How long does it take for it to get into a regular routine after chemotherapy?

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Because my chemo started just quite soon after I’d had the stoma at the start it was still quite round, and I think probably it’s quite swollen as well for a while until it settles down.

So, it eventually then became oval. So, I have an oval shaped stoma now and when my bags are precut they’re cut into that oval shape.

That changed whilst I was having chemo. The shape of my stoma changed.

I think it most for most people that happens, and it happens within a few months of your stoma being created, but mine did change, so I had to get different bags.

So, after chemo finished, I took chemo for three months and then after that I would say it took a good three to six months after that for my bowel to start to settle down.

I always say to people when anyone asks me, how long does it take for it to get into a regular routine?

You’re told by the surgeons and the stoma nurses will normally tell you it takes about six months for your bowel to settle down. But I would say when chemo comes in between, it took me a good year until I got into a routine, and it does.

I didn’t believe at the start. I didn’t believe it ever would get into any kind of routine. Just thinking this thing is never going to settle down.

It’s a nightmare and I was changing it, when I came home from hospital, I was changing it five times a day, which at the very beginning that was really horrendous. I came home from hospital with a flat standard bag and it wasn’t, I think because of the velocity of output at the time and your body’s getting used to it that I would say that anybody else, this may not be right for everybody else, but certainly as soon as I discovered a convex bag, it made a big, big difference.

When I came home from hospital, I think because I was just using the standard bag just immediately after getting the stoma, that gave me a lot more leaks. So, like I said, I was changing the bag five times a day and then I had really, really sore skin. That’s when I found out about the barrier wipe and use the barrier wipes.

But my bowel, it did settle down and it did settle down so within a year of me having the operation. It very much settled down and I said, you know, I look back when people say to me is it ever going to settle down, this is a nightmare.

Yes and no, because I was there, but trust me, it really does. It does settle down and it’s now into such a regular routine. Sometimes I even forget I have a stoma.

Practical tips for coping with an irregular routine

Your stoma will change shape and size, tips for managing this:

  • Measure your stoma regularly to ensure a secure fit, that the pouch isn’t too loose or too tight.
  • Consider a mouldable seal around your stoma as an extra barrier if your pouch is cut inaccurately.
  • Your routine may change – don’t worry this is normal, especially as chemotherapy drugs are in your system.
  • Your stoma and your body is unique to you, as such it can take a while for your routine to settle but you will get into a rhythm.
  • Talk to your stoma care nurse if you are concerned or visit eakin.eu for more advice.

Kathy
@thinkbowelcancer

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Expanding your support network during chemo

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So, I think it’s such a massive shock when you have a stoma created and you do need a lot of support.

There are groups online, so I found a lot of support from those groups there. If you go onto Facebook, you can join lots of stoma support groups and those range from people who have stomas for years who are old hands and are very wise and will give you lots of great tips, to people coming on who are new and maybe discovering new things as well. So those are really great and supportive resource to have.

You can get a lot from your supplier, your home delivery company. They are usually pretty experienced as as well because they’ll have loads of patients who’ve gone through the same thing. So you can ask them questions and ask them for advice as well as your stoma nurses also.

I used Macmillan. Macmillan are fantastic. So, Macmillan Cancer. I just can’t even. I can’t even describe how amazing they are. I didn’t even know half the stuff they did until I went through cancer treatment, and they helped me with all sorts of financial help, you know, dealing with HMRC, dealing with the council, on council tax and all those kind of things, and I didn’t even know stuff like that exists. It’s definitely one of my biggest tips to anybody going through cancer treatment is just to find out what Macmillan do, because there’s so much they do that can help you.

I mean, there’s a huge stigma still to bust around stomas, let’s be honest, it’s better than it used to be.

But it’s still very, it’s very hidden and a lot of people don’t talk about it and you know it’s talked about very discreetly and whereas when you have a stoma, it’s certainly the way that I have found best to deal with it just be open and honest. You know it’s something that saved my life and it’s part of me now and it’s great, you know, it’s enabling me to continue living so I wouldn’t ever dream of being discreet about it or, you know, not talking about it and not being open about it. And I find that by me being open about it, everybody else is too.

I know lots of people with stomas, and we all chat and we all help each other out. And you know, we all give tips and advice and that’s for the. the really good support comes also, and it’s not always right, so you know. So, I would say caveat that with make sure that you’re also getting advice from your stoma nurses from properly trained professionals also.

