Over 30 years of lived experience
The complete guide to the UC to J-Pouch journey
Written by someone who has lived with ulcerative colitis and a J-Pouch for over 30 years — and found a way to live fully again
14 years with UC
3 surgeries
Over 16 years with a J-Pouch
Only comprehensive resource of its kind
BOOKS FROM POUCH HEALS
Real experience. Real recovery.
Ulcerative Colitis: Generations Apart
A true story of family, resilience, and healing — from diagnosis to life after surgery.
“I bought and read your book and it was wonderful. I have lent it to a few loved ones to help them understand having UC and going through the process of these surgeries.” — Pouch Heals viewer
Living with a J Pouch: A Short Survivor’s Guide
A practical lived-experience guide to everyday life with a J-Pouch — tips, reassurance, and perspective.
“Well written and great overview of living with IBD.” — Amazon Kindle reader, United States
Other Amazon Market Places are available. Affiliate links used.
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STAGE 1
New to UC or IBD?
Understanding your diagnosis, treatment options, and what living with IBD really means for your day to day life.
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STAGE 2
Facing surgery?
Understanding your options, preparing your body and mind, and knowing what to expect from each operation.
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STAGE 3
In early recovery?
Practical tips for the first weeks and months — butt burn, training your pouch, food, sleep, and restoring confidence.
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STAGE 4
Living with a J-Pouch?
Long-term confidence, travel, exercise, diet, and real stories from someone over 16 years into the journey.
LATEST FROM THE BLOG
From the blog
- What Is a J-Pouch, and Is It Right for You?If you are facing surgery for ulcerative colitis, one option you may hear about is a J-pouch. But what exactly is a J-pouch? Who might be suitable for one? Who may not be suitable? And is it an option you should explore with your colorectal team? I have lived with a J-pouch for more than 16… Read more: What Is a J-Pouch, and Is It Right for You?
- Dehydration After Stoma or J-Pouch Surgery: What You Need to KnowIf you have a stoma or J-pouch, there is something important you need to know about dehydration: Don’t assume that drinking more plain water is always the complete answer. Staying hydrated isn’t only about how much fluid you drink. It’s also about replacing the salts and electrolytes your body can lose. Without a colon, dehydration… Read more: Dehydration After Stoma or J-Pouch Surgery: What You Need to Know
- What Your First Stoma or J-Pouch Output May Be Like After SurgeryWaiting for stoma surgery or J-pouch takedown can bring a lot of unknowns. One thing people are not always prepared for is what that very first output may be like after surgery. The first time you see it — and especially the first time you smell it — it can be a shock. It may… Read more: What Your First Stoma or J-Pouch Output May Be Like After Surgery
YOUTUBE
Pouch Heals on YouTube
Real stories, practical tips, and honest conversations about life after UC and J-Pouch surgery — covering every stage of the journey in video.