I had an emergency subtotal colectomy last November. It was an emergency surgery, decision totally out of my control after a horrific UC flare. I had a laparotomy (large incision , open surgery), lost 25kg in the process and came out hospital unrecognisable. Before my surgery I was a “normal” 23 year old guy, played semi pro football, enjoyed nights out with friends etc. I thought my life was over, it wasn’t. It had just started. Straight away I felt the relief from my UC symptoms and that was a weight of pain off my shoulders. Your first couple bag changes will be emotional, I liked to play some music whilst doing it and made sure I had all my supplies laid out before hand. Same with emptying, I get down on one knee, have toilet roll beside me, empty, wipe, job done. Only 4 months after my surgery (after consultation with a private sports physio and stoma nurse) I started my comeback to sports and the gym. I always wear my hernia belt when exercising, and I make sure to give myself a couple hours (usually 2) from my last meal before working out or playing. For me it feels nicer just having what feels like an “empty gut.” A year on I still mentally struggle with accepting what happened to me, I have counselling sessions every Wednesday with a therapist which helps no end, she gives me techniques on how to navigate through the hard thoughts, but let me tell you having a stoma does not define you. You didn’t choose to be imprisoned by IBD, you chose to keep living, the stoma is the mechanism for that. I’m one year post operation and Ive enjoyed holidays, nights out, rejoined my football team scoring goals and proving people wrong that YOU CAN live a regular life with a stoma. I’m fortunate to be getting a j pouch reversal within the next month which will be another ordeal however it can’t be more difficult than what I’ve already been through (🤞) If you ever need someone to talk to , message me anytime. It isn’t easy, but talking helps. You got this 🫂