It’s my osto-versary!

365 days ago I had my first surgery. My colon was removed and my life changed as I began to cope with an ileostomy. And what a 365 days it has been.

365 days ago I launched this blog as an outlet, and way to communicate the fact that we ALL go through hardship, and there is an importance in sharing our stories. I have connected with ostomates, IBDers, bloggers, caregivers, nurses, and complete strangers. It’s crazy to me how much good has come from this little project, this little leap of faith and I am proud.

Often I use this platform as a way to channel my trauma and my narrative may come across as sad, while readers are often left with sympathy and perhaps pity. People repeatedly say, “I cried reading your last post!” and as happy as I am to hear that I am making an impact, I don’t want tears!! L I want you to feel happy that I am comfortable enough with myself, and with you, to be able to share. I have cried those tears enough and now I am ready to communicate the emotions behind them.

A good friend once said to me, “Don’t borrow trouble,” after reading one of my earlier posts about my fears and anxiety. And that stuck with me. I know it’s easier said than done, but I remember those words and what they mean. I can’t waste today worrying about tomorrow, or about something that hasn’t happened yet. And although the last 365 day had many downs, many lows, and many “REALLY universe?!” moments there was so much GOOD!

I thought about listing all these events/ accomplishments/ memories from the past year but the truth is, you either lived it with me, or likely already read about them. They were filled with laughs, happy tears, kissing, embracing, dancing, cuddling, sunlight, moonlight, fireflies and butterflies. It was a year filled with perseverance, reflection and growth. And the biggest thing I’ve learned is that I need to be “brave enough to start a conversation that matters.”

There are BIG things coming up this next year and even though my ostomy journey may soon come to an end as I begin life with a J-Pouch, I encourage you to keep engaging with me on this blog. I’ll keep writing if you keep reading. A lot can happen in 365 days and a lot can happen in just 1. I am endlessly thankful for your support over the last year and cannot wait to share with you what is yet to come…. Cause it isn’t trouble.