The year is now 2020 and that is just to reference what a crazy time it is. That means that masks are usually required and people are always looking nervus and yet people still give me a crazy look when I tell them that I have a stoma. People literally lose their minds and cannot believe that I am working out with an ostomy bag and it absolutely cracks me up. It cracks me up because I am in pretty good shape. No I am not a supermodel nor do I think I ever could be, but I do work out on a regular basis and have a pretty healthy diet. This all goes into keeping my stoma happy and my general ostomy care healthy. So why does it matter that I like to work out?
Well this all goes to stereotypes that have told people that if something is different it is to be laughed at ridiculed or feared. I don't think ostomies bring about much fear but they do bring about a lot of laughter and ridicule, especially from children. Guess what, that is OK. We were all kids and most of us laugh at that type of situation, but it is really not ok to have an issue with it as an adult. People all have different struggles and health issues and anyone could end up with a ostomy. Now that the emotional things are over with I just like to let people know that we have feelings too and most of us who have a stoma are used to dealing with wild questions but we really don't want to. We live a normal life and for the most part not much changes from our daily lives except a stoma routine.
So when we go to the gym I have a few things that I like to do and let knew stoma comers to know about. First thing is to not jump right into an old routine. If you just had surgery, guess what you just had surgery. Even if it is rather minor you are now more prone to hernias and abdominal injuries. So to me this means take it slow. Now always see your own healthcare provider for medical questions and advice. But I like to tell people to lift a quarter of the amount they used to just to make sure things are ok. Maybe start lower. It is ok to waste time by not lifitng to your full potential for a few months if it keeps you from a major injury. That will knock you out for much longer so stay safe and stay healthy. Once you have that down and are working your way back up to jogging, running, lifting, or swimming then you can get into the gear side.
Get good ostomy gear. That really is key to having a great workout and being able to get back in shape. Not worrying about a leak or a smell is worth more than gold in my mind. I just want to be normal and not worry about these things. So investing in good gear allows me to lift happy and simply have a happier and healthier life. I hope this helps your ostomy journey. Stay safe and live happy!
