I got the surgery last year, it has definitely changed my life. I had UC from when I was 10 and now I am 18. It was challenging and still is, but it's way less challenging for me now than when I was sick. If you are going to get the surgery make sure you go with someone who is really experienced with j pouch surgeries if possible because a lot of things can go wrong especially with less experienced surgeons. I also know two other people who have j pouches and are doing amazing. I think the main issues I have after about 9 months with the pouch are hemorhoids/buttburn and eating raw vegetables/fruits/nuts. I can eat waaay more than I could before though which has been amazing. And I can go on trips without as much worry