Every year, people around the world come together to celebrate World Ostomy Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about life with an ostomy.
An ostomy is a surgical procedure where an opening is created in the body to allow waste to leave through a stoma, often when someone has had a part of their bowel or bladder removed. It may sound a bit unusual, but for many people, this surgery is life-saving, and it can lead to a much better quality of life.
Those who live with a stoma, like me, are called ostomates.
World Ostomy Day is important because it helps people understand what it’s like to live with a stoma. It also gives ostomates a chance to share their stories, inspire others, and feel connected to a supportive community.
For me, this day is not only about raising awareness, but also about giving hope and showing that life with a stoma can be full of possibilities. I love using this day to talk about my journey, and how my life changed for the better after struggling with Crohn’s Disease for many years.
My Journey with Crohn’s Disease and a Stoma
Before my surgery, I spent years suffering from Crohn’s Disease, a condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. This led to a lot of pain, discomfort, and serious health issues. But after getting my stoma, everything changed. It wasn’t an easy decision, and at first, I was scared.
However, the surgery gave me back the ability to enjoy life without the constant pain and struggles. Now, I’m able to do things I couldn’t before, and I feel healthier and more confident.
On World Ostomy Day, I get the chance to share my story with others. By talking about my experiences, I hope to encourage others with stomas or those facing surgery to know that life isn’t over after getting a stoma — in fact, it’s a fresh start. There are challenges, of course, but there is also so much support and so many resources available that can help you navigate life as an ostomate.
The Power of Community and Support
One of the best parts of World Ostomy Day is meeting other ostomates. I’ve attended several events where we come together to share our stories and learn from each other. It’s amazing how much comfort you can find when you meet someone who understands what you’ve been through. You don’t feel as isolated, and it’s inspiring to hear other people’s journeys as well.
Last year, I was lucky enough to hold my own event at Ribby Hall Spa Hotel, with the help of two companies, Hollister and Dansac – manufacturers of products for ostomates.
The event focused on boosting body confidence after bowel surgery.
I shared my story, but what made the event special was that it gave other ostomates a chance to open up and talk about their experiences too. It was a wonderful atmosphere where we could all learn from each other, try out new products, and just relax.
We also had a guest speaker who talked about mental health and gave tips on what foods to eat or avoid after surgery. Events like these are so important because they remind us that we are not alone, and that we can still live active and fulfilling lives with the right tools, support, and mindset.
A New Beginning, Not the End
Having a stoma doesn’t mean life is over. In fact, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. That’s the message I love to share, especially on World Ostomy Day. With the right products and support wear, ostomates can still enjoy many of the activities they loved before surgery. For me, finding the right products made a big difference. It gave me the confidence to do things I hadn’t been able to do for years.
This year, I’m excited to continue raising awareness and building connections in the ostomy community. I’ll be presenting my story at one of Hollister and Dansac’s manufacturing plants in Ireland, talking about the importance of using the right products. I’m also attending an event hosted by the NHS, which I call a “wedding fayre of stoma stands.” The first time I attended, it felt like Christmas with so many products on offer, and it was a great way to see what was available to make life with a stoma easier.
One of my favourite memories of World Ostomy Day was when I visited Nottingham and met other ostomates, including a strong woman named Gillian Castle. We both share the same passion for raising awareness about living with a stoma, and even though that event was a while ago, we have since become good friends speaking regularly. Meeting others who have walked the same path as you gives you hope, strength, and a sense of belonging.
World Ostomy Day reminds us that we are seen, heard, and part of a supportive community. Whether you’re an ostomate or just someone wanting to learn more, this day is about understanding, raising awareness, and celebrating life after surgery. Because with a stoma, life is not over — it’s just the beginning of something new!
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