doesn’t seem real but just looking ar my stoma I realise it is my stoma has reduced iin size loads now all the stoma nurses are so lovely and helpful . I wish you all the luck in the world with your op .xx

My late wife didn't want to look at the stoma initially after the op, but within 4 days was reasonably proficient at changing the bag.

Regards cutting the hole, I initially did these for her but then we got them already supplied cut by sending the template off.

I hope you can relax a bit Inanna, rest up afterwards and before long you will be potering about.