Four months ago, I had bowel surgery resulting in an ileostomy, which means I now have a small opening in my belly where waste from my body exits into a stoma bag. This surgery changed my life in big ways, and now I’m getting ready to celebrate my first World Ostomy Day.
This day is important because it gives me a chance to think about how far I’ve come and to connect with others who understand what it’s like to live with an ostomy.
World Ostomy Day is all about new beginnings and being strong. It’s a special day for people like me who have an ostomy to celebrate how much we’ve achieved, even when things have been tough. It’s a day to be proud of overcoming challenges and to remember that we’re part of a community that truly understands our journey.
Connecting with the Ostomy Community
Just knowing about World Ostomy Day has helped me connect with many people who have similar experiences. I spend a lot of time on TikTok, sharing my day-to-day life with my stoma (the opening in my belly) and finding others who are going through the same thing. This makes me feel less alone and more supported, knowing that others get what I’m going through.
I’m excited to hear from others about their journeys and tips for living with an ostomy. I’ve been following people on social media who share their experiences, and I can’t wait to be part of these conversations. My stoma has changed my life in ways I never imagined, giving me a greater appreciation for living. I’m eager to make new friends, share stories, and create amazing memories along the way.
Raising Awareness in My Community
World Ostomy Day has started some important conversations in my community. Through local events, social media posts, and my TikTok videos, more people are learning about what an ostomy is and why some of us need one. This has led to greater understanding and acceptance.
One of my friends even found the courage to go through with his own surgery after seeing my journey. Now, we meet up every month to share our experiences—both the good and the challenging parts of living with an ostomy.
I plan to join online discussions and community events to connect with others and learn more about living with an ostomy. I’m really looking forward to sharing my experiences, hearing from others, and becoming part of this supportive community. I believe that participating will boost my confidence and help me feel even more positive about my journey.
If I could share one message with others living with an ostomy, it would be this: Having an ostomy is not the end; it’s a fresh start.
Embrace the support around you and don’t hesitate to reach out to others. Together, we can overcome challenges and live full, vibrant lives. For me, having an ileostomy hasn’t held me back—it’s opened possibilities I never imagined. I even returned to the football field last week for the first time in over a year, something I had to give up because of my illness post-surgery.
Although I haven’t participated in World Ostomy Day yet, I’ve heard from others that it’s an incredible resource. Many people find that the events and resources shared during this day help them connect with support groups, discover helpful websites, and learn about better products. These connections often make managing an ostomy easier and provide much-needed support. I’m excited to explore these benefits myself in the future.
I felt truly empowered when I shared my story on social media and received so much encouragement and understanding. It was amazing to know my experience could help others. The messages from people who find my journey inspiring make it all worthwhile. It’s important to show that there’s no shame in having an ostomy and to support each other proudly.
This year, I plan to organise a charity football match with a friend who also has an ileostomy. I want to start a video podcast about life with an ileostomy, from before to after surgery. I’m excited to meet others, share experiences, and discover new ways to live confidently with my stoma.
Having an ileostomy has given me my life back after seven challenging years, and I’m forever grateful.
Follow Jake on Instagram at @jakeblewsam