If you do, how do you carry? What was the reasoning for the ileo/pouch? I myself have Ulcerative Colitis, for those out there who don't know: UC is a disease that affects the colon, which many people do not know is the large intestine. When I say I have UC people ask how much I drink, it's not a disease you get from drinking alcohol. Doctors do not know what causes it, but suspect it is genetic, more so with Caucasian decent. It usually shows its self in your mid 20's, but can happen at anytime. I started having symptoms Nov.'11 and went down hill fast. I spent 2 weeks in the hospital and lost 30 lbs./ couldn't eat and was constantly passing blood. Had a colonoscopy in Dec. '11 and was diagnosed with UC. I was told there was no cure, but with medication the symptoms would be manageable. I started Asacol, it didn't work. I tried various diets, they didn't work. I kept progressing to the point that in April '12 I started Remicade infusions which is administered by iv over 4-5 hours and costs $10,000 for the first injection, and $6,000 for subsequent injections. I failed Remicade within 3 injections. After Remicade the only option I had was surgical removal of my colon in june '12. I chose to have a J-pouch. It is a 2-3 part surgery With the first being removal, creation of the pouch, and creation of ileo stoma. Since June '12 I have had a bag on my beltline with my small intestine sticking out. My 2nd surgery is on monday Oct. 1st "the takedown" and hernia repair. So anyone have any advise/ experience to share?