I've had my k pouch since 2011 and I've had no problems. When I got the K pouch I was in the hospital for a month and I was not given any food by mouth. Since I am 80 miles from my DR I think he kept me in there instead of the plan we discussed of renting a hotel room close by. When I was discharged I was 80 lbs. But after all that I pretty much eat what I want now. The biggest problem I have is getting a ride to the doctors since I don't like driving long distances in pretty much unfamiliar territory. (I only see him once per yr.)
I had the bag and didn't like it. It leaked a few times and I think I was sensitive to the glue. The glue itself wasn't the problem but I think the glue combined with bodily fluids was irritating. And since I couldn't have the bag removed for any length of time that made the irritation worse. So in my case the K pouch was a blessing.
Everyone's different and they deal with things differently. I still have some trepidations using public restrooms. But the first time I did and was cleaning out the catheter in the sink, the women next to me looked over and then continued to wash her hands then left. I don't think she really 'knew' what I was washing out or the implications of what I was doing. A lot of the times I was in there with no one else at the sink. But I think I figured out ways to clean the catheter more in the stall so I won't be at the sink with the catheter for long or at all. I have not had the opportunity of testing this procedure so I'm hoping it will work.
I also use to be a member of Norman Vincent Peale's power of positive thinking. I know that's not 100% effective but I think it helps in some instances. And this coming from me a person who has anxiety over much minor things a lot (including driving long distances). But this decision I never had any anxiety about.
I hope this information helps. So take a deep breath. Make pros and cons lists if needed/possible. Go over all of this information and I'm sure you'll make a great decision. The best of luck to you. I hope you have a safe and happy 4th and a brilliant week. Mary