[Cerek the Barbaric]

Originally posted by Reeka: I am so sorry to hear this. My sister had it and finally had to had to have an illeostomy. A close personal friend of mine's mother has it. I well understand what a terrible disease this is. I hope everything goes well. Take care. *hugs*

An illeostomy is what I have now. I had accepted the fact that I might well have it from now on and it actually took a lot of urging from my Gastro doc's before I went in for the surgical consult. I was diagnosed with Crohn's 20 years ago and had to have my first ostomy 10 years ago. Then the Crohn's caused some massive internal injuries 6 years ago and the colostomy was removed and replaced with the illeostomy.

So I've had Crohn's and an ostomy long before I got to know any of you. Hopefully, it is evident that the disease hasn't affected my personality or attitude too much. It is a nasty disease, without a doubt, but there are plenty of others with far more serious conditions and quality of life than I have...so I have no complaints.

I want to thank each of you for your kind words, support, and prayers. It means more to me than I could ever truly express. It is threads such as this that show the true quality of the Ironworks community, when we can put any personal differences aside in order to rally around one of our own. Ironworks is very much like a global family and I feel a special kinship with all of you. Thank you again for being here when I needded you.