Hi, my name is Karen. I had a dissection of the aorta in 2019. I really don't have friends or family to talk to about living with an ostomy and recovery, how to get products and help, or advice on how to have a life again. I feel very alone.
karen.dean.home
Oct 22, 2024 4:13 pm
Riva
Oct 22, 2024 4:43 pm
Hi Karen, and welcome. Education is key on this new journey of yours. I suggest you check out UOAA, United Ostomy Association of America. It's our national organization. Also, Ostomy101.com. You will learn about foods, blockages, skin care, clothing, ostomy products, travel, activities, and a whole host of other tricks of the trade. You might also want to check out a local support group near you. Just remember, you are not alone on this new journey of yours. Wearing a pouch does not define who you are. There are solutions. We're all here for you. Best of luck.
Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 37,760 members who truly understand you.
It's not all about ostomy. We talk about everything.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even found love. Most importantly, people here are honest and genuinely care.
🛑 Privacy is very important - we have many features that are only visible to members.
Create an account and you will be amazed by the warmth of this community.
37,760 members
Hugo
Oct 22, 2024 6:09 pm
Welcome Karen. Glad you are here. You will find a lot of support here. You are not alone. Ask any questions you need to. I find that no one except another ostomate truly understands what life is like with an ostomy. There are many wonderful people here to help guide you on this journey. We are your tribe.
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As a student, there are easy ways you can prepare ahead and manage an ostomy while you are at school.
Read answers to frequently asked questions about how to change your pouch and participate in activities.
Read answers to frequently asked questions about how to change your pouch and participate in activities.
warrior
Oct 22, 2024 7:44 pm
"Dissection of the sort?"
I'm hoping that's a typo because I've never heard of this before.
Please explain.
What kind of ostomy do you have?
Where have you been since 2019?
How did you find us?
Okay, enough of me being nosy Rosie.
We will help you. It's the right place. Glad to have you. How can we help? Just list your questions. Others will chime in.
TerryLT
Oct 22, 2024 8:52 pm
Hi Karen, and welcome. Many of us don't know anyone else with an ostomy, or anyone who even knows about ostomies, so you are not alone. You have found a great group of people who have all 'been there' and understand what you are going through like no one else. We are all here to support each other with physical and well as emotional challenges. Anything you want to ask, just ask away, and anything you need to just vent about...same thing. You don't need to be alone. This site saved me in my early days of being as ostomate. I'm sure you will find it helpful too.
Terry
How to Manage Ostomy Leaks with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister
