Posts by Michelyn Caldwell
Damien’s Story
Hello, My journey happen to start in 2006 with severe abdominal cramping and pain. The doctors first thought it was appendicitis before running so many different tests to find out the problem was Crohn’s disease. Honestly at that time, I was 23 and I had never heard about such a thing and never gave it…
Read MoreTips for a Good Night’s Sleep with a Stoma Bag
Getting a good night’s sleep is important for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for individuals with a stoma bag. The presence of a stoma bag can lead to discomfort, anxiety, and other issues that can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep. This can have a negative impact on physical health, emotional…
Read MoreRebecca’s Story
I was first diagnosed with colon cancer in 1997. My Gastroenterologist (oncologist) stated I needed emergency surgery. He stated that I would probably be going home with a bag. At that time, they had you admitted for surgery the night before so you would know what the bags looked like and they had me put…
Read MoreTips for Maintaining Ostomy Skin Health and Preventing Odors
Ostomy surgery can be a life-saving procedure for many people, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common issues that ostomy patients face is odor, which can be both embarrassing and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain good ostomy skin health and prevent odors…
Read MoreStaci’s Story
I started having GI symptoms right before Covid turned our world upside down. I was losing weight, food went right through me, and I usually had a short 10-15 min window after eating to find a bathroom quick!!! I was a busy wife, mom, and small business owner so I didn’t have time for this.…
Read MoreKate’s Story
Hi there, My name is Kate and I live in Australia with my husband and our daughter. I’ve had a permanent ileostomy for 5 years now and my life is a far cry from what it was back then. You see, I’d spent the majority of my adult life, trying medications, treatments, and medical trials…
Read MorePhysical Activities with an Ostomy
Do you enjoy playing golf or tennis? Do you believe there is nothing better than swimming, yoga, or running? I love that! Staying active should not be impeded by having an ostomy. You can resume most sports and activities you loved before surgery with the approval of your healthcare provider. Only contact sports, like boxing,…
Read MoreOstomy Care for Your Child based on Developmental Age
There are a few important things a parent must be aware of when a child has a medical condition that necessitates an ostomy bag. Ostomy care can be difficult for young children, on top of the sleepless nights and nonstop feedings you are likely experiencing. Fortunately, Beaumont Health has expanded the Beaumont Ostomy Clinic to…
Read MoreTips and Tricks for Holiday Eating With an Ostomy
The holidays are a delicious time of year, but for people with an ostomy, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to eating and drinking. Certain foods and drinks may not suit everyone, so checking with your doctor or ostomy nurse before indulging is vital. With a little planning, you can…
Read MoreLakecia’s Story
I was diagnosed with anal cancer on 2/17/2021. I went through chemotherapy and weeks of radiation. At the time, It was the hardest thing I had ever been through. After weeks of treatment, the tumor was still there, so I had to have surgery to remove the cancer. On 1/27/22 I had Abdominal Perineal Resection…
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