Living with a chronic illness can be a difficult and isolating experience. For those with Crohn’s disease, the path to recovery often involves surgeries and medical interventions that can have a profound impact on their lives. One such procedure is proctocolectomy surgery, which involves the removal of the rectum and anus.

In her YouTube video titled “What It Looks & Feels Like to Have Your Anus Removed,” Maggie shares her inspiring story of healing, resilience, and empowerment after undergoing this surgery.

An Uncommon Question Addressed:

Maggie begins her video by acknowledging a question she received about what it feels like to no longer have an anus. Though it may not be a typical inquiry, she recognizes the importance of shedding light on the topic for those facing a similar situation or those who simply wish to gain insight.

The Journey of Recovery:

Proctocolectomy surgery is renowned for its challenging recovery process due to the sensitive and highly mobile location of the affected area. Maggie shares that her complete healing took approximately one year. Despite the initial pain and difficulty, she emphasizes the significance of understanding what life would be like a few years down the line, once the healing process is complete.

Appearance and Sensations:

Addressing curiosity surrounding the appearance of her healed surgical site, Maggie explains that her Brazilian wax providers were unable to notice the absence of her anus unless she pointed it out. While acknowledging that individual experiences may vary, she describes her relief at achieving a more natural appearance after years of battling severe Crohn’s disease-related damage.

Overcoming Obstacles:

Throughout her journey, Maggie encountered various challenges and obstacles. She mentions the discovery of a fistula tract during the surgery, which added complexity to her recovery and necessitated careful attention and monitoring. Despite the difficulties, Maggie managed to overcome them with determination, proper wound care, and a meticulous healing regimen.

Gratitude and Empowerment:

Expressing gratitude for the surgery and the positive impact it has had on her life, Maggie recognizes the significance of undergoing the procedure at a young age. This allowed her time to adjust and accept her new reality. Although she now relies on an ostomy bag for her bowel movements, she feels fortunate for the opportunities it has provided. She encourages others to find solace in their experiences, seek support from online communities, and embrace the chance to educate and raise awareness about living without an anus.

Conclusion:

Maggie’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of great challenges, it is possible to find healing, resilience, and empowerment. By sharing her experiences so openly, she not only provides hope and inspiration to others, but she also helps to break down the stigma associated with living with a chronic illness.