I had my colostomy a month ago. I felt compelled to let you know as soon as possible that I am so grateful for your videos. So very grateful. Thank you so much .
I don't know how I stumbled on this video. I had an emergency colostomy five years ago. I suppose the surgeon saved my life, but he didn't do a very good surgery. The stoma was flat and didn't actually enter the bag through the barrier rings which made the bag a problem. I had very little support for how to wear the bag and options for clothing which really left me in the dark about the whole thing. I am not the squeamish type and taking care of the ostomy was not a big deal to me, but it was annoying at times. I wore the bag for a year before the colostomy was successfully reversed. This video was WONDERFUL. I wish I had known about this soon after having my colostomy. It would have made getting dressed and options for wearing the bag so much easier. The information this video contains is extremely helpful. THANK YOU. I know it will be very helpful for people who need this information.
I'm so glad, grateful, to have found this video. You've relieved a great deal of my anxiety as I prepare to return to work next week for the first time after my colostomy surgery
This is a great informational video you have here. Thank you so much for thinking of us. I am still amazed just how many of us we actually are. I totally concur, the prep bag of emergency supplies and a spare change of clothes is a lifesaver. I have one in the back of the car,. I have only used mine once in the three years of my colostomy, but the three years of not having the worry of the what-ifs is well worth it. Just don't forget to rotate your supplies and keep them fresh and up to date.
Just watched quite a few videos on your tips for men! In my group the men were complaining about not being able to dress properly for work, in different jobs. Now I am not very good at the computer yet(my son teaches me, when I can catch him)! So I do not know yet how to put up the links from your videos to the group, witch is very frustrating, so I go back and try to type in exactly what the name of the video is for them to look up on youtube. And hope that they can find your fantastic videos! Thanks again, I find your videos to be the most helpful ones that I watch. You are helping a lot of ppl. out there that years ago, didn't have this great way of actually seeing how others cope and get on with there lives, living with an Ostomy! I have had my Ileostomy next summer, 30 years, and back then, there was nothing! I am so surprized myself that I have found a wealth of info on youtube, of Ostomates, like yourself, who give their time unselfishly, to help others, like myself......Chia.
Hi. I am also facing laparoscopic ostomy surgery in a week. Could you tell me what the pain level was like after surgery and the recovery for the first few weeks? I’m pretty nervous about the whole thing. Thanks
@@Alundrahs The first few days was pretty painful, but only when trying to activate your stomach muscles, sitting up etc. Sitting, lying still is just fine. Sleeping was OK, but rolling over hurt. I was offered plenty of pain relief. I was up and out of bed the next day. So it's really only the first few days, not a few weeks, that you will be sore. My surgery also in involved a lot more than just the ostomy, so the ostomy part didn't seem so bad. You'll be just fine. Good luck.
Hello, and I hope this finds you well. I can't thank you enough for posting this, and other helpful ostomy videos. My husband had a successful ileostomy just yesterday, and for the past two weeks I've been scrambling to research products and garments to improve his quality of life. I worried I'd either be getting unnecessary items or the wrong products for his stoma. Your videos give me great comfort in this unfamiliar territory, but more importantly, peace of mind that my husband will be ok. We're starting this journey Hollister products, and I glimpsed a review you posted on 1 and 2 pieces ostomy bags from their company, so I'll take a look at that video as well. Thank you again for sharing your experiences with ostomy supplies and garments, I am overwhelming grateful.
Hello Eric, thank you so much for getting back to me so promptly. I see that the vast majority of people I’ve watched on RUclips suffer from Chromes Disease and require the stoma/ostomy whereas mine is due to both the paralysis, precancerous growths & serious incontinence problems. I will keep searching for someone who has had the stoma done due to paralysis and be able to return to my work in the Civil Service here in Ireland.. Thank you for getting back to me so quickly. Many thanks, MarkC
Video is very comprehensive. Have had my ostomy since 2014 so have considered all of what you suggested. Have gone with loose shirts and wearing my pouch outside my pants. When dressing up had to get pants TWO sizes bigger than what I usually wear and have opted for suspenders instead of belts. Thanks for the video and have subscribed.
As a new ostomate, I am very concerned about clothing options especially since my stoma is a bit high (just above umbilicus) your video was very helpful and reassuring. Thanks Cliff
Hi, mine is also quite high which make it actually easier to wear pants with elastic fittings and do not pull up your pants so much. Which also works for me is the overalls with the crossed straps across your shoulder(high in fashion)!! Because there is no belt on an overall the pouch is hanging free with absolutely no problems. You can also wear the most fadhionable T-shirts with it - just make sure it is a body fit and you will be the guy in town. Good luck with your new outfit, I am 9 months on mine now and never had so many compliments!!!!
Thanks so much for those helpful tips. I am a new ostomate and your video showed me that there are a lot of products that can make me feel more comfortable about my ostomy. Thanks so much!!!
Thank you for this vid. My husband and I had our ostomy on our 14th wedding anniversary, 9/26/15 and it has been a little difficult for him. He's lost a lot of weight since the vid and just doesn't want to wear clothes. I bought him a few pair of sweats and when we go out, that is what he wears. I watch a lot of vids and this is the best one I seen and will encourage him to watch it with me next time. Very good tips and I thank you for them. Subbed.
I have my ostomy bag now for a year and did some practical research for type of clothing this past year. I am from South Africa and in agriculture and luckily here in our country all men on farms wear short trousers in summer. It is better to wear short trousers which make use of elasticated material around your waist. I also like to wear what we call "boiler suits" - overalls with straps around your shoulders, also called dungerees. Very comfortable and high in fashion. You can wear them with T-shirts, short and/or long sleeve shirts as well as a jacket if needed. Ordinary overalls (one piece) are nice for winter. To dress more smart you can use any smart trousers but buy them one to two sizes bigger and then wear suspenders with them. You can wear suspenders under or above your shirt - depending if you wear your shirt over your trousers or not. Clothing is no longer a problem for me and I can dress from very casual to very formal!! Enjoy - we have a good reason to try different clothing and then make the stoma the culprit😂😂
Thank you! This is very useful information for my husband. BTW, I would add that also shopping for T-shirts and shirts in Tall sizes is very helpful to conceal the pouch since they’re longer and you’ll have less issues with them riding up when you raise your arms and such. :)
Thanks so much for the great info. I have had my colostomy for 3 years and all I have worn since has been athletic pants. So comfortable but I would love to wear a pair of jeans or more dressy pants once in a while. You have given me ideas that I can definitely work with. I really appreciate it.
Hi I have had mine about 20 months due to diverticulitis and a sigmoid restriction,no cancer mainly caused by to much codeine due to painful knees.greats tips and I also wore sports pants with elasticated waist The are comfy but always slipping down as under my bag is just a little low,so hard work as very conscious about the bag If I could wear it under jeans it would be great Looking for high underwear or an elasticated wrap. Maybe not a belt fancy neat braces with a patterned shirt 50 % of the issues are in your head It gets easier to predict flow into the bag after a year or more,I tend to manage my journeys and alway way up the public toilet locations I have travelled to the Far East from the Uk and just managed my meals and had an isle seat at the back near the loo Planning all worked out and packed 2 drainable bags for each day of 21 Everything is possible if you get your head around your new situation,I even had Thai massage and the ladies just worked around it without any judgement or attitude which builds your confidence.
