Dave,
Best wishes in your journey. This is beatable! Here is my IC assessment copied from a different post:
Hello, all,
A few posts ago in this thread, I asked if anyone with an ileal conduit was willing to share their post surgery experience. I'll answer my own request for the benefit of others!
In Aug, 2015, I underwent a cystoprostatectomy to cure stage 1 high grade cancer. It was my third surgery following the removal of my left kidney and a second surgery to remove the ureter. Life was dark and gloomy for a year.
I am now 6 months post surgery with an ileal conduit diversion and I couldn't be more satisfied with my decision. The first several weeks where challenging in order to test the different appliance systems and get used to how best to change it. Once I settled on the appliance arrangement, I was able to refine the process of changing it weekly. Yes, I am getting 1 full week out of an appliance and that is only because I am choosing not to push it longer. I have gotten the time down to about 10 minutes before a shower to remove it and 5 minutes after to reinstall it. Showering without the appliance once per week is quite nice!
I chose the IC because it would be the quickest way for me to get back to normal and I knew I would struggle with the mental fortitude to train a neobladder. I do not have any regrets.
I am active at home and at work. I travel extensively for work. My wife has had to FedEx supplies to me! I have had no issues traveling by plane or with airport security for that matter.
I had my first round of scans in December and all were clear of cancer. I celebrated the results with my first tattoo.... A compass tattoo with the words Faith, Family, Courage, Hope at the NE, NW, SE, SW locations. My focus on these four things will guide my through the cancer journey.
It's hard to keep spirits up when you get that news but I'm certainly a believer now that there is life without a bladder. Life for me is 6 months at the time for the next 5 years. And I'm going to be damn sure I keep my focus on the important stuff!
Thoughts and prayers to everyone. Thanks for all your support and guidance when I needed it most!
Joe