ileostomy
“Through all of it we have no choice but to go on with our days” – Svetlana’s story
For the last 9 and a bit years, I’ve only been in remission from my disease for one of those years. I’ve missed out on so many opportunities and general enjoyment because of this disease taking over my life.
“I will never give up trying to make a difference in the world” – Liesel’s story
I am a Crohn’s ileostomate of 27 years, a wife, mother, medical educator, writer, traveller, foodie, advocate and a doctor of 20 years.
“I still live a good life working and doing things I love doing” – Ronald’s story
At 58 years old I still have trouble with restrictions but with determination I still live a good life working and doing things I love doing.
My journey with UC, ileostomy and a J pouch – Georgia’s story
My name is Georgia. I am 24 years old. I'm in my final year of studying a criminology degree. I am a lover of health, fitness, and Muay Thai, I am a personal trainer, and amongst all this, I am a survivor.
Bag, baby and bravery – Kate’s story
Recovery was difficult, especially while navigating new motherhood at the same time. But one year on, I’m healthy, active, and grateful to be here. I used to see stoma surgery as the worst-case scenario—but it truly isn’t. I wish I’d known back then just how much life was still possible after surgery.
“Remember, you are not alone, and you are doing amazing” – Julia’s story
If I had been told two years ago that I would end up with an ostomy bag, I probably would have cried and not wanted it and would have worried about being “different”. Today, it’s something I’m incredibly grateful for, and for my surgeons and gastroenterologist who listened. There are plenty of support networks out there for those who are struggling and knowing who they are can be a huge help, not just for your physical health but for your mental wellbeing too. Remember, you are not alone, and you are doing amazing.
“Having to learn to live life in a completely different way takes a heavy mental toll” – Emily’s story
It’s been a long journey to get to where I am today, but I’m proud to say I’m back to feeling strong and fit and pushing myself to do things I never thought possible.
“If I can channel that frustration into something positive, that would be great” – Henry’s story
“If I can channel that frustration into something positive, that would be great” – Henry’s story My journey with Crohn’s…
“I want to be someone who talks about it” – Cody Ramsey’s story
"Losing 29 kilograms in a matter of weeks, surviving multiple surgeries and an eight month stint in hospital, he is set to make what may be the greatest comeback in rugby league history."
Testing my limits and inspiring others” Owen’s story
Yet, through this turbulent period, something changed within me. As my body slowly regained strength, so did my resolve. I knew I had been given a second chance, and I was determined to make the most of it. Less than two months after my total colectomy, I completed a sprint triathlon with my new ileostomy bag, finishing 8th in my age group. The victory was more than just a physical achievement; it was a testament to my willpower and a signal to myself that my journey was far from over.
“Their stories have filled me with confidence that this was the right decision for me” – Beatrice’s story
I have met some amazing people throughout this journey, both patients and professionals alike, and their stories have filled me with confidence that this was the right decision for me. Life with a stoma is certainly not an easy one, and also not an easy decision to make. In my case I can't imagine life without it, and I look forward to see where life takes us.
“Going through all of this has made me more empathetic towards my patients” – Rebekah’s story
I’m in my final year of studying to become a nurse/midwife. Going through all of this has made me more empathetic towards my patients because I have been where they are.