My emergency stoma surgery | by Emma

Emergency surgery removes the time usually used for mental adjustment. Here’s how I learned to love my stoma and my new body shape. I didn’t choose the ‘bag life’, it chose me but I’m still here to tell this story.

My emergency diagnosis: from IBS to diverticulitis

In October 2018, I became suddenly unwell with high infection markers and severe inflammation. At first, it was thought to be a simple water infection. After years, over 8, of painful flare-ups and being told I had IBS, a hospital doctor finally diagnosed me with diverticulitis.

My hospital admission and stoma surgery

I became extremely unwell. I couldn’t go to the toilet and was constantly vomiting. I was admitted to hospital that same day. The following day, I had a CT scan and was put on five different antibiotics, then, my bowel perforated. Just two hours before surgery, I was told I would need a stoma and I had to say goodbye to my family over the phone, not knowing if I would survive.

ICU and recovery

I woke up the next day in ICU, still intubated. I had undergone major surgery and had a colostomy formed. I was critically ill with four-quadrant peritonitis and left with a 71-staple scar. Recovery was slow, but I will forever be thankful to still be here.

Adjusting to life with a stoma

I’ve always loved clothes but after surgery, I lost my confidence for a while. Learning to dress my new body took time, patience, and experimentation.

One thing I wish I had known more about early on is hernias. I now live with a large parastomal hernia and a midline hernia on the other side. Looking back, I would have worn support wear much sooner.

Conclusion

My advice to anyone on their stoma journey would be to join support groups, they really help and are great for obtaining tips and being able to ask questions. Visit online sites to see the amazing products available to help you live life how you should live life. Everybody has a different journey on how they got their stoma but everyone also has a link to understanding each other.

Emma
@emma.robins31