Hello pouch buddies,
I have had my pouch now for 32 years. I've had a pretty good run up until about 3 years ago. Lately I've been suffering with a multitude of bowel obstructions over the last 3 years. On my last visit to the hospital I had a CT scan and they discovered that I have Crohn's. So now I'm dealing with amongst the pouch and Crohn's symptoms I'm also dealing with diarrhea which I have always dealt with. I'm also dealing with a complete lifestyle change, as in changing my diet and changing my stress levels. my brother and my mother who have seen me at my worst over the last 32 years have suggested that I stopped working. I have had eight abdominal surgeries and I cannot be operated anymore because I was told by a multitude of Surgeons that I cannot be closed again. Would any of you consider retiring from work at the age of 53 and staying on disability? Or would you put your health at risk and continue working? I am having a hard time right now getting myself to say my health is not a priority and going back to work.