I have had Homer the stoma for the last thirteen years and I truly believe that my positive mindset has not only helped me, but also my friends and family. My stoma enables me to go about everyday life with increased confidence and to live well. In this month’s blog, I am going to share how my life has improved 100% since my stoma surgery and I celebrate that every single day.
Having good health means everything to me; eating and drinking what I like, within reason, without the fear of excruciating pain and the very real possibility of having toilet ‘accidents’. I am so lucky to be able to enjoy many different types of food once again – particularly a good curry – and I am regularly able to put my baking skills to good use as you can see on my social media. I used to work in bakeries in Swansea when I left school; baking is something I love to do in my spare time and it’s amazing to be able to to turn a few simple ingredients into something delicious.
I have also been documenting my new found love of running over the last few months. Being physically fit is as important for health as is a sensible and nutritious diet. I have unfortunately developed type 2 diabetes so exercise alongside dietary changes and medication help me to control it. I played a lot of football in my younger years and I have always missed that aspect of my life, now I am running 5km at least twice a week and have actually completed my first Parkrun.
Mental health is something that has featured a lot in the news lately. When I was ill with ulcerative colitis, I probably reached the lowest of the low regarding my mental health. My whole personality changed and I often didn’t want to speak to anyone or be in anyone else’s company. I was thoroughly miserable and felt very depressed. I was in constant pain and had to go to A&E on many occasions out of sheer desperation. It was not a good way to live. I know now that feeling so miserable made it so much harder to cope.
Having my stoma allows me to socialise with confidence. This is another example of how the confidence my stoma gives me has improved my mental health. Going out with friends and family was not possible for me before my surgery; I was constantly having to rush to the toilet, was in a bad mood and even taking Imodium wasn’t helping by the end. Now my stoma gives me control and I am able to go to restaurants, concerts and other events positively having reclaimed my life!
Of course I have also been able to return to work full-time which has given me the financial security that was patchy during my illness. That had a knock-on effect on my mental health too as I was worrying about paying bills etc. Luckily that is now a thing of the past.
My top tips for positivity with a stoma:
- Focus on the pros rather than the cons: think about what you’re able to do now as opposed to the restrictions you experienced before.
- Having a stoma can lead to a more fulfilling life with new experiences: maybe you could try a new hobby or pastime that you’ve not been able to consider before.
- Enjoy the security that regaining your health can bring: as long as you’re prepared (i.e. having stoma supplies with you), get out and about, visit exciting places and make the most of the freedom your stoma gives you rather than dwell on any restrictions.
- Reach out for support: read blogs, listen to podcasts, talk to other ostomates. There is a comprehensive network of fellow ostomates out there that will listen and share experiences with you. Why not try the ‘Beyond the Pouch’ podcast produced by Eakin Healthcare? Have a look for episodes on YouTube.
I am a naturally positive person, I know that. But whenever I feel a bit fed up, I always try to look at the bigger picture and realise that I have been given the chance to get back to living a full and active life and I aim to make the most of it!
