Twelve years ago, I had my large intestine removed and had an ileostomy bag for seven months.
That amount of time is just a blink of an eye in the grand scheme of things, and I was lucky to receive the reconnection and J-Pouch before developing Crohn's Disease.
If I had had the same procedure today, sure the procedure itself would be less complicated and recovery may be quicker (now they can perform the procedure laparoscopically), but the likelihood of a reconnection would be slim to none.
Having an ostomy is not the end of the world. It alters your lifestyle, and can even be a nightmare at times, but it can be done. From a very quick look at statistics, the number of people with ostomies (Ostomates) is upwards of one million.
When I was facing an ileostomy, the products available were very specific. I got to choose a size, a protective stoma cup, and a few other accessories in order to adhere the bag to my abdomen. I searched for colourful bag covers, for cute underwear or camisoles that would cover the bag and prevent the bag from being seen under my jeans, and found few options.
Now - with a niche of around one million people - there are products available to Ostomates that are functional, that can be pretty, and personal! You can add your own personal iconography to your ostomy.
I am no longer an Ostomate. I do, however, remember my time with an ostomy vividly. So I have put together a list of websites who sell products for ostomies (and other medical oddities) - people who dedicate themselves to provide products to those people already suffering (including more than just ostomies), who want additional options.
Click here to visit Grandma's Hands, which focuses mostly on cute bag covers, insulin pump covers, and other accessories for Ostomates and Diabetics.
Click here to visit Ostomy Bag Holders - which is mostly as it sounds. They carry various bag holders and covers in various colours, styles, and materials. The site seems to focus on the ability to be active with an ostomy (including swimming) which is a vital part of recovery and maintaining self-identity.
Click here to visit Cancer Be Glammed for an entire ARRAY of products that help those who have temporary or permanent products to help them survive. This includes hospital glam wear, ostomy covers, underwear and bras to accommodate post-op complications, plus beanies, skincare, and links to supports, groups, and ways to slowly get active.
Click here to visit Ostomy Secrets, who offer options for men and women with ostomies, including underwear, swimwear, really cute wraps, and even a skincare line.
There are many other websites, several stores on Etsy and Amazon, lots of options on Pinterest, but I personally loved these websites (with some being Canadian too).
I hope that these resources can help those suffering to have a little bit of help.
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