Hi Nancy,
I hope you don't mind..I moved your post to this section because of the subject matter, hoping it would get more replies here.
I have heard many women discussing the fact that they do all the things post-op, with external pouch, that they used to do before, including swimming and diving. I hope you get some answers from those with pouches. If not, consider joining our email group, there are a number of women with external pouches that share tips now and then.
blcwebcafe.org/listinfo.asp
There is also a group on Yahoo for ostomates. I've heard it was a good resource as well, but do not have the address.
It seems that most of the folks who visit this board do NOT have ostomies (or are quiet) but there are a few.
Would it not be possible to get your leaking problem fixed, I've heard other women say they've had surgery to fix such problems.
Wishing you well,
Wendy