Marc’s Story

I’ve always been an adventurous guy. Hiking and exploring the outdoors was my passion, but when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in my early 40s, everything changed. My condition worsened, and eventually, my doctors said ostomy surgery was my only option.

I was terrified—not of the surgery itself, but of what life would be like afterward. Would I still be able to hike? How would I adjust to having a stoma?

The recovery was tough, and learning to care for my ostomy felt overwhelming at first. But with support from my family and products like Na’Scent, I regained my confidence. I remember my first hike after surgery—it was only a mile, but it felt like a victory. Each step reminded me that I was still capable.

Now, five years later, I’ve hiked the Appalachian Trail and continue exploring the outdoors. My ostomy hasn’t held me back; it’s given me a second chance at life. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that an ostomy doesn’t define you—it just becomes part of your story, and it makes you stronger.