For Charlie, it may be that the bag is uncomfortable against his skin. I don't know what kind he is using but the "cloth" backing are more comfortable than the plastic ones. Additionally, they do make clothing/underwear that has a pocket in them for the ostomy bag. (Check out Ostomy Secrets for ideas.) It may be something you want to check in to. Also, I don't know why some doctors close the area and some leave it open. Leakage of mucus is normal when it is left open as what's left of the colon/rectum still produces mucus. I have read that recovering from closure of the rectum is a painful process.