Back in 1974, I had a Brooke Ileostomy done for Ulcerative Colitis.  For 15 years I wore the bag, which was less than satisfactory. I would try to hide in a corner when I changed clothes at the Gym, and was ashamed of the bag hanging on my belly. I also had lots of accidents, the worst of which was at my place of work, where the bag broke.  What a mess.

Dr. Barnett happened to be in Madison where I lived at the time and was telling about his procedure.  I just knew that I had to have this done to me.  In 1989, I went to St. Petersburg, to have it done to me.    I now am 76 years old (2002) and doing wonderful with the BCIR.  I no longer am ashamed, and in the 12+ years since, have had very little problems.  I will forever be grateful for making the decision to have it done.

Dr. Barnett is gone now, but I am so thankful for what he did for me.  I would be willing to share my experience with anyone who needs this type of operation. My son too has an ileostomy, but his is called a pull-through.  He has had nothing but grief with his, and wants to go to the Brooke.