There are a lot of social stigmas that exist and some of them for good reason. There are also some terrible stigmas that follow people with a stoma. What is now in existence is the ability to be a true athlete without worrying about your stoma. That is why I love talking about different companies that are making gear to help people do amazing and incredible things with your stoma. Being outside is a passion of mine. That is why I am so happy to be able to not only have a stoma but to thrive with one. I love the outdoors and the joy that comes from being in nature. When I found out I would need an ostomy surgery and would end up with a stoma I was worried about the effect it would have on what I look forward to every season. I look forward to being outdoors. After lots of reading, and listening to the doctors and nurses I gleaned enough information to know that I would still be able to do all those things. I was originally super worried about living a normal active lifestyle and I had nothing to worry about. Being a little more prepared and taking a little more gear with me was all that was going to be needed to enjoy my life. I was given good advice to try lots of different ostomy supplies and see what works best for my body.
I wanted a good attachment system so I could be active and I landed on giving different ostomy companies a try. After googling, they came up as one of the first companies. They had a good knowledgeable website and most importantly to me the ability to try products before buying a bunch of them in bulk. This was huge to me because I am going to be testing in lots of different environments. I need a bag and a belt that will work in the winter. Where I am going to be bundled up and needing moisture wicked very efficiently.
I need a spring bag that will need to deal with lots of water on the outside due to the weather. For summer I need gear that will be very efficient at being breathable. I want to be comfortable in lighter clothing. So these are the reasons that I like the free samples from ConvaTec Ostomy Supplies. I literally tried lots of different items until I found what worked best for me! The last thing I wanted was an item that gave a bad seal and leaked when I am outside and maybe far away from items or a sink.
Now even though there are true athletes doing iron men with a stoma, are there any limitations for being outside? Honestly, not really. I find myself being active and biking, hiking, fishing, and hunting. I am able to do all the things I normally did. I must say I was most worried about hunting. Animals generally have an amazing sense of smell vs humans and this I knew was going to be hard. But there are lots of good scent blocking items out there that I am able to utilize to enjoy and be successful at hunting still. So do not sell yourself short about being happy with athletic with your stoma. Be free and follow your heart.
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