Newbie

Hi there,

It's really difficult at the start understanding what is happening to our body and the worries we have about what will happen after surgery. I'm not familiar with the procedure you will be having. I had a lower Hartman's procedure which meant a permanent stoma.

My best advice is to prepare yourself in advance by taking some exercise pre op to get yourself in the best shape, even if it's just walking every day if you can. Similarly, post surgery get yourself mobile as quickly as you can, it helps your recovery and gets your bowel working again. Also, eat regularly in small portions after surgery and keep your fluids up. For me getting mobile was essential in my physical and mental recovery.

Whether you will have a temporary or permanent stoma is something that your surgeon should fully inform you about pre op, ask lots of questions. I have a permanent stoma and it is just a normal part of my day and is not an issue.

Inform yourself as best you can and your knowledge and understanding will increase and will help you feel like you are in control of some aspects of what is happening to your body.

Hope that is helpful

Martin

Thank you for your response

Before my diagnosis I enjoyed running, however i've not been as active as i'd liked to have been recently.

However its a new start to the week and know it will benefit me physically and mentally so will get back out there 

I appreciate you coming back to me and will take your recommendations on board

Katie