Thank you for this video. I going to have surgery the 16th of this month. I've been so worried about everything living with this. Your video has help me what I can use to feel comfortable going out in public. I've been so worried thank you for your video.
Really great video. I'm 11 days away from a surgery to remove my bladder and I'm not getting a New-Bladder. These videos are extremely helpfull. Thanks for sharing this.
I fully agree - especially the ones with the cross straps over your shoulder - then you are also high in the newest fashion and will get many good comments!!!
I love my Chefs trousers no belt just a cord that's easily adjustable soft material but still look professional in black. If you find sweat pants the more comfortable option grab yourself some chefs trousers so you can look smart but still feel comfortable.
Thank you my hubby is 6 months on and we didn't know about stoma guards when he returns to work. Just waiting for all clear from cancer and normal service resumes x
Thank you very much, this video has been very helpful to me, I just had an ileostomy surgery 4 months ago. also I like the shirt on your website " no colon still rollin" its very encouraging.
I empathize my friend! I have had a reversible one that has now become permanent for three years now. You will adapt and get used to it. It will eventually just become an extension of your person as to where you really do not even notice it. My biggest concern was the fear of public "accidents" if you will. Believe me, the bags are not no where as delicate as you initially think they are.Life is full of wammys and accidents still do occur from time to time. It is just part of life. I keep a emergency kit with me floating in the back of the car that includes a change of pants and emergency bag changes. I have only used it once in three years. Best of luck my friend!
Thank you so much for this informative video. My partner is due RC surgery in the next few days and is worried sick about people seeing his stoma and bag but after watching this i don't think he has anything to worry about !
Best to your partner! The person who has the ostomy tends to make it more of a big deal than those around them :) Once your parter gets used to it and comfortable with it, there shouldn't be any cause for concern.
Many thanks for your'e reply. He's more worried about the bag leaking. We have heard it may take a while until he gets the right bag ? The stoma nurse so far has not been that helpful either. Both of us is totally dreading it due to the unknown !
Some people find a bag that works from the start and others need to experiment a little. Eventually, you find something that works and run with it for a very long time.
How well do the stoma guards stay in place during exercise/movement? And, thank you for being one of the few, and better, sources for us ostomates! I'm slowly adapting to my colostomy following colorectal cancer, and assuming I beat the five year survival odds, I'd like to be able to rough house with my toddlers and participate in sports. Thanks again!
Hey Banzai4554 , thanks for your comment! I don't play sports, but I've done a lot of work around the house that required bending, twisting and moving in awkward positions (thanks to several faucets I've had to replace!), as well as hiking, and the guards stay on very securely. I don't see them being a problem to wear during sports, provided you keep your pouch empty. Bending might be the only challenge (depending on a few factors), but there are many ostomates who play sports with a guard, and they seem to cope pretty well with it. I wish you the best of health!
I've had a colostomy for about 10 years now and i didn't know that some of these thing existed. Keep in mind i'm 17 and in high school. I'm going to get some of these things
Great video and so informative. My husband has an ostomy. He has a round figure if you know what I mean, clothing is definitely an issue for him. He tends to wear suspenders but I will definitely get him a size larger in pants/jeans. I think that will make a difference. Also I have searched for jeans/pants with an elastic waist, no luck, any suggestions? Thanks, the video was most helpful.
Elastic wasted dress pants should be easy to find. Stretchy jeans, not so much, but you could have his favorite pair adjusted by a seamstress. One company that I can recommend is www.iamdenim.co.uk/ They make jeans specifically for ostomates. I'll have a product review at one point, but they are well made and feel great.
If you are referring to the StomaShield, you can purchase them on the official website: www.stomagear.com/ The style they sell now is a newer version than what's in this video. It's better in a lot ways!
Hi Jimmy, I put a link in the description, but if you can't see it there it's: www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/ Unfortunately, most medical suppliers won't carry clothing accessories (Not sure what Sheild carries) and you may have to buy directly from the manufacturer in some cases. Fortunately, because you are in the US, it shouldn't be a problem finding these companies who can ship to you at a reasonable price.
You're likely referring to the Stoma Shield, which can be ordered through the manufacturer's website: www.stomagear.com/ Note: they have a newer style from the one in this video which is refined and quite a bit nicer!
Hi John, there are quite a few stoma guards available on the market. The ones you see on the video are by StomaGear and Ostomy Resolutions. I have reviews on both products on this page : www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews#Stoma_Guards At the bottom of each review you can find links to each manufacturer. I don't get paid for the reviews, nor do I receive any commission from the sale of those guards, but I would appreciate if you can let either company know that you heard about their product through me if you decide to buy one. Let me know if you have any other questions. Eric
Thank you, my bladder just removed and now m going to buy stoma gear can you please share while wearing stoma guard how often you need to empty and any tip while I am out for couple of hours to handle it
Sounds like you have a urostomy, which will be different from my ileostomy in the frequency and type of output. You'll likely find that your bag fills consistently throughout the day, but it will also depend on how much you are drinking, your activity level, and so on. For me, if I don't eat, I don't have bowel movements. But during the regular course of the day (three meals + snacks), I'm emptying my bag maybe 10 times a day. Being out for a couple of hours shouldn't be too much of a challenge, but at least in the first several months, try to be closer to bathrooms until you learn your patterns. Best of luck!
Hi Mate, Thank you so much for the great information. I have question if you do any heavy lifting job does it effect your ability to finish the work since you stoma bag? Kind regards
My work doesn't require heavy lifting but I've had to do quite a bit of heavy lifting since my surgery. I would advise to be very cautious for at least the first few years and only do gentle workouts to build your abdominal muscles up. Lifting before your body is fully healed (and even after) can result in a prolapse stoma or hernia. Best of luck!
It's not likely that I'll have a video guide for women without doing some major collaboration, but I do have a multipart written guide that should be very helpful : www.veganostomy.ca/dressing-with-an-ostomy-clothing-for-women/
Hi. Great video my friend. I want to ask where can I buy acessories like belt which i saw from 4:30 to 5:00 minute of film and from 7:57 to 8:00 minute? Thanks for help.
Hey Michal, thank you. I've reviewed both of the dtoma guards that you're asking about. For the reviews and info on where you can purchase them, check out these links: www.veganostomy.ca/2014/10/stomashield-stoma-guard-inc-review.html www.veganostomy.ca/2014/06/ostomy-resolutions-stoma-guard-review.html Have a great day! Eric
great video man,, 1 thing to ask tho,, i had my surgery this time last week,, and im just wondering,, my stoma at the moment is hard as a rock,, in time, will it go abit softer than now,, im sure its just hard cos its swollen, but i just had 2 ask,, thank you,,
andrew barrington You might want to ask your ET nurse or surgeon on your next follow up. It's common for your stoma to be swollen after surgery for several weeks to over a month, but I don't recall mine being HARD - just big! Hope you're surgery went well.