There’s all sorts of weird stuff that’s put out there on the Internet, so you do you.

A piece of advice that I would encourage people to have is that there are the statistics. Are the statistics, don’t Google too much. Don’t rely on statistics. Don’t look at statistics because you are you and you will be going through your own unique individual journey.

There are more people now getting cancer and treatments have changed. Those statistics will change as well, so there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t be the first person to do something different.

So just try not to take try not to overthink and try not to look into statistics or to think that because it’s happened to someone else that’s going to happen to you and just go through your own experience. But if you can, I did find people who are like you and who can inspire you because that will keep you going. There are so many sites out there. Stay away from the ones that are negative. Stay away from anybody who’s negative and brings you down. And just surround yourself. I mean this was my biggest piece of advice would be surround yourself with really positive people.

So, you know, surround yourself with people who are really can do and who want to lift you up all the time and give you energy when you’re going through tough cancer treatments.

Stay away from those people who are just energy drainers because that’s the last thing you need so you know there’s so many sites out there.

There are so many support groups with people who are really positive and who will lift you up and who will make you see that anything is possible.

Just remember

You are not in this alone. It is up to you who you want to tell and ask for help but don’t do this alone. Speak to close family and friends and don’t be afraid to ask for help – which doesn’t have to be stoma related, pick up shopping, cook a meal or just be there for you.

Voice your concerns. Speak to your stoma care nurse, oncology team or even your home delivery company on any thoughts or concerns you have. If they don’t know the exact answer, they will always signpost you so you can feel supported through your journey.

You are you. This is your journey, don’t worry about statistics or trust everything you read online. Focus on positive people, support groups and sites that help you understand and build you up. This is your journey, and you can control how you move forward.

Kathy
@thinkbowelcancer

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Kevin’s Barbie/Ken butt surgery

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Preparation, recovery, and advice

For those considering Barbie/Ken butt surgery, this blog post shares my personal experience from preparation to recovery and offers some advice for anyone about to undergo this transformative procedure.

Pre-surgery preparation

Deciding to undergo my Barbie/Ken butt surgery was an easy choice for me we decided around 18 months prior to my surgery that this would be my chosen route. There was a huge delay and out of the blue I received a call telling me the operation was finally going to take place and I had a date in 6 weeks time. It didn’t give me much time to get prepared but this was something that was finally happening and hopefully going to resolve many continual complications, Living with Crohn’s and numerous operations this would hopefully give me a period of respite. Although this was not the case more to come on that later. It required thorough research and consultations with my surgeon and the team. Here are the steps I took to prepare:

Research: I spent considerable time understanding the procedure, including risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. Reliable sources and forums with real patient reviews were invaluable.

Consultations: I met with my surgeon to discuss the proceedure and understand the risks of the surgery from nerve damage, sexual function and other issues that may occur within the pelvis area.

Health check-up: Ensuring I was in good health was a priority. I underwent a full medical examination to confirm I was a suitable for surgery. This included blood tests, a physical exam, and discussing my medical history

Mental preparation: Mental readiness is as important as physical readiness. I set myself  realistic expectations and prepared myself for the recovery process, which I knew would be demanding. I guess knowing the length of recovery from previous surgeries it helped me to visualise the time I would need. 

Logistics: I arranged for time off work, someone to assist me during the initial recovery period, and prepared my home for post-surgery comfort. Having everything in place beforehand made a significant difference in my recovery experience.

The day of surgery

On the day of surgery, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The medical team was reassuring, which helped ease my nerves and seeing the regular team of nurses who mentioned they had the VIP suite ready for me helped calm the nerves. The procedure itself took a 9 hours in total after some complications and I was under general anesthesia throughout. When I woke up in the recovery room, I was groggy but relieved it was over.

Recovery experience

Recovery was the most challenging part of the journey, but it was manageable with the right mindset and support. Here’s how it went for me:

Immediate post-surgery: The first 48 hours were tough. I experienced discomfort and swelling, which is normal. Pain medication and following the post-operative care instructions from my surgeon were essential.

First week: I spent most of my time resting and avoiding strenuous activities. Sitting was limited to short periods using a special cushion to minimise pressure on the buttocks. Then it all went wrong my nurse had Covid and weirdly I had a sore throat, cough and spiking temperature I was checked for Covid all clear but sent for an urgent CT scan this showed a huge infection in my pelvis and the start of sepsis. I was taken down to surgery that afternoon to fit a drain in my Ken doll bum that had just been sewn up now has a drain coming from it. 

Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with my surgeon were crucial to monitor my healing progress and address any concerns, this again after feeling slightly better I suffered another slight smaller infection in the pelvis I could not thank the team enough they were on hand anytime I needed them and did all they could to pull me right. These visits reassured me that I was on the right track.

Gradual improvement: Swelling started to subside after the first week, and I could see the initial results of the surgery. It took about ten weeks before I felt more comfortable moving around and resuming light activities after the many complications.

Long-term recovery: Full recovery took a few months. Patience was key as my body adjusted and the final results became apparent. Following my surgeon’s guidelines for physical activity and scar care played a vital role in achieving the best outcome.

Advice for future patients

If you’re considering Barbie/Ken butt surgery, here are some tips based on my experience:

Choose the right surgeon: Take your time to find someone you trust and who discusses every eventuality, I knew exactly what I was going into, but I also had the knowledge that this team had looked after me on 6 of my 9 operations so I felt in good hands.

Prepare mentally and physically: Understand the commitment involved in the surgery and recovery. Ensure you’re in good health and mentally prepared for the journey ahead.

Follow instructions: Adhere strictly to your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. This will aid in a smoother recovery and help achieve the best possible results.

Arrange support: Have a support system in place. Whether it’s a friend or family member, having someone to help with daily tasks during the initial recovery period is invaluable.

Be patient: Recovery is a gradual process. Stay patient and positive as your body heals and adjusts. Remember, the final results take time to become fully visible.

Undergoing Barbie/Ken butt surgery was a life-changing experience for me. With proper preparation and a positive outlook, the journey can be incredibly rewarding. If you’re considering this procedure, I hope my experience provides you with insight and encouragement as you embark on your own transformation.

Kevin

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Being a midwife with a stoma

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Every person in this world has been cared for by a midwife whether that be during pregnancy, in labour, or as a neonate. It was actually the actions of a midwife that led to my life being saved.

I have wanted to work in healthcare for as long as I can remember, spending my life in and out of hospital must have swayed me towards a career in the NHS. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, there are so many paths to choose from, and I just knew my place was helping other people.

I think there are many similarities between going through a stoma journey and the journey of pregnancy, they both encompass huge physical changes along with the emotional and mental demands. Even though I haven’t had children yet or experienced pregnancy and birth, going through such a significant health journey helps me to emphasise with women and their families.

As I developed as a midwife I found a passion for supporting women with disabilities or additional needs and improving their care experience. Living with the outcome of a rare disease has taught me how difficult it can be to go through such big life events whilst coping with a disability and also how hard it can be to access healthcare suited to individual needs. I have cared for women and families in their most vulnerable moments including spending shifts in the critical care unit, helping women mobilise after surgery, moments that I can truly emphasise with.

There have been some moments that have really challenged me due to past trauma, watching a patient go under a general anaesthetic in an emergency has proven to be very stressful for me but over time I have managed my emotions well to support the woman in that moment as best I can. One time I had the pleasure of scrubbing in theatre, this meant I could get ‘right on in there’, it was amazing to be able take part in such an important surgery.

For five years now I have been working in the maternity setting. Three of these years were spent training on the maternity wards whilst I was reversed, struggling through shifts with loose stools, pain and sore skin. Looking back on my time at university, I often wonder how I managed to get through it. I had my stoma surgery 4 days after qualifying as a midwife.

The jump from being a student to being qualified in healthcare is huge. The responsibility that you have from that first day you put your blue uniform on is immense.  10 weeks after my stoma surgery I started my new job, working as a midwife in labour ward. Not only was I re-navigating life with a stoma, I also had a new found responsibility of caring for women in the most stressful environment in maternity. 

Telling colleagues

It was hard to know whether to tell colleagues about my stoma. I decided to not hide the fact I have a stoma and to be open when an opportunity came to talk about it. The majority of staff have been very positive about it and have taken time to ask questions. By telling others it felt easier to ask for help on days I was not feeling my best.

Bag changes at work

Bag bursts at work have always been a bit of a worry for me. When I get a leak it’s usually quite significant and requires a full outfit change which is quite time consuming. I have had a few memorable bag bursts at work but have managed to resolve these quite discreetly thanks to supportive staff. I always make sure I have enough supplies to hand and a spare change of uniform just in-case.

Long hours

Working shifts has been my biggest struggle at work, I do really enjoy nightshifts as the ward tend to have less hustle and bustle and the dimmed lights help all of the good birth hormones.

