So here we are two years after his diseased j-pouch was removed. Thank God that thing is OUT! Crohns of the j-pouch can and does occur!
My husband is sooooo happy and healthy right now! We are enjoying our summer with grandkids, trips, concerts! He changes his ileostomy bag once every four or five days. His mental outlook is fantastic! In fact, on a hike this weekend he said “I’m so glad I got the J-pouch removed. I would have never dreamed of staying overnight at friends house, and hiking again!” WOW! As his wife, I was thrilled to hear this!
He is still on biologics to preserve what’s left of the small bowel as there is very little remaining. But they are working and he feels confident, healthy and happy! He has gotten the products figured out- what works for him and what doesn’t. Never any skin irritation now! Its become second nature to him, much like brushing your teeth in the morning, or whatever morning ritual there is.
So for those of you struggling with poor quality of life with a jpouch- consider getting it out and living with the permanent ileostomy.
He would gladly tell you “it’s SO worth it!”