Starting college can be a big milestone for any teenager, but when you’re also navigating life with a stoma, it brings a whole new set of challenges (and wins). In this honest and uplifting Q&A, our fearless Ambassador Albie shares what it’s really been like starting college with a stoma, from first-day nerves and bus journeys to building confidence and settling into a new routine.
Whether you’re a fellow ostomate, a parent, or just someone curious to hear more real-life experiences, Albie’s story is full of practical tips, honest reflections, and lots of reassurance for anyone facing a similar journey.
What are you studying at college, and what inspired you to choose that course?
I’m studying Level 3 Animal Management because I’ve always loved animals, and I’d really like to become a vet or zoologist one day. It feels good to be working towards something I’m passionate about.
How did you feel on your first day at college with a stoma?
I was definitely nervous. I was worried my stoma might make noises and people would hear, which made me feel a bit self-conscious. But honestly, no one’s ever noticed and now, even if they did, I’d feel confident enough to explain that I have a stoma.
How did you handle telling (or not telling) friends and classmates about your stoma?
I’ve only told a few people, and that happened during my bus journey to college. I don’t travel well and have been sick a few times on the 90-minute commute, so naturally my friends were concerned. I explained that I have IBD and a stoma, and they were really supportive. Instead of being weird about it, they were just curious and asked questions, which actually made me feel more at ease.
Were there any challenges in those first few weeks, and how did you overcome them?
One of the challenges I had was that the disabled toilet was right outside my classroom, which made me feel a bit self-conscious after a bag change, especially because the smell can be quite strong. No one ever said anything, but I definitely would’ve preferred if the toilet was a little further away so I could empty Fuller more comfortably.
Have you found any routines or tips that make stoma care easier during the college day?
I always make sure I’ve got my supplies with me. I take a full bag change every day and replace anything I’ve used as soon as I get home. It’s a simple routine, but it means I know I’m covered if anything happens.
How has having a stoma affected your confidence at college, if at all?
At first, I was definitely less confident. I didn’t know anyone, and I was worried about how people might react if I had an issue. But that hasn’t been the case at all. Now that I’ve settled in, got to know people on my course, and found a routine that works, my confidence has grown. I also know that if something came up, I’d feel comfortable explaining that I have a stoma.
Looking back, what advice would you give to someone else starting college with a stoma?
Don’t let having a stoma make you nervous about starting college. Take time to find where the disabled toilets are, always pack your supplies, and remember you don’t have to explain your condition unless you feel comfortable doing so. Most importantly, enjoy college and make the most of it!
While Albie has taken college life in his stride, this transition wasn’t just his to navigate. His lovely mum, Kate, watched from the sidelines with the usual mix of pride, nerves, and hope that comes with parenting a child with a stoma. From concerns about his recovery to celebrating his independence, Kate’s journey has been just as emotional. In this part of the Q&A, she shares what it was like supporting Albie through this major life step and the advice she’d give to other parents facing the same.
How did you feel watching Albie start college with a stoma?
We were very nervous about Albie starting college. It’s not close to home and his stoma was still very new at the time, so there was a lot of uncertainty. We worried about how he’d manage the travel, the routine, and whether he’d feel confident enough to cope with it all.
Were there any worries you had before he started, and how have those changed now?
Absolutely. His stoma was still so new and unpredictable, and we weren’t sure he was physically ready for the demands of college life. But we also knew how much he wanted to go. Looking back now, it’s clear that taking that step was the best thing for him, it’s been the making of him. He’s settled in, enjoying college life, and genuinely excited about what’s ahead on his course.
How has Albie adapted to this big transition?
He’s taken it all in his stride and adapted incredibly well, which has been such a relief. We’ve never doubted his strength or determination; it’s just the fear of the unknown that comes with being a parent. But, as always, he’s coped brilliantly and shown us just how capable he is.
Have you been reassured by the support at college (teachers, staff, facilities)?
Initially, it was frustrating. The college didn’t fully understand Albie’s situation and kept suggesting he shouldn’t sit his GCSE maths due to his recent surgery. But Albie was determined, he stood firm in his decision, and with our backing, he went ahead and absolutely smashed the exams. That experience opened the door to an honest conversation with the college. We made it clear that his disability doesn’t hold him back, and since then, their support has been much better. We’ve always raised our children to believe that hard work and perseverance matter, especially when things get tough and Albie proved that in spades.
What advice would you give to other parents whose child is starting college with a stoma?
Encourage your child to use their voice and speak up when they need to. As parents, we’re always there to support them, but it’s equally important to help them grow in independence and self-confidence. After everything Albie went through, it was hard to step back, but we’ve seen how capable he is. Let them know that having a stoma doesn’t change what they can achieve. With the right mindset and encouragement, they really can do anything they set their heart on.
Albie’s story is a brilliant reminder that life with a stoma doesn’t have to hold you back, it can be the beginning of a brand-new chapter. From finding his feet at college to growing in confidence and independence, he’s shown just how resilient and capable young ostomates can be. And with the support of his family, especially his mum Kate, he’s navigating this journey with courage and honesty. Whether you’re starting college yourself or supporting someone who is, we hope this Q&A has given you the reassurance, insight and inspiration to take that next step with confidence!