Healthcare workers often get ‘nightshift belly’ which is only intensified when you have a bowel problem. Bloating can become very sore overnight and working in such a busy environment doesn’t allow much time to rest or sit down, this always made my symptoms worse. I regularly came home from nightshift with so much abdominal pain and back pain that I spent my next day off just recovering ready for my next shift.

Nutrition and hydration were also quite difficult for me, I would often forget to drink during a shift and go home with my water bottle almost full. Each day I didn’t know exactly what I would feel like eating and drinking do I always packed for any eventuality.

Working in labour ward was a particularly physical role. I was regularly helping to push beds, supporting women in different positions, lifting items and moving patients. By the end of a shift I was in so much pain that sometimes the next day I could hardly move. Doing such heavy work I have always worried that I might get a hernia one day but I wear supportwear to try and prevent this and avoid manual tasks where I can.

As I am a relatively new midwife I have been rotated to a different department to help consolidate my learning. I am currently with the Community Midwifery team where I care for women antenatally in clinic and postnatally in their homes, after a year and a half of shift work I am really appreciating the daytime hours. Community Midwifery also has the benefit of home visits, I love being able to have my car to store all of my spare supplies and a spare set of uniform. I also get the bonus of driving through the Scottish countryside and seeing all of the farm animals along the way.

I still have good days and bad days, in-fact I recently had a bag burst midway through my clinic and quickly got my bag changed and cleaned up in the space of five minutes.

Funnily enough I still haven’t missed the birth of a baby due to using the bathroom however, I have assisted the births of many babies with a full bag!

Being a part of the most precious and pivotal moments of a woman’s life is such a privilege and honour and I can’t think of a more rewarding job.

Anna

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Self-care with a stoma

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I remember all the emotions I felt when I was told I needed a stoma bag, my first thought was I’d have to completely change my wardrobe and live in baggy clothes, I’d no longer be able to go to the gym or socialise with family and friends.

However, I realised I was so wrong. My stoma bag has improved my life completely, and gave me my life back. Physically, I feel stronger and fitter than before surgery, I attend the gym 4x a week and this includes weightlifting, classes and cardio. I walk my dog and I attend Pilates classes weekly to strengthen my core.

My social life has improved post surgery as well! I can attend events and enjoy days/nights out without worrying about where the nearest bathroom is!

Journaling has been a huge part of my recovery. Mentally, it’s has improved my outlook and allowed me to appreciate my stoma and appreciate a happier and healthier version of myself.

Eakin Healthcare have really helped me come to terms with my stoma. Their products are manufactured to such a high standard and it gives me confidence to leave the house without worrying about bag leaks 🫶🏼

Ayesha

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My bowel cancer diagnosis

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I was diagnosed in January 2023 with bowel cancer with Metastasis into the liver, and was scheduled to have a bowel resection on 16th of February. I was told I would have a resection with the possibility of a stoma if things looked different during surgery, so I was preparing myself for either. On the 14th of February I ended up having my bowel surgery to remove the cancer due to a complete bowel obstruction, and was made aware by my surgeon I would require a stoma, due to the obstruction.

A stoma nurse came and spoke with me the day before surgery, she marked my stomach up as to where my stoma would be going and also discussed the products available for my stoma.

After my surgery I wanted to see my stoma as a positive, as once that section of my colon was removed that meant the cancer was also going from the descending colon – in my eyes my stoma was saving my life.

After surgery I awoke and saw my stoma, yes, it was a little different, but aren’t we all different? It would be a little boring if we all were the same!

That’s the mindset I started to take in relation to my stoma. A couple of days after surgery I decided to name my stoma. I named it after Moira from the sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’, as she likes to be dramatic and in the early days so did my stoma.

After I felt more alert post-surgery, the stoma nurse came to see me again and we discussed how to change my stoma bag etc., she also explained the products available to me.

I have a little six year old, and I wanted to be as open and honest to her, as children that age are extremely inquisitive and ask a lot of questions.

From the day I got my stoma, and when I got home, I showed her the stoma in her time and discussed in a child-appropriate way why I needed one. I told her part of my bowel (where our poop goes) was broken and the Doctor has to remove it, so now I have something called a stoma.

She now calls it ”mummy’s tummy bum” and in all honestly I love the name. We had  a good laugh when she first called it that. She also finds it “pretty cool, Mum poops from her tummy bum”. Children really are brilliant.

