Understanding Urinary Diversion: Education, Real Experience, and Expert Guidance 

March 23, 2026

When someone is treated for bladder cancer with removal of the bladder, a big question is: “What is a urinary diversion and what does life look like afterward?” 

We’re bringing together key resources: an educational guide to urinary diversion, a real patient story, and an expert led webinar on a possible complication called parastomal hernia. 

What is a urinary diversion? 

A urinary diversion is a surgery that creates a new way for urine to leave the body after the bladder has been removed. It replaces the bladder’s two main jobs: storing urine and helping the body get rid of it. For people who have had a radical cystectomy for bladder cancer, understanding urinary diversion options can make conversations with their care team easier and less overwhelming. 

You can learn more about how urinary diversion works and the different options available in our in-depth resource, “What Is a Urinary Diversion?,” which explains why it is needed after bladder removal and how each type supports day-to-day life for patients and caregivers.  

A real patient story: John’s journey with urinary diversion 

Medical facts are important, but many people also want to know, “What does this really feel like for someone living through it?” John, a bladder cancer survivor, shares how his story began with a small trace of blood in his urine and evolved into a lifechanging diagnosis, surgery, and recovery. 

In his story, John describes receiving his urinary diversion, adjusting physically and emotionally, and finding a new normal after bladder cancer. His experience offers honest insight, reassurance, and practical wisdom for others who may be facing a similar path. 

Talk with someone who understands: Survivor to Survivor  

Education and clinical expertise are valuable, but connecting with someone who has firsthand experience can be equally meaningful. 

The Survivor to Survivor program offers free, confidential one-on-one support for bladder cancer patients and caregivers. Participants are matched with trained volunteers who have personal experience navigating similar challenges. You can talk to someone who’s been through a specific aspect of bladder cancer, such as choosing a urinary diversion. 

These conversations can help individuals: 

• Ask practical lifestyle questions. 

• Discuss recovery and adjustment. 

• Share concerns openly. 

• Build confidence through peer connection. 

Patients and caregivers can learn more and request a match through the program online. 

After Urinary Diversion: Learn About Complications 

A parastomal hernia is one of the most common complications after urinary diversion surgery. It occurs when tissue such as fat or a portion of the intestine pushes through a weakened area of the abdominal wall near the stoma, creating a visible bulge or swelling around the site. For many people, this change may develop gradually over time and may not cause symptoms at first. As the hernia becomes more noticeable, it can affect how the ostomy appliance fits, cause discomfort, or make daily stoma care more challenging. 

Parastomal hernias are common after cystectomy, though their impact can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals live with a hernia for years with minimal disruption, while others may experience pain, leakage issues, or difficulty maintaining a proper seal with their appliance. In rare cases, more serious complications such as bowel obstruction can occur.

Understanding the signs and knowing when to seek guidance from your care team can help you manage this condition and maintain your quality of life after surgery. Learn more in this webinar about parastomal hernia.

How these resources work together for patients and caregivers

If you or someone you love is living with bladder cancer after cystectomy, BCAN’s resources can help you:

• Build a foundation of medical knowledge.
• Hear directly from someone who has gone through urinary diversion.
• Learn from a surgeon who treats parastomal hernias.