Reasons I’m grateful for my stoma
Reasons I’m grateful for my stoma
Living with a stoma certainly has its moments and can be difficult at times, but I can honestly say hand on heart that I wouldn’t change any of it. I am so grateful for my stoma, and I wanted to tell you all why.
- Freedom from UC Symptoms
For two years, Ulcerative Colitis (UC) dictated my life. Flare-ups meant 30+ trips to the toilet each day. I lost loads of weight and was restricted by the need to always be near a toilet. I was in and out of hospital all the time, constantly trialling new medications and treatments. Now, fast forward to life with my stoma: I choose when and how often I empty my bag. I have been officially discharged from the hospital and I’m free to live my life as I please.
- Embracing Community
When I had UC, I was totally unaware of the community out there. After my stoma surgery, I discovered a network of individuals sharing their real-life stories and positivity. This community has been a lifeline, leading to actual meaningful friendships, opportunities to attend industry events, and even getting to go to The Get Together hosted by supportive organisations like Pelican & Respond. Since becoming an ambassador, I have had the chance to share my story too and help others going through similar experiences.
- Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigmas
When researching life with a stoma pre-surgery all the stories online were centred around elderly individuals. I was already being told I was “too young to have a stoma”, so it made it really difficult to prepare myself for such a life changing operation. This is why I was so determined to raise awareness that stomas affect people of all ages. So, others in a similar position to mine would know they weren’t alone.
Living with a stoma has reshaped my appreciation for my life and given me a fresh perspective. I think without my stoma I may be a different person entirely. Certainly, there are challenges, nothing in life is ever easy. But for me it’s a chapter in my life that has filled the rest with health, positivity, and gratitude.
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