Hi Jean,
I just wanted to say that 72 is not old! Not for bladder removal, perhaps not even for a neobladder or internal pouch either. The fact you're in good health will help you a lot post-op. Arthritis is nothing to sneeze at, maybe that is why the doctor is choosing for the external pouch surgery, because it means a shorter operating time.
I have to tell you though, everyone I know who's had the external bag has learned to live with it, says their quality of life is good. There have been studies comparing the 3 options for urinary diversions and strangely enough, all three techniques get good reports from the patients, all were equally well-received.
No, unfortunately you're not alone, or should I say fortunately? For a cancer that's supposed to be for older white men, I keep meeting women with this diagnosis all the time.
I wish you all the best,
Wendy