She also received a Bear called Buttony Bear (from my stoma nurse in the hospital)along with a book, which was lovely and helped break the ice. My husband was able to read the book to her and discuss more.

Speaking with people who understand how to use the products and also how stomas work, in my opinion makes me feel seen, heard and understood. Especially at a time when having a cancer diagnosis is a lot to get your head around, then add in receiving a stoma.

I’m now nine months post stoma surgery and I’ve been getting on brilliantly with my stoma, it does take some adjusting to, I would be lying if I said it didn’t. I have to make sure I’ve always got a good supply of products when out and about, knowing where the restrooms are in case, I need to change my pouch.

Amy
@mybowelcancerjourney

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Better sleep with a stoma – how carers can help

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Because a good night’s sleep is so vital for physical and emotional health, you might be worried about how living with a stoma will impact your loved one’s night-time routine. Some simple tips can help by putting your mind at ease about the risk of overnight leakage.

Sleeping well with a stoma

Try these popular steps to make positive night-time preparations a norm for yourself and the person you care for:

  • Pouch check: Always perform a pouch change, or ensure the pouch is empty, before bedtime. Double check that the pouch is on properly.
  • Meal times: Don’t serve the last meal too close to bedtime to give the stoma time to do its work beforehand. It’s also a good idea to avoid fibrous food late in the day, as well as fizzy drinks.
  • Comfort: Your loved one will get a better night’s sleep if they are comfortable. Try to support their body with pillows, with one in between their legs or under their back.

Questions? To support you as much as possible we have created a leaflet dedicated to carers, for friends and family caring for ostomates. It aims to help you to understand what happens during and after stoma surgery and give practical tips on how you can help your loved one. You can download it here.

For more support simply speak to your stoma care nurse or our care team.

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A helping hand for carers and ostomates: popular ostomy accessories

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From a better fit to easier pouch removal, some tried-and-tested accessories can give a little extra help to ostomates and their carers. These four types of eakin® accessories are already widely in use and can make a big difference to a pouch routine.

Ostomy accessories and how they can help

A range of supporting accessories can help create a secure fit and make a pouch easier to manage as well as more comfortable.

  • Seals – for a better fit: eakin® seals are donut-shaped stretchable fitting aids you can mould around a stoma to ensure a secure, skin-friendly fit as well as prevent leaks. Both the world-renowned eakin Cohesive® seals and the new, thinner eakin freeseal® have been developed by eakin®. Simply apply to then fit a pouch as usual.
  • Paste – extra support for fit and leak prevention: Paste can be used as a filler to smooth out the skin around the stoma for a better pouch fit and reduced risk of leaks. eakin Cohesive® paste is a popular choice as it offers an alcohol-free, no sting formulation.
  • Barrier protection – skin protection and adhesion: eakin protect® barrier film is a product designed to protect the skin from bodily fluids while also moisturising and creating a good surface for pouch adhesion. It’s there to give you a helping hand, offering durable skin protection.
  • Adhesive remover – easier pouch removal: Using eakin release® adhesive remover can help make pouch removal both less painful and help prevent skin stripping. It offers rapid, skin friendly pain-free removal of your pouch and other adhesive dressings combined with a fresh minty scent to help mask odours during each pouch change.

How to try ostomy accessories

To check if an accessory would help you and the person you care for, simply order a free sample or ask your stoma care nurse for advice.

Questions? To support you as much as possible we have created a leaflet dedicated to carers, for friends and family caring for ostomates. It aims to help you to understand what happens during and after stoma surgery and give practical tips on how you can help your loved one. You can download it here.

For more support simply speak to your stoma care nurse or our care team.

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Stoma 101 for carers: the essentials

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If you’re new to caring for someone with a stoma you might still be adjusting to the basics. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! The good news is that your journey from newcomer to seasoned ostomate carer can take as long as you like. Let’s start at the beginning by explaining the types of stoma and the pouches used to give post-stoma surgery ostomates freedom to enjoy their lifestyle.

What is a stoma?

A stoma is made when part of the bowel is brought outside the body through a small surgical opening on the abdomen. It’s created to divert waste from the body and will look circular or oval and pink. It has no nerve endings, so it should not feel painful to the touch.

After the operation when someone has to have a stoma, waste will pass from the body through the stoma, and is collected in a pouch worn on the abdomen.

Colostomy

Where: Formed from the colon, also known as the large intestine.

Output: Generally paste-like to semi-formed.

