It's very individual as far as how well things will go for you if you do decide on a j-pouch. I have had great success so far. I had the 3 step procedure. I was diagnosed with moderate to severe pancolitis and had my first surgery 7 months later. For me, age was a factor as well as the severity of my colon. Remicade did not work for me and I was not inclined to play around with other biologics. I was 61 when I had my first surgery and almost 62 for takedown. My recoveries were not bad at all. Getting used to the ileostomies, bag changing, diet, and keeping hydrated etc. we're some challenges, but not terribly difficult. I am 18 months out from takedown. I have anywhere from 4-6 bm's in 24 hours, never at night. At this point I take Benefiber once a day before breakfast and 2 Immodium before bedtime. I have no leakage. My first pouchoscopy results showed mild inflammation in the rectal cuff, every thing else was fine. I was able take walks and hike with my ostomy bag and after my j-pouch. We go to the White Mountains every year and this year we will plan to hike to the top. Many people who come on this site do so with questions, concerns and some difficulties they are having with their pouch. I found it extremely helpful when I was first diagnosed and was up against possibly making the decision for the pouch. I continue to check in, due to the fact that there are people on here with lots of great information. I will also say that I was very good about following my surgeon's instructions after each surgery. All things considered, for me, it was a good decision! Good luck with yours!