+Vasu Sreenu There are several available, and I've reviewed them here: www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews#Stoma_Guards You'll want to contact each manufacturer directly to see who can ship to India. Good luck.
Depending on where you live, you can order and receive stoma guards just about anywhere. If you go to the bottom of each of my specific stoma guard reviews, you'll see non-affiliate links to the manufacturer : www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews/#Stoma_Guards
I always found the wearing my appliance in the horizontal position using a StealthBelt worked best when I needed to wear a suit or dress clothes. There are other solutions if your appliance doesn't fill up often or quickly, but they involve wearing your appliance under your pants (behind the waistband), and I don't find that comfortable, personally.
@@Ladysmyth Let me know which belt you were looking at in particular, and I'll see if they are shipped/sold within Canada. I'm near Toronto and all of these products shipped to me without issues.
Personal preference. If your bag fills up quickly, then it may be easier to wear it over your pants. With a colostomy, it should be easier to wear it under your pants, provided that it's comfortable and doesn't put too much pressure on your appliance or stoma. I have an ileostomy and my bag often fills throughout the day, so for me, out works best.
My ostomy is low I like to wear my pants over my hips and my ostomy bag is a one piece that goes below where my belt would go and my bag gets crumbled up because my underwear and pants comes up over the bottom of the wafer so I wear my pants lower below my hip and my pants are always falling down
That's a challenging situation. Whenever I put the bag under my pants, it always ends up being uncomfortable. I have seen clothing, even regular pants that have been modified by a seamstress, that would give some flex in the material where the bag sits. This could be an option worth looking into.
thanks for reply..my bag filter works one day only after that whenever gas release the bag will become balloon..in office very hard to remove air in my bag after every 10 mints..
+Vasu Sreenu Have you seen this video about ballooning? ruclips.net/video/vpkkGNKBo60/видео.html You can also view more suggestions in the article linked to that video.
Any tips for a transgender guy that has his ostomy high up and still has wide female hips? Tried pulling pants over the bag and I think I put Steve Urkel to shame with the height; plus the wedgie was painful. Then I tried putting the waistband bellow the ostomy and if it is elastic it just slips bellow my belly and pitches painfully while staying above my hips on the sides and back.
Hey Amber. I'm curious to know if you've tried any accessories or stoma guards with your clothing. I'm a fan of wearing my bag sideways as it tends to get it out of the way of my belt line, but this does depend on the placement of your stoma. If your actual stoma is above your belt like, then this may be ideal. Feel free to post the question on my support forum www.veganostomy.ca/community/ as I'm sure you'll get more suggestions from both our male and female members. Best of luck!
+Batmanisawesomesoami This one works well, but there's a newer style available (review coming) and you have to get the size that works for you (the company can help find the right one) ruclips.net/video/X4GFLZ-l-Sk/видео.html
While that may be true, I would NOT take that risk. We have accessories to make seatbelts comfortable for ostomates, so I see no reason to avoid wearing them.
My biggest problem is, my favourite beach in the whole world is a clothing optional beach right here in Toronto, on the Toronto Islands, which are a group of several dozen small islands in Toronto harbour. I know it’s not for everybody, but as soon as I got over my shyness, I begin to enjoy the feeling of absolute freedom, and despite what people think or say, it has absolutely nothing to do with sex or sexuality, it’s just a wonderful way to enjoy nature at the beach, but now with the bag, I absolutely refuse to go because there’s no hiding it, and people can be pretty damn rude! I’ve always been a pretty strong man, and I’ve always had a really good body, I still have a good body, although I’m 50 now, I only went to the beach once shortly after I got my first ileostomy, and I will never go again because I will end up being arrested for knocking out every single jack ass that decided to make a crude and rude comment. It’s easy to say just be comfortable in your own skin, but it’s another thing to have literally hundreds of people pointing at you, giving you dirty looks, and asking you the most crude and stupid questions you can possibly imagine. My story is very long and complicated, but in total, over the past 30 years I’ve had 37 surgeries, which included seven different ileostomies, 2 k pouches and a j pouch, and after going through all that the last thing I need is a bunch of idiots driving me absolutely crazy, they completely ruin my time at a place that I used to love to go to. I can’t conceal because my stoma is just above my belt line, so I can’t even wear a bathing suit. It’s incredibly frustrating, but I already have enough problems in my life without having to face being arrested, for kicking the living snot out of some jack ass who desperately deserves it! I have no problem with people asking me polite questions, I’m all too happy to answer those questions, but when people start making rude remarks to a total stranger, I cannot remain silent, my conscience will not allow me to, I came close many times, to knocking some jack ass out cold after they’ve called me a freak, or even worse. It’s been so frustrating and maddening that through no fault of my own I can no longer enjoy the one thing in life I truly loved to do. I just wish there was a way to completely hide the bag without getting a barrage of stupid questions hurled my way!
That is hard to go through. Society as a whole is still ignorant and generally think it's OK to make comments without thinking. It's a shame that it keeps you from enjoying your time at the beach. Would a support band that looks like a back brace help at all? Most people would have no idea that you have an ostomy bag under it.
You must live on a different planet or at least in a vastly different society than I do. I've lived well over 65 years as an adult and have NEVER experienced the kind or number of rude people that you describe. I treat others with respect and have always been treated well in return. I can only wonder what my experiences would have been like if I had come across as disrespectful and defensive. In any case, resorting to violence WILL ALWAYS make a bad situation WORSE.
@@rae0521 I understand what you’re saying, and before I had my ileostomy bag, I probably would have a greed with you, but trust me, what do you have something that makes you stick out like a sore thumb, you would be absolutely shocked at people‘s behaviour. Perhaps I am overreacting, but for good reason. I’ve been travelling disease for 32 years now, that in itself is enough to break your spirit, how to add on top of it having people act the way I mentioned there’s enough to push you right over the edge. Please try to understand where I’m coming from, put yourself in my position, with more informed eyes, perhaps then you could understand why I feel the way I do. Are used to be an optimist, until I worked up enough nerve to show the world all of me, and then reality hit. You’d be amazed at just how cruel people can be, and they probably don’t even realize they’re doing it, it’s probably just human instinct to stare at things that you don’t understand, but I was extremely disappointed that people would actually verbally make comments, pointing, behaving like five-year-old children, it came is one hell of a surprise to me, but when you suffer from chronic anxiety and depression because of all the surgeries, and how your life has been turned upside down and backwards, you’re already extremely emotional to begin with, and that’s one thing a lot of people don’t realize, so it doesn’t take much to upset you in that regard. The only thing I ask for is to be treated like everyone else, that’s not too much to ask for, so when people begin acting like heathens, I draw a line. Please understand I’m not a violent person, in fact I’m the total opposite normally, but if I could put into words how it feels in my mind to go through everything I’ve gone through and then to have society behave the way it does, perhaps then you could understand, it’s next to impossible to describe. Just know that I’m not a monster, I’m not violent not vicious, if anything I’m very friendly normally, the only thing I want is to be treated normal, not like a circus freak.
