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My name is Taylor Mitchell-Ross and I'm in my 30's. I had stoma surgery due to severe idiopathic constipation and undiagnosed muscle and nerve disorders. I have a loop ileostomy currently but ultimately plan to have an end ileostomy. My stoma surgery was planned as a last resort for providing me a chance at a healthier life.
How did you feel before having stoma surgery?
I was so desperate for relief, I didn't care much about what I was getting or what the surgery entailed. I just wanted it to work. I wanted relief above all else.
How do you feel now after stoma surgery?
I feel so much better! I'm still undiagnosed, have symptoms, and difficult days but I'm actually able to function most days and participate in my own life again. That is priceless.
Tell us about your hobbies. Any new ones since surgery?
I create custom wooden flower arrangements, do axe throwing, and run my Ostomy and Stuff Instagram.
What do you know now that you wish you knew before having surgery?
I wish I knew that having a stoma is an ever evolving journey full of trial and error that requires patience.
What are your favourite stoma products from Convatec?
The Esteem+ 1 pc mouldable bag and the Esenta Adhesive Remover spray.
Featured Products
ESENTA™ Sting Free Adhesive Remover
Esteem™+ Mouldable Drainable Pouch with InvisiClose®and Lock-it Pocket™
Featured Articles
10/10/2024
me plus Community
Travel
Travelling with a Stoma Bag: What to Pack
The idea of taking long trips with an ostomy may seem daunting at first. But with a little extra preparation, you can...
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Everyday life
Travel
Road Trips with a Stoma
Now that you have an ostomy, the idea of taking long trips can seem daunting. But with a little extra preparation, yo...
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Travel
Stoma Travel Tips
Extra security precautions are being taken at airports and other transit hubs worldwide. A little pre-planning and un...
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Diet
Everyday life
Living with a Stoma: Hydration
Learn about the importance of hydration when living with a stoma. Our guide provides tips on fluid intake, recognisin...
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Fashion
Fashion Tips for Men Living with a Stoma
After stoma surgery you can wear the same clothes as anyone else – and do it with style! Here are some fashion tips f...
Read more Read more11/12/2024
Fashion
Fashion tips for women living with a stoma
Here are some practical fashion tips from Jearlean Taylor, a successful model, author, and businesswoman who has neve...
Read more Read more16/12/2024
Everyday life
Tips for Managing Anxiety After Stoma Surgery
One of the biggest worries for people who have recently had stoma surgery is what other people will think.
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Everyday life
Returning to Work with a Stoma
From industrial jobs to the classroom, from long shifts at the hospital to dancers – and all workplaces in between – ...
Read more Read more22/01/2025
Everyday life
Back to school with a stoma
As your child begins to recover from ostomy surgery, it is normal for them to feel fearful or anxious about their nee...
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Activity
Exercise After Stoma Surgery: Back to Basics
No matter what level of physical activity you want to pursue, stoma surgery shouldn’t hold you back.
Read more Read more12/12/2024
Everyday life
Bathing or showering with a Stoma
Showering or bathing with a stoma should not interfere with your regular cleaning routine. Here are some tips on bath...
Read more Read more16/12/2024
Everyday life
Peristomal Skin Care
Knowing how to identify irritated skin around your stoma early and keeping it healthy could help avoid greater compli...
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