My one year!

I never thought my stoma would see it's first birthday, but here it is!

On Saturday, I graduated with my bachelors in nursing. I had to take a semester off because of my surgeries, but I finally finished. I could not have done it without stoma buddy. Despite having 4 total surgeries so far and countless NG tubes, I am so happy I got rid of my diseased colon. There is no way I would have been able to sit through my commencement ceremony with UC.

I having my j-pouch created on January 11th. I am having mixed feelings about it. This bag is really convenient. My end ileo is well behaved.

Congrats and best wishes with your upcoming surgery. You will do great...I love my j pouch. Having said that, you don't have to go forward with the surgery. You can always give yourself more time to think about it. :)

Congrats on graduating and on your anniversary! I remember how frustrating it was for you to try to go back to school -- this is wonderful news.

Actually, I am considering getting certified as a WOCN after I get a few years experience. I feel like everything happens for a reason. I have this stoma so I can help others in the future.

My ostomy nurse starting dating a man with an ileo ... they met online, was a coincidence. She said she learned all kinds of things from seeing his life day to day that she didn't know from being a WOCN -- and she is a very good WOCN.

So, Sara that's terrific. Might as well go with the field where you have a "natural" advantage.

What I love about your story is that the stoma gave you back your control over your own life. You could finish school! And you can plan the the following two operations to fit into your own plans and schedule. I think that's ideal.

bostwis1,

Gratz! Your idea of becoming a WOCN is a good one..my WOCN that attended my surgery has an ostomy...she got one when she was 12 years old!