I'm 54 now and diagnosed with uc in my early teens. The disease waxed and waned over the years and no medication seemed to work just right. Imuran worked for me for about
a year. Do your research. It is a very powerful medication with many potential serious side effects. Made the decision to go for the j-pouch in Sept. '08 and so far no regrets. Had temp ileo for 3 months.No biggie!I got used to it pretty quickly and decided that I could handle it even if it was to become permanant for some reason.
Still adjusting to j-pouch. Several trips to the bathroom daily but excellent control,no blood and starting to enjoy life again. A couple instances of pouchitis but again, no biggie. Now just taking probiotics.
I'm sure you've been told many times that the only cure is removal. Once you settle in with that reality it's esy to make the decision to go for the j-pouch. Good luck to you. Jeff