@@GIguy I hope I understand at least some of your view and I do apologize for offering my glib opinions and untested assumptions. We humans are a flawed bunch - hopefully not fatally flawed. Witness the insanity south of the border lately. I too wear a bag but only for the last 2 years and I'm well past the age where I would parade on a beach unless I was in a Burka! So I'm in no danger of being stared at or abused as has been your experience. BUT... i reached puberty in the early 50s (in Toronto)... as a gay man. Luckily my orientation didn't show and I was good enough at playing straight to avoid the kind of overt abuse you describe... but a lot of my friends did. It helps I think to realize that WHAT OTHERS THINK OF YOU IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. I put that in caps because I think it's important. It's also good to remember what Eleanor Roosevelt is reported to have said: You wouldn't worry so much about what others think of you when you realize how seldom they do. Finally, always remember that when someone treats you with disrespect they're saying much more about THEMSELVES than they are about you. Pity them... don't pound them.
Hi, I’m about to have a Stoma/Ostomy fitted as I am now paralyzed from chest down seriously effecting my continence (just had a Suprapubic catheter fitted too recently and was wondering as to whether you could advise me as to any RUclips channels that would be helpful to me? Congrats on your channel and Maggie’s too they have been very helpful but have been searching for one regarding Stoma & paralysis - any assistance would be very much appreciated. Regards, MarkC - Founder of Ability2.org
Hey Mark, I'm not aware of any RUclips channels that are specific to stoma care and paralysis, but I do have at least one member on my community forum who manages his stoma from a wheelchair. www.veganostomy.ca/community/
A perfect example on how things are done in North America. However what happens when your Stoma is above your “belly button” and is a parastomal hernia? This question is pertinent to Northern England where I reside.😮😮😮
Hi Peter. You should have quite a few options for parastomal hernia support, especially in the UK. Consider reaching out to Comfizz, CUI Wear, SuportX, etc. I've got a list of manufacturers who should be able to help: www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/ A stoma nurse should also be helpful, as many of these support products will need to be properly measured for the best fit. Once the hernia is supported, clothing options should open up for you. Good luck!
@@VeganOstomy Hi thanks for the prompt reply. I am now into year three and the stoma is just about losing the battle to rule my life! However I am using a CUI support but the problems arise when I am sat down or driving and the flow of my output has nowhere to go. I suppose having the first stoma during lockdown (Nov 2020) hasn’t helped and then last year having the reversal only to find out that the cancer has returned. Now it is a ‘bag for life’. I am getting better support now but it still is the case of pushing to get things done. All the best and keep on rocking.
There are some small guards, but I personally find that the smaller they are the less effective they are, and could possibly be dangerous because they aren't spreading any impacts over wide area.
+Jose Romero great question! I address that in this written article : www.veganostomy.ca/how-to-empty-ostomy-bag/#BONUS_Tips_if_you_have_mobility_issues
I have had a stoma for six years. I perform on stage and stand up, improv. And I cannot for the like of me understand why people wear the bag outside. Sorry that is my POOP. I aint doing it
Some people simply find it more comfortable and have fewer leaks when the bag is out (with a cover, belly band, or opaque bag) vs keeping it tucked. It's not really about showing it off, but personal comfort :) I'm glad that you're an active ostomate! That's always nice to see =)
I had my colostomy a month ago. I felt compelled to let you know as soon as possible that I am so grateful for your videos. So very grateful. Thank you so much .
You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to say thanks 👋😄
How was your pain after surgery and your recovery thus far? I’m going in a week and am pretty nervous. I am having laparoscopic surgery btw. Thanks
I don't know how I stumbled on this video. I had an emergency colostomy five years ago. I suppose the surgeon saved my life, but he didn't do a very good surgery. The stoma was flat and didn't actually enter the bag through the barrier rings which made the bag a problem. I had very little support for how to wear the bag and options for clothing which really left me in the dark about the whole thing. I am not the squeamish type and taking care of the ostomy was not a big deal to me, but it was annoying at times. I wore the bag for a year before the colostomy was successfully reversed.
This video was WONDERFUL. I wish I had known about this soon after having my colostomy. It would have made getting dressed and options for wearing the bag so much easier. The information this video contains is extremely helpful. THANK YOU. I know it will be very helpful for people who need this information.
I really appreciate your kind words, Steven. I'm glad you had a successful reversal. I wish you all the best!
I'm so glad, grateful, to have found this video. You've relieved a great deal of my anxiety as I prepare to return to work next week for the first time after my colostomy surgery
Good luck with everything!
This is a great informational video you have here. Thank you so much for thinking of us. I am still amazed just how many of us we actually are. I totally concur, the prep bag of emergency supplies and a spare change of clothes is a lifesaver. I have one in the back of the car,. I have only used mine once in the three years of my colostomy, but the three years of not having the worry of the what-ifs is well worth it. Just don't forget to rotate your supplies and keep them fresh and up to date.
Thanks for writing, Rick! Being prepared takes a lot of stress out of living with an appliance! That's for sure.
Just watched quite a few videos on your tips for men! In my group the men were complaining about not being able to dress properly for work, in different jobs. Now I am not very good at the computer yet(my son teaches me, when I can catch him)! So I do not know yet how to put up the links from your videos to the group, witch is very frustrating, so I go back and try to type in exactly what the name of the video is for them to look up on youtube. And hope that they can find your fantastic videos! Thanks again, I find your videos to be the most helpful ones that I watch. You are helping a lot of ppl. out there that years ago, didn't have this great way of actually seeing how others cope and get on with there lives, living with an Ostomy! I have had my Ileostomy next summer, 30 years, and back then, there was nothing! I am so surprized myself that I have found a wealth of info on youtube, of Ostomates, like yourself, who give their time unselfishly, to help others, like myself......Chia.
As someone facing surgery in a few weeks I found this video very useful and uplifting. Thanks!
Good luck with everything, David! I hope you have a speedy recovery. 👍
Hi. I am also facing laparoscopic ostomy surgery in a week. Could you tell me what the pain level was like after surgery and the recovery for the first few weeks? I’m pretty nervous about the whole thing. Thanks
@@Alundrahs The first few days was pretty painful, but only when trying to activate your stomach muscles, sitting up etc. Sitting, lying still is just fine. Sleeping was OK, but rolling over hurt. I was offered plenty of pain relief. I was up and out of bed the next day. So it's really only the first few days, not a few weeks, that you will be sore. My surgery also in involved a lot more than just the ostomy, so the ostomy part didn't seem so bad. You'll be just fine. Good luck.
What a great series of videos. I stumbled upon them in my search for info so I don't have to keep peppering my friend with questions post-surgically
Glad you found the channel 😀
Great video. Very informative and kept simple.
