September 23, 2010 – Strong & Healthy, Eternally Grateful
Mt. Veron, Washington Tulip Festival
I thought I would share this response to one of my readers. Recovery from surgery depends alot upon your own personal state of health and attitude. I had my first surgery in July of 2008. followed by takedown in November. I was 49 years old and in good physical health. The doctors and nurses assured me I was a good candidate. I was young, healthy, thing. (They stressed the thin & young part alot!) I felt scared, frightened, anxious and experienced many of the symptoms you describe: exhausted, weak, bloated, crampy, emotional unstable, angry, depressed, with multiple aches and pains. Many of these symptoms are because your body is starving and lacking in vital nutrients, minerals, vitamins and all the good stuff. This makes you not feel good. You won’t feel good until you are better: either medication stabilizes or you have your colon removed. I had the disease for over twenty years. I maintained with many meds but in the end, the meds stopped working and they recomended colon removal. For me, it was the right thing to do. I would suggest that first you trust yourself, listen to your doctors. Don’t be swayed new-fangled woo-woo stuff that could be very dangerous. My opinion is that science based medicine is the best. But, also that one’s own personal attitude of willingness and openess and fearlessness helps too. Ask the hard questions. Don’t let anybody intimidate you. Be polite, but keep asking. You do want your caretakers on your side so you want them to trust you. But you have to trust them to, so it’s okay to push on things you are unclear about. It is their job to take care of you and get you healthy. I am going on my third year in recovery and I am strong and healthy and thankful every day. The quality of my life is a precious and special thing. Being in partnership with others who literally have your life in your hands is one of the best things you can do for yourself. I wish you the best in health, wellness and spirit.
