J Pouch Support facebook group hits 1700 members

J Pouch Support facebook group hits 1700 members

The J-pouch support (UK specific) facebook group is a super platform for the sharing of questions, comments, information, tips and advice on pouches.  It has been in existence for 10 years or so and has never been so popular.  We posted a story of the 1,500^th member, Amanda Nash, not so long ago.  Well, the membership has just recently passed 1,700, reflecting the value of this j pouch support facebook group to pouchees and their loved ones.  

The 1,700^th member is James Miller and here is his story:

I’m a specialist in data and analytics and currently leading a fast-growing management consultancy. It is a busy and full-on job, growing and running the business.
I stress this, as I was so sick before I had my ileo-anal pouch, I wasn’t sure I’d ever work again. Thankfully, my pouch has enabled me to live as normal a life as possible, and I’ve been determined to live it on my own terms.
I live in Buckinghamshire with a very understanding wife, two teenagers (less understanding) and a dog (who keeps me fit). Hobbies wise, I love exercise, a bit of cycling, gym stuff, and time in the garden.
I was originally diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 2010, and none of the standard medications worked, apart from steroids. After 4 years on and off steroids, and essentially in a constant state of flaring, I was very ill, tired, and at my wits end.
In 2014 I elected to have pouch surgery after deciding against biologic medication. I was taken through the various risks and considerations by Janindra Warusavitarne at St. Marks Hospital and saw that I was in expert hands. St. Mark’s has been a feature of my life for 15 years, and the team there continues to provide amazing support. I’m happy to travel the 40 odd miles to my appointments, despite the London traffic!
I chose a pouch over a stoma as I have always been sporty and felt that with my hands full with two small children (at the time), I didn’t fancy having an external bag.
My surgery was completed over the course of three ‘sessions’ and full pouch connection was made in December 2014.
I’ve lived with the pouch for 10 years now, and for most of that time things have been great. They are certainly better than before the surgery and I’m much fitter overall now than I was in my mid-thirties.
I have had a couple of cases of pouchitis, which were well managed by antibiotics. My pouch function has changed, and it is slightly less effective, but still very manageable. I’ve also discovered that psyllium husk works wonders for my pouch function.
When I had my pouch I was told that like a baby it can be irritable and prefers routine, which was excellent advice.
Over the years I’ve helped a few people considering surgery answer their questions about the j pouch and tried to show them that it can actually be a very liberating surgery.
I’ve joined the group as I thought it was a good idea to finally join the wider pouch community after a decade of living with one.

Thank you so much for taking the time to pen your story James and very best wishes for continuing good pouch health. 

David Davies
RLG Chairman and Facebook group administrator

The J Pouch Support (UK specific) facebook group is a private group that welcomes members from all over the world. If you are not already a member you can submit a join request by clicking here.