Hello, and I hope this finds you well. I can't thank you enough for posting this, and other helpful ostomy videos. My husband had a successful ileostomy just yesterday, and for the past two weeks I've been scrambling to research products and garments to improve his quality of life. I worried I'd either be getting unnecessary items or the wrong products for his stoma. Your videos give me great comfort in this unfamiliar territory, but more importantly, peace of mind that my husband will be ok. We're starting this journey Hollister products, and I glimpsed a review you posted on 1 and 2 pieces ostomy bags from their company, so I'll take a look at that video as well. Thank you again for sharing your experiences with ostomy supplies and garments, I am overwhelming grateful.
I wish you and your husband all the best, Monique! It gets easier, I promise!
Hello Eric, thank you so much for getting back to me so promptly. I see that the vast majority of people I’ve watched on RUclips suffer from Chromes Disease and require the stoma/ostomy whereas mine is due to both the paralysis, precancerous growths & serious incontinence problems.
I will keep searching for someone who has had the stoma done due to paralysis and be able to return to my work in the Civil Service here in Ireland..
Thank you for getting back to me so quickly.
Many thanks,
MarkC
Video is very comprehensive. Have had my ostomy since 2014 so have considered all of what you suggested. Have gone with loose shirts and wearing my pouch outside my pants. When dressing up had to get pants TWO sizes bigger than what I usually wear and have opted for suspenders instead of belts. Thanks for the video and have subscribed.
+Jules Beuck Thanks for watching :)
Absolutely wonderful video! Men need to see this will help so much!
As a new ostomate, I am very concerned about clothing options especially since my stoma is a bit high (just above umbilicus) your video was very helpful and reassuring. Thanks Cliff
Hi, mine is also quite high which make it actually easier to wear pants with elastic fittings and do not pull up your pants so much. Which also works for me is the overalls with the crossed straps across your shoulder(high in fashion)!! Because there is no belt on an overall the pouch is hanging free with absolutely no problems. You can also wear the most fadhionable T-shirts with it - just make sure it is a body fit and you will be the guy in town. Good luck with your new outfit, I am 9 months on mine now and never had so many compliments!!!!
Thanks so much for those helpful tips. I am a new ostomate and your video showed me that there are a lot of products that can make me feel more comfortable about my ostomy. Thanks so much!!!
+Devalius Lowery You're very welcome :)
Thank you for the video. I had no idea there were this many options.
Lots of options, and new ones always coming out! Keep an eye on this page for updates: www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/
This video helped me tremendously. Just recently had an ostomy and worried about what to wear and how to wear it.
Very helpful...
Thank you
Thanks for watching! I'm glad the video helped.
I really appreciate you doing this video and any others you might have. There are not many places to go for education and information.
Thanks for watching, Danny 👍 Glad the videos help.
This has been very helpful to me personally. Thanks for taking the time to do this.
I'm happy to hear that! Thank you.
Great job! I hope you are monetizing this man. Very helpful.
Thank you for this vid. My husband and I had our ostomy on our 14th wedding anniversary, 9/26/15 and it has been a little difficult for him. He's lost a lot of weight since the vid and just doesn't want to wear clothes. I bought him a few pair of sweats and when we go out, that is what he wears. I watch a lot of vids and this is the best one I seen and will encourage him to watch it with me next time. Very good tips and I thank you for them. Subbed.
Thank you! I wish both you and your husband all the best.
I have my ostomy bag now for a year and did some practical research for type of clothing this past year.
I am from South Africa and in agriculture and luckily here in our country all men on farms wear short trousers in summer. It is better to wear short trousers which make use of elasticated material around your waist. I also like to wear what we call "boiler suits" - overalls with straps around your shoulders, also called dungerees. Very comfortable and high in fashion. You can wear them with T-shirts, short and/or long sleeve shirts as well as a jacket if needed. Ordinary overalls (one piece) are nice for winter.
To dress more smart you can use any smart trousers but buy them one to two sizes bigger and then wear suspenders with them. You can wear suspenders under or above your shirt - depending if you wear your shirt over your trousers or not.
Clothing is no longer a problem for me and I can dress from very casual to very formal!! Enjoy - we have a good reason to try different clothing and then make the stoma the culprit😂😂
Thank you! This is very useful information for my husband. BTW, I would add that also shopping for T-shirts and shirts in Tall sizes is very helpful to conceal the pouch since they’re longer and you’ll have less issues with them riding up when you raise your arms and such. :)
Great tip! Thanks for sharing that 😀😀
Very helpful!! We're new to this so I can't tell you how much we appreciated finding your video!
Glad you found them!
Excellent video!!!!! Extremely informative and helpful!!!! Thank you so much!!!
You are so welcome!
Two days out of the hospital. This was very helpful, I now know some options that I can use. Thanks for the video it’s very informative.
Best to you and your recovery, Joe! 😀
Thanks so much for the great info. I have had my colostomy for 3 years and all I have worn since has been athletic pants. So comfortable but I would love to wear a pair of jeans or more dressy pants once in a while. You have given me ideas that I can definitely work with. I really appreciate it.
Terence L Glad you found it useful!
Hi I have had mine about 20 months due to diverticulitis and a sigmoid restriction,no cancer mainly caused by to much codeine due to painful knees.greats tips and I also wore sports pants with elasticated waist
The are comfy but always slipping down as under my bag is just a little low,so hard work as very conscious about the bag
If I could wear it under jeans it would be great
Looking for high underwear or an elasticated wrap. Maybe not a belt fancy neat braces with a patterned shirt
50 % of the issues are in your head
It gets easier to predict flow into the bag after a year or more,I tend to manage my journeys and alway way up the public toilet locations
I have travelled to the Far East from the Uk and just managed my meals and had an isle seat at the back near the loo
Planning all worked out and packed 2 drainable bags for each day of 21
Everything is possible if you get your head around your new situation,I even had Thai massage and the ladies just worked around it without any judgement or attitude which builds your confidence.
Thank you for this video. I going to have surgery the 16th of this month. I've been so worried about everything living with this. Your video has help me what I can use to feel comfortable going out in public. I've been so worried thank you for your video.
+Manuel Rodriguez Best of luck with your surgery, Manuel!
thanks for posting this video. I'm living with a colostomy bag and I do everyday exercise and lift weight. be thankful always for what you have
Hi. How can I contact you. Pls help
Terrific and helpful video - much thanks for creating it. I'll return to it several times as I prepare for my cystectomy.
Best of luck, Ronald!
Really great video. I'm 11 days away from a surgery to remove my bladder and I'm not getting a New-Bladder. These videos are extremely helpfull. Thanks for sharing this.
Best to you, Bob!
Great video. I am a week into my colostomy and this was the perfect video for me!!
Thanks Sean! Hope you have an easy recovery!
gave me insight of what is available for my husband as he begins a new way of life.. thank you
You're quite welcome, Judith. I wish you and your husband all the best!
This is one awesome video, I'm passing this to my ostomate friends!
You and your videos are awesome! you are great!
+F. Alvarez That's very kind of you. Thanks for watching!
+F. Alvarez That's very kind of you. Thanks for watching!
No colon, still rolling. Coolest t-shirt I have ever seen. Thank you for your video.
It's a conversation starter for sure!
