Life is busy, very very busy – you chuck a stoma into the mix and it can feel like you can’t catch your tail! Not to mention, in Wales, prescriptions are still sent by pigeon post! I can’t keep count of the amount of times my prescriptions have been lost. Leaving me in a complete pickle!
It is really important to me that my stoma does not control my life – it simply has to fit in. Joining Respond just made sense.
Why did I decide to join respond?
I think it is a common misconception for a lot of ostomates, that the brand of your stoma bag is the company from which you need to have them supplied from. But I have recently learned that this is not the case! After a lovely dinner with my good friend Summer (@summers_stoma) she explained that I could still get my preferred bag through Respond. I wear Coloplast Sensura Mio Bags, which are now ordered, cut to size and delivered through Respond. This was music to my ears, because last year I was send Responds 3-in-1 refresh spray to try, and I couldn’t believe the difference it made to my sore, itchy skin. I could finally now have this product as part of my monthly deliveries! Wooohooo! It was also a no brainer, as Respond’s warehouse is based in Cardiff, specifically a 4 minute drive from my house, cutting down on the delivery time and miles. Benefiting both me & the planet – win win!
What was the sign-up process like?
I honestly couldn’t believe how easy the sign up process was. I originally thought that it would be a massive faff – back and forth phone calls with my GP to make sure my prescription was correct. But Respond sorted it ALL. After a few days I was contacted to place & schedule my first delivery, which consisted of all the products that I felt best fit my needs.
First impressions & what surprised me
I have finally got to the stage in my recovery where my stoma doesn’t rule my life. I’m not worrying about it every second of everyday. However, this sometimes means that I can overlook my stoma supplies – leaving me short. I was overjoyed when I heard that Respond provided a ‘Click and Deliver’ service. A service that delivers a reminder text message each month, with a link to help you order what you need. I loved this as it offered me a little reminder and quick & simple process to order my supplies – something that I really appreciate with a busy lifestyle!
What I’d tell someone thinking about joining
Don’t think! DO! Joining Respond was one of the best stoma decisions I have made! Not only do I feel confident that I will never be left without supplies, but I feel connected and welcomed within a community! Their websites and social media platforms offer so much support and guidance. Not to mention that their ambassadors are amazing (if I do say so myself). Guiding your way through stoma surgery can be difficult, but its made so much easier with a reliable service and the support of others!
Here’s to my future with Respond!
Love,
Poppy Xxx
