In general, many people can expect to live a normal lifespan after it. What happens to your anus after a colostomy? After a colostomy, stool is released through a stoma in your abdomen.

Having an ostomy now is much different than it used ... So living a very active, healthy, normal life is my patient's main concern. And that absolutely is something that can be achieved.

Debbie Kinder of Charleston, West Virginia has used an ostomy bag for around four years. Her nonprofit, Kinder's Closet, provides free ostomy supplies to anyone who needs them.