This World Ostomy Day, we’re shining a light on the inspiring journeys of people living with a stoma. We’re thrilled to introduce our newest Oakmed ambassador, Lynne. Here, she shares her journey with honesty, positivity, and plenty of wisdom for anyone adjusting to life with a stoma.
Can you tell us a bit about your stoma journey? What led to you getting a stoma, and how has your life changed since then?
After 35 years of Crohn’s, it became the right time for me personally. Surgeons first advised a stoma about 30 years ago, but I wasn’t ready then, I was a young single mum raising three sons and teaching them to swim, and I couldn’t face it. Over the years, I had countless resections and surgeries, but I always said no.
About five years ago, my intestines stopped working completely. The nerves and muscles had given up, and I had to physically evacuate my bowels myself. It was the only way, but it wasn’t sustainable. After years of tests, pain, bloating and no control, my surgeon told me I was at serious risk of a blockage or perforation. I’d narrowly survived both before, but this time I was older and more fragile. I knew I had to accept it.
So, in April this year, I had permanent ileostomy surgery and it has given me my life back.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced since your surgery, and how did you overcome it?
Eating solid food again. I’d been solely PEG-fed for nearly 20 years, so the idea of eating a meal felt alien. Nutrition wasn’t part of my life, I’d often forget to eat for days. To overcome this, I followed other ostomates on social media for ideas and bought myself a beautiful dining table by my patio doors. Now, it’s a daily reminder to sit down, eat, and enjoy food again.
What are some of the highs and lows you’ve experienced as an ostomate?
Honestly, I can’t think of many lows. I can eat again, I fit into my clothes better than ever because I’m no longer bloated, and every day feels like a high.
On a personal level, I lost a relationship because of the surgery, but I don’t see that as a low, because if someone can’t love me unconditionally, they don’t belong in my life. Hydration can be tricky as Daisy (my stoma) is very active, but that’s just about getting to know each other!
How has your outlook on life changed since your surgery?
I’m happier and I feel alive. No more pain, bloating, or constant toilet trips. I’ve calculated that I save an average of 770 minutes a week now I’m not tied to the bathroom, that’s incredible. The only downside? I actually have to buy food now, not just milk!
What are your top three tips for someone newly adjusting to life with a stoma?
- Make friends with your stoma. It needs to get to know you as much as you need to get to know it. Don’t stop doing the things you love, let your stoma adapt to you.
- Surround yourself with unconditional love. Only keep people in your life who accept you as you are, you don’t have energy to waste on anything else.
- Use the support available. From nurses to product suppliers, there’s so much knowledge and so many resources out there – don’t be afraid to use them.
How do you manage your daily routine with your stoma?
I’ve created a brand-new routine around eating, prayer, family, friends, and sport. Before surgery, I couldn’t plan anything around my pain and toilet needs. Now, I diarise everything, make time for myself, and write down achievements so I never take life for granted.
Are there any products that have been particularly helpful?
Absolutely – the Oakmed Alginate Soft Convex bags have been a game-changer. My skin was sore and reacting to other brands, but within 48 hours of trying Alginate, it cleared completely. I don’t need barrier creams or extras, just one product that works. Less waste, less cost, and much easier for me.
What advice would you give to someone struggling with confidence or body image after surgery?
First, know that feeling self-conscious is normal, it doesn’t mean you’re weak. For me, two things helped:
- Visiting a free personal styling session at John Lewis for clothing advice (and a little treat for myself).
- Talking openly about Daisy, my stoma, so it never feels like a secret or a burden.
How important has community support been for you?
Huge. I never realised how many ostomates there are, people of all ages, backgrounds and countries. There’s always someone out there you’ll connect with, and once you do, you’ll realise you’re not alone. The tips, advice, and laughs make such a difference. It feels like we’re all on this journey together.
What role has Oakmed played in your journey?
Oakmed have provided products that work perfectly for me, especially the Alginate Soft Convex range. Their social media is also really positive and thought-provoking, sparking honest discussions. And through the Ambassador Programme, I’ve connected with people who inspire me and make this journey relatable.
How do you talk to others about your stoma?
I’m open and honest. Daisy is part of me, so you don’t get one without the other! It makes conversations easier and helps people understand, it’s usually others who feel awkward, not us.
Have you given your stoma a name?
Yes, my stoma is called Daisy. I named her long before surgery so my family could get used to talking about her. It makes it easier for my sons and grandchildren to ask, “How’s Daisy?” rather than “How’s your stoma?”
What’s a hobby or activity you’ve enjoyed more since surgery?
I’ve always loved sports and the outdoors, but now I enjoy them without pain. Cooking is also new for me, I never needed to before when I was PEG-fed. And travelling is far more enjoyable now.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Farley’s Rusks with milk! I’ve loved them all my life and still swear by them.
If you could spend a day with any celebrity, who would it be?
Vincent Van Gogh, I’d love to cheer him up and show him just how talented he was.
What are your goals for the future?
To travel more, encourage others with a stoma to live confidently, continue tracing my family tree, and spend time watching my grandchildren grow.
How will you celebrate World Ostomy Day this year?
It’s a reflective day for me, it falls on both my late father’s and my youngest son’s birthdays. My father also had Crohn’s and a stoma, and my son has Crohn’s, so I’ll spend the day quietly with my family and at the cemetery.
What message do you want to share on World Ostomy Day?
That an ostomy isn’t the end of your life, it’s the start of a new one. This is your only life, don’t waste it.
What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about living with a stoma?
That for me, and for many others, it’s given us a freedom we never thought possible. Take the padlock off the chains and throw it away, you’ve got this. And on the days you don’t, we’ve got you.
Lynne’s story is one of strength, resilience, and honesty. From relearning how to eat to embracing a new daily routine, she has faced life with her stoma with remarkable positivity. On this World Ostomy Day, we’re proud to have her as part of our Oakmed family and we know her words will inspire many others to embrace life with a stoma with confidence and courage.
