It’s not every day you can say you have walked in Paris Fashion Week with your stoma bag on show!
Where do I start? What an unreal experience. I still cannot believe I did something like this. It feels so surreal and I loved every minute!
Preparing to walk in Paris Fashion Week with my stoma bag
So before I get into the actual experience of walking in Paris Fashion Week, I had all my usual prep to get there, with packing supplies and making sure I had everything I needed with me. It was warm in Paris and I ended up with my skin slightly aggravated, as I sweated due to a lot of walking around the city. I had to take extra electrolytes to stay on top of dehydration, but apart from that, the day itself was amazing.
I was worried about changing into the bag I wore on the day of the fashion show. It wasn’t a bag I normally wear and as the bag was hand-painted specially to go with my outfit; I had to get it right the first time I put it on. This made me a bit nervous but thankfully I managed to get it on with no mishaps. Once I had it on and was dressed in my outfit, the nerves settled, especially as I was still able to wear my seal under the bag. This helped with my confidence a lot.
We then got our makeup and hair done with all the hustle and bustle that comes with it. It was such a crazy experience backstage, especially compared to the calm when walking out on stage. After hair and makeup, we practiced the walk. This was incredibly nerve-wracking, to be honest. We were shown where to stop and where to pose and that’s where I noticed that there were lots of lights and cameras.
Although my stoma bag was out, I didn’t feel uncomfortable. It actually felt normal and empowering, believe it or not! I walked around with my stoma out, matching my outfit. I have to say, I loved it!
Walking the runway
Then it was time for the show to start: we walked first. I can only describe this as so empowering! I felt so confident and I loved every minute! I was absolutely buzzing with myself afterwards.
I felt so privileged and proud that, as an ostomate, I could walk in Paris Fashion Week. It felt like a breakthrough and it was amazing!
Never in a million years did I think this was something I would ever see or do. My stoma has brought some of my worst days but, in return, it has brought some of my best and for that I am forever grateful.
