Learning the ropes to care for my new stoma one step at a time
After surgery the pain was very present, very uncomfortable, very real.
LIFESTYLE
From firsthand experiences and the best viewpoints on earth (if we’re being humble), to expert health and wellness advice — we’ve got you covered.
Most people seem to focus on the "what" and not the "why" of our ostomies
From one ostomate to another, I promise it does get better.
What I do when people say rude and unkind things about my ostomy
Bottom line, people who matter don't mind.
Life-altering surgery hasn't stopped me from traveling the world alone, twice
It is quite simply the best thing I have ever done.
If I can make a difference by sharing my story, I’m certainly not going to be quiet about it
Olly and I have got plenty to say about our new normal.
What to do when you feel overwhelmed with ostomy life
Expert advice for when it all feels like too much.
Even if you're labeled “medically refractory” don't give up the fight
The hardest part of chronic illness is staying hopeful.
Despite all the positives, some ostomates still have an extremely difficult time with acceptance
Not everyone copes with ostomy surgery in the same way.
I used to worry what others thought of my stoma but now I share it with the world
Don’t let an ostomy hold you back!
People don’t talk about catheters — they’re icky, urological, and below-the-belt
Perhaps "catheter" is the new C-word?
After all the times I've pooped my pants, I was so ready for an ostomy
I practically skipped into surgery.
Nine things you should know before placing an order for ostomy supplies
Make ordering easier with these tips from The Parthenon Company.
RANT: The problem with medical TV shows representing ostomy-related storylines
I have four simple theories.
A To Your Q: What is a K-pouch and is it the right surgery option for me?
Four common questions about the K-pouch.
Coping mentally with an ostomy means different things to different people
“Mental health is about wellness rather than illness.”
“Anything but that” was the first thought I had when I learned about ostomy surgery
Adjusting to life as an ostomate takes time.
Why I’ve loved my scars from the very first day I had them
Wow, how lucky we are to have such amazing bodies.
The truth is I've only told a few people about the time I had an ostomy
I always follow the rule of share what's comfortable.
A To Your Q: Are sports drinks necessary to stay hydrated?
There are healthier options for hydration.
I don’t have an ostomy story that ends with me getting better and living my best life
Reflections on two years of pooping out of my stomach.
I’m still getting used to my new plumbing without a large intestine
Hope you didn’t mind the anatomy lesson.
Only my close friends and family know about my ostomy and that’s just the way I like it
I just want to be Leslie.
I’m determined to come all the way out of the "scleroderma closet"
Exposing all of my abnormalities to the world.