Posts by Michelyn Caldwell
Richard’s Story
I came home from work one evening & like every other day, made myself & my wife some tea. After tea, I settled down with my wife & dog for a normal evening. Little did I know that this would be my last “normal” evening for a long time. Shortly after dinner, I started to…
Read MoreEmbracing Life with an Ostomy: A Guide to Acceptance
Embracing the Truth Facing the reality of living with an ostomy, whether present or upcoming, requires acknowledging an essential truth. Ostomies are intended to save lives or improve quality of life. Once we embrace this truth, we have choices to make: Option of Negativity: We can choose to be resentful, angry, embarrassed, ashamed, overwhelmed, and…
Read MoreDavid’s Story
Suffered from Ulcerative colitis from age 18 months till I was 18. Been an ostomate for 48 years. Past National President of the United Ostomy Association of America. Passionate about breaking the stigma regarding ostomy surgery. I use the mantra I learned years ago in that “the ostomy is what you have, it is NOT…
Read MoreDamien’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 MoreKatherine’s Story
I have had a urostomy for 47 years since the age of 12. Odor has been a problem the entire time. Your product is the first product I have found that works on my stinky urine output. I am a 22 year dialysis patient, too and have marked decrease in urine output. It has affected…
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 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,…
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