Christmas chaos with a stoma | by Ayesha
I feel like every month is hard on my social calendar but the month of December really takes the trophy!
Juggling everything
This month has consisted of late nights, parties and a lot of social events! At the beginning of the month myself and my partner celebrated with a night away in a log cabin and enjoyed a hot tub. For this, I made sure I had extra stoma supplies as the water from the hot tub can sometimes cause my bag to peel away from the skin. I always have an emergency pack in the car and I pack extra in my suitcase.
The next weekend in December was a joint surprise birthday party for myself and my fiancé. I wasn’t expecting it at all and on the evening of the party I made sure to pace my drinks and ensured that I took a Dioralyte and glass of water when I got home as you can become dehydrated very easily with a stoma bag.
The third weekend in December was a busy one! A surprise birthday trip to Manchester where I indulged in a lot of yummy food, sightseeing and mulled wine! Again, I made sure to apply a fresh bag each morning and drink plenty of water in-between meals. Christmas diet has well and truly arrived, I try to chew new and existing foods really, really well to try and avoid blockages or aggravating my stoma. I also find it much easier to eat often but little rather than eating a big meal as once as it can sometimes cause discomfort and irritation.
Sticking to your routines
Even though December is super busy, I like to stick to my routine and try to make the gym at least 3 times a week. The classes I attend are mostly CrossFit and the workouts are even more intense this month before everyone winds down for the Christmas break.
I also try to attend Pilates once a week to focus on building my core back up and getting stronger again.
As well as this, I aim to get out a run as it really helps clear my head and even if I don’t enjoy it at the time, I always feel better afterwards!
Christmas outfits
I have always felt like there’s a lot of pressure around Christmas party looks, and for me, birthday outfits too. I used to worry and overthink every outfit when I first had my stoma, stressing about my bag showing or ruining the look, but now I wear whatever I want! I try to wear what I feel comfortable in but if I love an outfit I’I wear it, I don’t let my bag choose my wardrobe for me!
I think I’ve got into the way of thinking and knowing what materials/outfits will look good and allow me to feel confident wearing it.
Reflection
I’m almost burnt out and Christmas is just around the corner so these next few days will be about prioritising sleep, relaxing and listening to my body.
Sparkle season is and always will be my absolute favourite season! I used to fuss and worry about little things, and say no to plans in December if my calendar was too full but my stoma has made me more aware to be more present and it’s the reason I can continue to celebrate and enjoy the Christmas madness!
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