Posts by Michelyn Caldwell
Dennis’s Story
My doctor told me that I would have reversal surgery and iliostomy would come off in a few years. It’s been 42 years and I still have it. Because of inflammation and colitis flare ups I was never able to get reversed. Most of the time I forget I have it. It’s become part of…
Read MoreCan You Make Pregnancy Work with an Ostomy?
One of the most important things is your life is getting pregnant. It is considered to be extremely memorable. You might have heard of the usual pregnancy stories about the importance of care. Having an ostomy could leave you worried about your fate. However, there is no need to stress as having an ostomy is…
Read MoreBrendan’s Story
In December 2012, I had major cancer surgery for colorectal cancer. I was given a temporary ileostomy for a 4 month period. In April this was removed and I was placed back in so-called normal bowel operational mode and the pouch removed. It was then my real nightmare began. I was very fortunate that I…
Read MoreKeeping Hydrated with an Ostomy
Dehydration can take a toll on your health, especially if you have an ostomy. Maintaining adequate hydration is necessary. Although it can be difficult to keep up with your fluid intake requirements, there are many ways through which you can remain hydrated. This post shares some of the top tips that will help you remain…
Read MoreTraveling with an Ostomy
Traveling with a stoma might seem difficult. If you want to make sure that it does not prevent you from traveling, you have come to the right place. This post aims to provide you with all the information you need to enjoy your travels. With just a bit of planning, you will get to benefit…
Read MoreDonna’s Story
I was a happy healthy 35 year old when I was admitted to hospital with bloody diarrhea. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and when steroids failed I was given an emergency total colectomy. Months in hospital with extreme weight loss and sepsis and a further 2 surgeries and long hospital stays over the space…
Read MoreThe emotional side of an ostomy
There are many reasons for getting an ostomy. Some people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis will opt for the surgery at the recommendation of their doctor, while others essentially have no choice because of cancer or another life-threatening illness. Since an ostomy requires consistently wearing a pouch or bag on the body that collects…
Read MoreAva’s Story
After suffering from Crohn’s Disease for 15 years, I had to have a complete colon and rectum removal in order to both save my life, and restore quality to my life. A fellow ostomate shared her thoughts about Na’Scent, and after one use I knew it was something I couldn’t be without. I’ve tried other…
Read MoreTop 5 Tips to Avoid Ostomy Odor
When it comes to ostomy, there are certain changes that you need to make to your lifestyle. Although you do not have to change your diet for good, the food and beverages that you consume have a direction impact on your ostomy. Ostomy odor can be difficult to manage, especially when out in public. Most…
Read MoreLori’s Story
Hi! I’m Lori. I’ve had a jejunostomy for one year now, and I really struggled with finding the right appliance. I cried many tears, but I’m finally getting a handle on it after realizing I needed a convex system. I lost over 200 pounds and I deal with the pain of an hereditary neuromuscular disease…
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