Ileostomy

Where: From the ileum, also known as the small intestine.

Output: Usually quite liquid in consistency.

Urostomy

Where: Formed by joining a small section of the ileum to the ureters.

Output: urine and possibly some mucus.

What types of pouches are available?

Your loved one will need to wear a pouch to collect the waste from their stoma.

The pouch is attached to their body by a ‘baseplate’ and comes in two types: one-piece and two-piece.

As a stoma changes you may find the original products prescribed don’t fit just as well. You have control to change the pouch or add accessories to ensure a comfortable and secure routine.

  • One-piece pouching systems

What does it look like: A pouch with a ‘baseplate’ on the back to attach to the ostomate’s body.

How does it work: When changing the pouch, the whole system is removed and replaced.

  • Two-piece pouching systems

What does it look like: A pouch with a large opening and a separate baseplate.

How does it work: The pouch can be changed without the need to remove the baseplate.

  • Drainable pouches

What does it look like: A longer design with an opening at the bottom of the pouch.

How does it work: Designed for ileostomates and those with a more liquid output, can be emptied and resealed.

  • Closed pouches

What does it look like: A smaller pouch with no opening to drain output.

How does it work: Retains the entire output, generally for people with a colostomy, as the output is more formed.

  • Urostomy pouches

What does it look like: A pouch with a ‘tap’ design.

How does it work: Helps those with a urostomy stoma as its tap can be opened and closed for easy drainage.

You’ll also see pouches described as having a ‘flat baseplate’ or ‘convex baseplate’. This simply means that a flat design is best suited to someone with a protruding stoma while a convex baseplate pushes down on the stoma to help it protrude as this helps to prevent leaks.

You can browse eakin® ostomy pouches by type of stoma here to familiarise yourself with the options available.

Where to find help

Questions? To support you as much as possible we have created a leaflet dedicated to carers, for friends and family caring for ostomates. It aims to help you to understand what happens during and after stoma surgery and give practical tips on how you can help your loved one. You can download it here.

For more support simply speak to your stoma care nurse or our care team.

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Kevin’s mental health journey with a stoma

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Top Tips for Mental Health Awareness Week

Living with a stoma presents unique challenges that can impact mental health in profound ways. As someone who has navigated this journey firsthand, I understand the importance of mental health awareness, especially during Mental Health Awareness Week. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experiences and offer some top tips for maintaining mental well-being while living with a stoma.

My Mental Health Journey:

When I first received my stoma, I was overwhelmed with a mix of emotions – fear, uncertainty, and even a sense of loss. It’s natural to feel this way when faced with a significant change in your body and lifestyle. Adjusting to life with a stoma took time, patience, and a lot of self-compassion.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was learning to accept my new reality. It took time to come to terms with the fact that my body would never be the same again. However, through self-reflection and support from loved ones, I gradually began to embrace my stoma as a part of who I am.

Another hurdle was dealing with the practical aspects of living with a stoma, such as managing supplies, avoiding leaks, and adapting to a new diet. These challenges often led to feelings of frustration and anxiety. However, with the help of my healthcare team and online support groups, I learned valuable coping strategies and felt less alone in my journey.

Top Tips for Mental Health Awareness Week:

  1. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out for support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. Talking about your feelings and experiences can be incredibly cathartic and can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
  2. Practice Self-Care: Make self-care a priority in your daily routine. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in a hobby you enjoy, find activities that energise your mind and body
  3. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Take the time to educate yourself about your condition, treatment options, and self-care strategies. Understanding your stoma and how to care for it can help you feel more empowered and in control of your health.
  4. Connect with Others: Joining support groups or online communities for people living with stomas can provide valuable peer support and practical advice. Sharing your experiences with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating and empowering.
  5. Be Kind to Yourself: Living with a stoma can be challenging, but it’s essential to be gentle with yourself. Give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions arise and practice self-compassion. Remember, you are resilient and capable of overcoming any obstacles that come your way.
  6. Stay Positive: Focus on the things you can control and try to maintain a positive outlook, even on difficult days. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and build on the things in your life that bring you joy and fulfillment.
  7. Stay Active: Physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Find ways to stay active that work for you, whether it’s going for a swim, practicing yoga, or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Living with a stoma may present its challenges as it has for me, but it doesn’t have to define you or dictate your happiness. By prioritising your mental health, seeking support, and practicing self-care, you can navigate this journey with resilience. Remember, you are not alone.

Kevin

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