Posts by Michelyn Caldwell
Embracing Life’s Second Chance: A Guide to Thriving with an Ostomy
Life can sometimes take unexpected turns, presenting us with challenges we never imagined we’d face. One such challenge is living with an ostomy. While it may feel like the end of the world when you first hear those words from your doctor, it’s essential to remember that an ostomy is not the end; it’s a…
Read MoreBernie’s Story
Hi, my name is Bernadette, I am 73 years old. I have had an ileostomy for about 8 years. If you have had an ileostomy or colostomy, it is an adjustment…it gets easier and your life will be ok. I swim, I travel, I work in my garden, I do everything I always did…..one exception…
Read MoreManaging Day-to-Day Life after Ileostomy or Colostomy Surgery
Undergoing ileostomy or colostomy surgery can significantly impact an individual’s day-to-day life. Adapting to the changes and learning new techniques for managing the stoma and ostomy bag can make a significant difference in comfort and confidence. In this article, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help individuals effectively manage their daily routine after…
Read MoreRichard’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…
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