Hello...I hope that I can help you, but please don't hesitate to ask your surgeon/oncologist any questions or concerns you may have prior to the surgery. Yes, it has been 5 months since my mother's total pelvic exenteration (PVE) procedure. In truth, it has been quite a bumpy road. Within one week of the PVE, my mom became septic and did have to have the colostomy done. (Presently she has both an ileostomy and colostomy.) This second surgery was an emergency procedure. She has been in and out of the hospital for edema (swelling) to her lower extremities, and also for an infection, stemming from the surgery. She has also been in a rehab facility for about a week, following the second surgery. I do think rehab has helped her tremendously. She also had home health, physical and occupational therapy for a couple of weeks at home. Do insist on home health care on discharge. With today's pain meds, discomfort from the surgery was easily controlled. Physically she has yet to gain more weight...not much of an appetite. She is still weak, but strong enough to do most of her daily activities on her own. She has a hard time bending, and cannot lift anything over 4-5 lbs. Emotionally, it has been very difficult for her to accept her new body image. She has good days, and not so good days. With the help of family and close friends, she is actually getting stronger, and now goes out on short trips (stores, the mall, and even had her hair done!). I think with a very strong support system, it truly, truly makes a difference. My father does all of her care, and has been so lovingly supportive. I don't think my mother has actually done much of her own ostomy care up to this day. We don't want to force her to do it. In time, she will be doing more on her own. The procedure has taken quite a toll on her both physically and mentally. PVE is a big, big, surgery, and you should know that recovery is long and at times, difficult. The more you know about it, pre-op, post-op, and also recovery phases, the better. With this procedure, all of the cancer is removed...that's the greatest! How extensive of a surgery will you be having? My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ask questions, ask for support, know that you aren't alone.