In this episode, I’m sharing some real-life experiences and lessons learned that I think so many ostomates will connect with.

First, I talk about my recent travel through airport security in Italy — and the unexpected moment when a security guard didn’t understand what my ostomy pouch was. That experience reminded me how important it is to find ways to communicate across language barriers so we can advocate for ourselves with confidence.

I also dive into the importance of pelvic floor therapy for ostomates. Since many of us no longer use certain muscles the same way, therapy can make a huge difference for things like bladder health, painful intercourse, and overall quality of life. I share a bit about my own journey, including how my therapist is helping me with adhesions — and why it’s always essential to check with your doctor first before starting something new.

Finally, I highlight Hollister’s upgraded pouches and the improvements they’ve made to support comfort and confidence in daily life.

✨ Whether you’re traveling, navigating health challenges, or exploring new products, I hope this episode encourages you and reminds you that you’re not alone.

In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden speaks with Sandra Mannon about her journey with scleroderma and the decision to undergo an ileostomy. Sandra shares her experiences as a trauma nurse and the challenges she faced after being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. The conversation delves into the complexities of her medical journey, the emotional impact of transitioning to life with an ostomy, and the importance of patient advocacy. Sandra reflects on her past year of healing and adaptation, highlighting the resilience required to navigate her health challenges. In this conversation, the speaker shares her personal journey of overcoming the challenges of living with an ostomy due to scleroderma. She discusses the emotional and physical struggles she faced, including feelings of defeat and despair, and how she found healing through mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga. The speaker emphasizes the importance of acceptance and positivity in redefining her identity and living life fully despite her condition. She also shares practical tips for managing life with an ostomy and encourages others to embrace their strength and resilience.

Takeaways

• Sandra's journey with scleroderma began after a meningitis infection.
• She faced multiple health challenges, including bowel obstructions and reflux.
• The decision for an ileostomy was a significant turning point in her life.
• Sandra emphasizes the importance of being your own health advocate.
• Her experience highlights the complexities of managing a rare autoimmune disease.
• Post-surgery, she encountered unexpected complications, including infections and prolapses.
• The emotional impact of transitioning to life with an ostomy was profound for her.
• Sandra's medical background provided her with knowledge but also created challenges in accepting her situation.
• She learned to navigate her health challenges with resilience and determination.
• The past year has been a journey of healing and adaptation. I was just exhausted.
• I wanted to die.
• I truly, truly believe that I had a healing there.
• Life is now good.
• I eat by gravity.
• I want to live my life.
• It's just so easy.
• The mind is so powerful.
• This ostomy is not the end of our life.
• Let this show how strong that you are.

Summary

In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by Kimberly Coleman and Jessica Miles to discuss their personal journeys as ostomates, their experiences with Hollister products, and the importance of skin health and advocacy in the ostomy community. They share insights on choosing the right products, the significance of skin care, and the need for support and education for those living with ostomies.

Takeaways

• Kimberly is a stage two colorectal cancer survivor diagnosed at 47.
• Jessica has a genetic collagen disorder leading to her ostomy.
• Choosing the right ostomy products is crucial for comfort and care.
• Skin health is a major concern for ostomates.
• Hollister products have been beneficial for both Kimberly and Jessica.
• Advocacy and education are essential for ostomates.
• Different ostomy products serve different needs at different times.
• Support services like Secure Start can help ostomates navigate their care.
• Active lifestyles can be maintained with the right ostomy products.
• Community support is vital for those living with ostomies.