Amazing video, thank you!
just wear overalls. no belts, pants waist ban to worry about. plus overalls give you lots of space when bag fills with gas or air
Thanks for the tip :) I'm definitely not an overalls kind of guy, but many people find them to work very well.
I fully agree - especially the ones with the cross straps over your shoulder - then you are also high in the newest fashion and will get many good comments!!!
I love my Chefs trousers no belt just a cord that's easily adjustable soft material but still look professional in black. If you find sweat pants the more comfortable option grab yourself some chefs trousers so you can look smart but still feel comfortable.
Very reassuring tips
Thank you for this video, so helpful.
Thank-you, lots of great information..
Thanks for watching!
Thank you my hubby is 6 months on and we didn't know about stoma guards when he returns to work. Just waiting for all clear from cancer and normal service resumes x
+Adrian Burton I wish him the best of luck!
Thank you very much, this video has been very helpful to me, I just had an ileostomy surgery 4 months ago. also I like the shirt on your website " no colon still rollin" its very encouraging.
Glad I could help!
Thank you making this video. You do great work and provide much needed information.
Thanks for watching!
Ostomy is in my near future . Thanks for your help .
+Austin L. Good luck!
+Austin L. Good luck!
I empathize my friend! I have had a reversible one that has now become permanent for three years now. You will adapt and get used to it. It will eventually just become an extension of your person as to where you really do not even notice it. My biggest concern was the fear of public "accidents" if you will. Believe me, the bags are not no where as delicate as you initially think they are.Life is full of wammys and accidents still do occur from time to time. It is just part of life. I keep a emergency kit with me floating in the back of the car that includes a change of pants and emergency bag changes. I have only used it once in three years. Best of luck my friend!
Thank you so much for this informative video. My partner is due RC surgery in the next few days and is worried sick about people seeing his stoma and bag but after watching this i don't think he has anything to worry about !
Best to your partner! The person who has the ostomy tends to make it more of a big deal than those around them :) Once your parter gets used to it and comfortable with it, there shouldn't be any cause for concern.
Many thanks for your'e reply. He's more worried about the bag leaking. We have heard it may take a while until he gets the right bag ? The stoma nurse so far has not been that helpful either. Both of us is totally dreading it due to the unknown !
Some people find a bag that works from the start and others need to experiment a little. Eventually, you find something that works and run with it for a very long time.
Very well explained 👍
Very good well explained
very informative...thank you so much
Thanks for watching.
Keep up the excellent work Eric
Thanks for the great infos 👏🏼❤️
You are so welcome!
Thank you great information
Very good video. Thanks.
Glad you liked it!
Thanks for the information.
You are very welcome. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the help. I am very reserved and stay at home alot.
Thanks for watching, William. I hope that things become easier for you.
How well do the stoma guards stay in place during exercise/movement? And, thank you for being one of the few, and better, sources for us ostomates! I'm slowly adapting to my colostomy following colorectal cancer, and assuming I beat the five year survival odds, I'd like to be able to rough house with my toddlers and participate in sports. Thanks again!
Hey Banzai4554 , thanks for your comment!
I don't play sports, but I've done a lot of work around the house that required bending, twisting and moving in awkward positions (thanks to several faucets I've had to replace!), as well as hiking, and the guards stay on very securely. I don't see them being a problem to wear during sports, provided you keep your pouch empty. Bending might be the only challenge (depending on a few factors), but there are many ostomates who play sports with a guard, and they seem to cope pretty well with it.
I wish you the best of health!
Vegan Ostomy Thanks so much! Suffering comfortably! ;)
I've had a colostomy for about 10 years now and i didn't know that some of these thing existed. Keep in mind i'm 17 and in high school. I'm going to get some of these things
=) Awesome!
I mean it's really helpful
Great video and so informative. My husband has an ostomy. He has a round figure if you know what I mean, clothing is definitely an issue for him. He tends to wear suspenders but I will definitely get him a size larger in pants/jeans. I think that will make a difference. Also I have searched for jeans/pants with an elastic waist, no luck, any suggestions?
Thanks, the video was most helpful.
Elastic wasted dress pants should be easy to find. Stretchy jeans, not so much, but you could have his favorite pair adjusted by a seamstress. One company that I can recommend is www.iamdenim.co.uk/ They make jeans specifically for ostomates. I'll have a product review at one point, but they are well made and feel great.
Where can i buy this stoma guard? Can't find anywhere
If you are referring to the StomaShield, you can purchase them on the official website: www.stomagear.com/ The style they sell now is a newer version than what's in this video. It's better in a lot ways!
Where can you buy most of the supplies you talk about. I get my ostomy supplies from Shield Healthcare in the Seattle area. Thanks
Hi Jimmy, I put a link in the description, but if you can't see it there it's: www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/
Unfortunately, most medical suppliers won't carry clothing accessories (Not sure what Sheild carries) and you may have to buy directly from the manufacturer in some cases.
Fortunately, because you are in the US, it shouldn't be a problem finding these companies who can ship to you at a reasonable price.
Where do you get high waisted underwear
Check out this page for companies selling ostomy undergarments :) www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/
Thank you. I found this video helpful 1:37
Where can I find that stoma guard?! I really need it! I have to wear dress clothes almost every day.
You're likely referring to the Stoma Shield, which can be ordered through the manufacturer's website: www.stomagear.com/ Note: they have a newer style from the one in this video which is refined and quite a bit nicer!
I wear jeans from LL Bean that have stretch waist and I wear suspenders. Also I always wear a leg bag.
I love stretch jeans!
how much are the stoma guards and where can I order them from ?
Hi John, there are quite a few stoma guards available on the market. The ones you see on the video are by StomaGear and Ostomy Resolutions. I have reviews on both products on this page : www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews#Stoma_Guards
At the bottom of each review you can find links to each manufacturer. I don't get paid for the reviews, nor do I receive any commission from the sale of those guards, but I would appreciate if you can let either company know that you heard about their product through me if you decide to buy one.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Eric
Thank you, my bladder just removed and now m going to buy stoma gear can you please share while wearing stoma guard how often you need to empty and any tip while I am out for couple of hours to handle it
Sounds like you have a urostomy, which will be different from my ileostomy in the frequency and type of output. You'll likely find that your bag fills consistently throughout the day, but it will also depend on how much you are drinking, your activity level, and so on.
For me, if I don't eat, I don't have bowel movements. But during the regular course of the day (three meals + snacks), I'm emptying my bag maybe 10 times a day.
Being out for a couple of hours shouldn't be too much of a challenge, but at least in the first several months, try to be closer to bathrooms until you learn your patterns.
Best of luck!
Will all these products work with an urostomy pouch also. Everything I see or hear about is dealing with ostomys
Mostly, yes. Ostomy bags come in various shapes and sizes, regardless of type, but some experimentation may be required before finding what works.
Hi Mate,
Thank you so much for the great information. I have question if you do any heavy lifting job does it effect your ability to finish the work since you stoma bag?
