Having normal trips out with a J-Pouch is very possible. I think when considering a J-Pouch, it’s important to have one eye on the future. An aspiration, a goal that can drive you through the hard times. Whilst a lot of focus does need to go on the steps right in front of you, the J-Pouch should be seen as a step in itself. It should not be seen as the final destination.
The whole point of having a surgery like the J-Pouch procedure, is removing a debilitating disease like ulcerative colitis and giving you your life back. Not life with a J-Pouch, but your life.
I am a strong advocate for this kind of thinking. I believe a positive mental attitude goes a long way in building a better outcome for the longer term.
Power of Normal
When thinking about the aspirations and hopes for your future, don’t under estimate the power of normal. For me, being able to enjoy a simple family day out was a huge win. Being able to enjoy my weekends doing every day normal activities seemed out of reach at my lowest point when living with ulcerative colitis.
Why VLOG?
In an effort to demonstrate this positive approach and a return to normal life, I deliberately include family VLOGS on the Pouch Heals YouTube channel. These VLOGS serve as evidence and motivation (I hope!) that there is light at the end of the tunnel after J-Pouch surgery.
J-Pouch surgery addresses a medical problem, it does not define you.
The latest VLOG entry can be played below.