To Rah-I am happy to hear from a man who is as proud of his bag as I am. I agree with everything you said. I actually did not have a choice of diversions since I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis just prior to my RC and the doctor, wisely, would not consider the other two. I was diappointed at first but now realize that for ME, the bag is the way to go. No, it is not natural but it is so easy, convenient, and as Rah said, I can do everything I did before the surgery. I am very active and not a couch potato. I hike, travel, work in my garden, and swim though not in a bikini but who needs an excuse not to wear a bikini at 60.
To Ray-Again everyone seems happy with whatever diversion they choose. You are a young man and I can understand wanting to remain as natural as possible. As a woman, my biggest negative to a bag is the fear that someone will attack me in the restroom for standing and facing the toilet to urinate. LOL I am sure that sooner or later I will be caught in the act.
I wish you the best in your decision and your surgery.
Balihigh