Kind regards
My work doesn't require heavy lifting but I've had to do quite a bit of heavy lifting since my surgery. I would advise to be very cautious for at least the first few years and only do gentle workouts to build your abdominal muscles up. Lifting before your body is fully healed (and even after) can result in a prolapse stoma or hernia. Best of luck!
Can you do a version for women plz
It's not likely that I'll have a video guide for women without doing some major collaboration, but I do have a multipart written guide that should be very helpful : www.veganostomy.ca/dressing-with-an-ostomy-clothing-for-women/
Good ideas I getting sick of wearing sweat paint hiked up to my ribs.😂
Hi. Great video my friend. I want to ask where can I buy acessories like belt which i saw from 4:30 to 5:00 minute of film and from 7:57 to 8:00 minute? Thanks for help.
Hey Michal, thank you. I've reviewed both of the dtoma guards that you're asking about.
For the reviews and info on where you can purchase them, check out these links:
www.veganostomy.ca/2014/10/stomashield-stoma-guard-inc-review.html
www.veganostomy.ca/2014/06/ostomy-resolutions-stoma-guard-review.html
Have a great day!
Eric
great video man,, 1 thing to ask tho,, i had my surgery this time last week,, and im just wondering,, my stoma at the moment is hard as a rock,, in time, will it go abit softer than now,, im sure its just hard cos its swollen, but i just had 2 ask,, thank you,,
andrew barrington You might want to ask your ET nurse or surgeon on your next follow up. It's common for your stoma to be swollen after surgery for several weeks to over a month, but I don't recall mine being HARD - just big!
Hope you're surgery went well.
thanks 4 getting back 2 me man,, ill do that 2moro :)
surgery went well,, its just all sore and a pain,, hope it gets better soon tho,,
where i can get that stoma guard..i am in india
+Vasu Sreenu There are several available, and I've reviewed them here: www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews#Stoma_Guards
You'll want to contact each manufacturer directly to see who can ship to India.
Good luck.
Where can i buy a stoma guard, also do you have some website of where to buy different wraps..ive been using ostomysecrets com are there any others
Depending on where you live, you can order and receive stoma guards just about anywhere. If you go to the bottom of each of my specific stoma guard reviews, you'll see non-affiliate links to the manufacturer : www.veganostomy.ca/product-reviews/#Stoma_Guards
Shirt and tie wearing is very difficult for me. Any suggestions. Have many fears about breaking or leaking.
I always found the wearing my appliance in the horizontal position using a StealthBelt worked best when I needed to wear a suit or dress clothes.
There are other solutions if your appliance doesn't fill up often or quickly, but they involve wearing your appliance under your pants (behind the waistband), and I don't find that comfortable, personally.
thank you very helpful
How to order I’m from Philippines
Hello, you'd to contact the company who makes the product you are interested in. Not all of these are sold internationally.
Finding it hard to locate seller of the protective belts. Any - suggestions?
What country? Most manufacturers will ship anywhere.
@@VeganOstomy Canada...West coast
@@Ladysmyth Let me know which belt you were looking at in particular, and I'll see if they are shipped/sold within Canada. I'm near Toronto and all of these products shipped to me without issues.
@@VeganOstomy Thank you! I will talk to my son and get specifics. Much appreciated...
link please
Links for various items in this video can be found in the video's description.
What's the best place to put my colostomy bag? In or out of my pants? Can inside wear make leaks?
Personal preference. If your bag fills up quickly, then it may be easier to wear it over your pants. With a colostomy, it should be easier to wear it under your pants, provided that it's comfortable and doesn't put too much pressure on your appliance or stoma.
I have an ileostomy and my bag often fills throughout the day, so for me, out works best.
Thank you.
You are most welcome!
My ostomy is low I like to wear my pants over my hips and my ostomy bag is a one piece that goes below where my belt would go and my bag gets crumbled up because my underwear and pants comes up over the bottom of the wafer so I wear my pants lower below my hip and my pants are always falling down
That's a challenging situation. Whenever I put the bag under my pants, it always ends up being uncomfortable.
I have seen clothing, even regular pants that have been modified by a seamstress, that would give some flex in the material where the bag sits. This could be an option worth looking into.
thanks for reply..my bag filter works one day only after that whenever gas release the bag will become balloon..in office very hard to remove air in my bag after every 10 mints..
+Vasu Sreenu Have you seen this video about ballooning? ruclips.net/video/vpkkGNKBo60/видео.html You can also view more suggestions in the article linked to that video.
Any tips for a transgender guy that has his ostomy high up and still has wide female hips? Tried pulling pants over the bag and I think I put Steve Urkel to shame with the height; plus the wedgie was painful. Then I tried putting the waistband bellow the ostomy and if it is elastic it just slips bellow my belly and pitches painfully while staying above my hips on the sides and back.
Hey Amber. I'm curious to know if you've tried any accessories or stoma guards with your clothing. I'm a fan of wearing my bag sideways as it tends to get it out of the way of my belt line, but this does depend on the placement of your stoma. If your actual stoma is above your belt like, then this may be ideal. Feel free to post the question on my support forum www.veganostomy.ca/community/ as I'm sure you'll get more suggestions from both our male and female members. Best of luck!
How about summer shorts
Same tips should apply. I wear shorts all the time without issues. Either with a stealthbelt (horizontal or vertical) or pouch cover.
Sorry how is the stoma guard does it work well when riding rides and what size of stoma guard is it a small or medium
+Batmanisawesomesoami This one works well, but there's a newer style available (review coming) and you have to get the size that works for you (the company can help find the right one) ruclips.net/video/X4GFLZ-l-Sk/видео.html
Thanks for all the help just trying to figure out which one to get before I go to great America in may
In the UK , people who have to wear a surgical device on the side of the hip are exempt from not wearing a seat belt laws .
While that may be true, I would NOT take that risk. We have accessories to make seatbelts comfortable for ostomates, so I see no reason to avoid wearing them.
My biggest problem is, my favourite beach in the whole world is a clothing optional beach right here in Toronto, on the Toronto Islands, which are a group of several dozen small islands in Toronto harbour. I know it’s not for everybody, but as soon as I got over my shyness, I begin to enjoy the feeling of absolute freedom, and despite what people think or say, it has absolutely nothing to do with sex or sexuality, it’s just a wonderful way to enjoy nature at the beach, but now with the bag, I absolutely refuse to go because there’s no hiding it, and people can be pretty damn rude! I’ve always been a pretty strong man, and I’ve always had a really good body, I still have a good body, although I’m 50 now, I only went to the beach once shortly after I got my first ileostomy, and I will never go again because I will end up being arrested for knocking out every single jack ass that decided to make a crude and rude comment. It’s easy to say just be comfortable in your own skin, but it’s another thing to have literally hundreds of people pointing at you, giving you dirty looks, and asking you the most crude and stupid questions you can possibly imagine. My story is very long and complicated, but in total, over the past 30 years I’ve had 37 surgeries, which included seven different ileostomies, 2 k pouches and a j pouch, and after going through all that the last thing I need is a bunch of idiots driving me absolutely crazy, they completely ruin my time at a place that I used to love to go to. I can’t conceal because my stoma is just above my belt line, so I can’t even wear a bathing suit. It’s incredibly frustrating, but I already have enough problems in my life without having to face being arrested, for kicking the living snot out of some jack ass who desperately deserves it! I have no problem with people asking me polite questions, I’m all too happy to answer those questions, but when people start making rude remarks to a total stranger, I cannot remain silent, my conscience will not allow me to, I came close many times, to knocking some jack ass out cold after they’ve called me a freak, or even worse. It’s been so frustrating and maddening that through no fault of my own I can no longer enjoy the one thing in life I truly loved to do. I just wish there was a way to completely hide the bag without getting a barrage of stupid questions hurled my way!
That is hard to go through. Society as a whole is still ignorant and generally think it's OK to make comments without thinking. It's a shame that it keeps you from enjoying your time at the beach.
Would a support band that looks like a back brace help at all? Most people would have no idea that you have an ostomy bag under it.
You must live on a different planet or at least in a vastly different society than I do. I've lived well over 65 years as an adult and have NEVER experienced the kind or number of rude people that you describe. I treat others with respect and have always been treated well in return. I can only wonder what my experiences would have been like if I had come across as disrespectful and defensive. In any case, resorting to violence WILL ALWAYS make a bad situation WORSE.
@@rae0521 I understand what you’re saying, and before I had my ileostomy bag, I probably would have a greed with you, but trust me, what do you have something that makes you stick out like a sore thumb, you would be absolutely shocked at people‘s behaviour. Perhaps I am overreacting, but for good reason. I’ve been travelling disease for 32 years now, that in itself is enough to break your spirit, how to add on top of it having people act the way I mentioned there’s enough to push you right over the edge. Please try to understand where I’m coming from, put yourself in my position, with more informed eyes, perhaps then you could understand why I feel the way I do. Are used to be an optimist, until I worked up enough nerve to show the world all of me, and then reality hit. You’d be amazed at just how cruel people can be, and they probably don’t even realize they’re doing it, it’s probably just human instinct to stare at things that you don’t understand, but I was extremely disappointed that people would actually verbally make comments, pointing, behaving like five-year-old children, it came is one hell of a surprise to me, but when you suffer from chronic anxiety and depression because of all the surgeries, and how your life has been turned upside down and backwards, you’re already extremely emotional to begin with, and that’s one thing a lot of people don’t realize, so it doesn’t take much to upset you in that regard. The only thing I ask for is to be treated like everyone else, that’s not too much to ask for, so when people begin acting like heathens, I draw a line. Please understand I’m not a violent person, in fact I’m the total opposite normally, but if I could put into words how it feels in my mind to go through everything I’ve gone through and then to have society behave the way it does, perhaps then you could understand, it’s next to impossible to describe. Just know that I’m not a monster, I’m not violent not vicious, if anything I’m very friendly normally, the only thing I want is to be treated normal, not like a circus freak.
@@GIguy I hope I understand at least some of your view and I do apologize for offering my glib opinions and untested assumptions. We humans are a flawed bunch - hopefully not fatally flawed. Witness the insanity south of the border lately.
I too wear a bag but only for the last 2 years and I'm well past the age where I would parade on a beach unless I was in a Burka! So I'm in no danger of being stared at or abused as has been your experience. BUT... i reached puberty in the early 50s (in Toronto)... as a gay man. Luckily my orientation didn't show and I was good enough at playing straight to avoid the kind of overt abuse you describe... but a lot of my friends did.
It helps I think to realize that WHAT OTHERS THINK OF YOU IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. I put that in caps because I think it's important. It's also good to remember what Eleanor Roosevelt is reported to have said: You wouldn't worry so much about what others think of you when you realize how seldom they do. Finally, always remember that when someone treats you with disrespect they're saying much more about THEMSELVES than they are about you. Pity them... don't pound them.
Hi, I’m about to have a Stoma/Ostomy fitted as I am now paralyzed from chest down seriously effecting my continence (just had a Suprapubic catheter fitted too recently and was wondering as to whether you could advise me as to any RUclips channels that would be helpful to me? Congrats on your channel and Maggie’s too they have been very helpful but have been searching for one regarding Stoma & paralysis - any assistance would be very much appreciated.
Regards, MarkC - Founder of Ability2.org
Hey Mark, I'm not aware of any RUclips channels that are specific to stoma care and paralysis, but I do have at least one member on my community forum who manages his stoma from a wheelchair. www.veganostomy.ca/community/
Tudo perfeito maravilhoso
Could you recommend a vegan clothing line? I found NOAH for shoes, want to support vegan! Thanks (:
Andréas Remis PLANT BASED VEGAN You'll have way better luck asking someone like Eco-Vegan Gal =)
THANKS A LOT OF INFO FOR A NEWBEE
Thanks for watching!
i need a size 3x to 4 x left size ostomy active wrap plz mail me one i can not find it any where please help i will use a men one but i am a women
+MRSABSOLUTELY61 It's best to contact companies in your country to see what they have available : www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/
A perfect example on how things are done in North America. However what happens when your Stoma is above your “belly button” and is a parastomal hernia? This question is pertinent to Northern England where I reside.😮😮😮
Hi Peter. You should have quite a few options for parastomal hernia support, especially in the UK.
Consider reaching out to Comfizz, CUI Wear, SuportX, etc. I've got a list of manufacturers who should be able to help: www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-clothing-manufacturers/
A stoma nurse should also be helpful, as many of these support products will need to be properly measured for the best fit.
Once the hernia is supported, clothing options should open up for you.
Good luck!
@@VeganOstomy Hi thanks for the prompt reply. I am now into year three and the stoma is just about losing the battle to rule my life! However I am using a CUI support but the problems arise when I am sat down or driving and the flow of my output has nowhere to go. I suppose having the first stoma during lockdown (Nov 2020) hasn’t helped and then last year having the reversal only to find out that the cancer has returned. Now it is a ‘bag for life’. I am getting better support now but it still is the case of pushing to get things done. All the best and keep on rocking.
i am 25 year old and i have permenant colostomy bag..removed rectum due to cancer..
I bought one for women. But I’m small and the small wasn’t small enough
The guard that is
There are some small guards, but I personally find that the smaller they are the less effective they are, and could possibly be dangerous because they aren't spreading any impacts over wide area.
Clothing is naturally easier up North.
But what happens if you are using a wheelchair ♿
+Jose Romero great question! I address that in this written article : www.veganostomy.ca/how-to-empty-ostomy-bag/#BONUS_Tips_if_you_have_mobility_issues
Hate mine mine is in the middle of my stomach know that other people see it
I have had a stoma for six years. I perform on stage and stand up, improv. And I cannot for the like of me understand why people wear the bag outside. Sorry that is my POOP. I aint doing it
Some people simply find it more comfortable and have fewer leaks when the bag is out (with a cover, belly band, or opaque bag) vs keeping it tucked. It's not really about showing it off, but personal comfort :) I'm glad that you're an active ostomate! That's always nice to see =)
Thank you.
You are most welcome 😄