Nomadic life with a PERMANENT colostomy bag! How does it work?

Nomadic life with a PERMANENT colostomy bag! How does it work?
Malin & Tom
Malin has had her permanent colostomy bag for quite a few months now, and it has definitely taken some getting used to. This is obviously normal with such a massive change like a colostomy, however Malin has had some extra challenges to face - she lives in a van!
Living in a van with a permanent colostomy bag can be quite challenging, but our mindset is that anything is possible and everything is doable. Malin has an inspirational mindset and she doesn't let anything hold her back, especially not her colostomy. Malin ended up with a permanent colostomy bag after a rough battle with colon cancer. She fought through several rounds of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and two major surgeries, leaving her without a colon or a uterus, and with a permanent stoma.
She has since been given the green light to travel, and we have sold our house and moved in to our van, and have driven all the way down from the frozen Swedish winterland, down to the warmth and palm trees on the south coast of Spain. Living in a van with small kids is certainly a challenge, and living in a van with a colostomy magnifies it! But life is short and we're making the most of it.
#cancerrecovery #colostomy #colostomybag #cancertreatment #vanlife
🟠 Find out more! - www.malinandtom.com
Who are we?
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We are a young 'Swenglish' adventure family, that consists of Swedish Malin, English Tom, and babies Charlie & Isabella, who are half and half. We love all kinds of adventures, including travelling around Sweden and beyond in our self-built campervan called Sunny, we're currently travelling the warmer climates of southern Europe and are glad to be cancer-free, after a rough battle with colon cancer.
📸 Instagram - / swenglish_adventure
🔵 Facebook - / theswenglishadventure
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[@malinandtom]

Got a bit emotional at the end there... Leave a little comment below if you've got any good Spanish tips for us! 🇪🇸 Until next week, join the adventure on Instagram! 👇🏼 📸 bit.ly/3NiiFET

[@swanneck2299]

Ah, it makes me very happy to see you living your best life Malin. You are an absolute inspiration to anyone facing cancer. Enjoy and cherish every single moment of your trip with your family

[@lougeniaj6289]

Malin, seeing your happy tears brought me to tears. So happy for you and your family!!

[@snodge100]

Tom I could never doubt how you care for Malin and the children your love is evident ❤

[@TJTimberhurst]

Malin, you are hugely inspirational.

[@ellencaswick3131]

Malin and Tom. I could not be happier for you and your family. I have been watching through from the beginning of Malin’s diagnosis. All you ever wanted was to be with the kids and I am thrilled for your whole family 🙌🏻

[@michellemcgowan1030]

Love you two💝 I’m so happy you get to live your dream your both very deserving of it😃

[@mariebarrett8774]

You are absolutely glowing...think the sun ☀️ is working it’s magic 🪄 So lovely to see you all having so much fun ... The love ❤️ you have for each other & for your beautiful children is breathtaking...❤️ I continue to send a continuous flow of healing reiki energy to you daily Malin...xx💜🕯💜🕯💜🕯

[@malinandtom]

Thank you so much! The sun is definitely doing its magic, we all feel really good again! 🧡

[@CattyT1]

I watched this whilst hoola hooping! My colostomy is 18m old. Can I wear what I want, nope because I ate too much when I couldn’t exercise due to complications, so not the stomas fault, all mine! Can I do what I used to, nope - but that’s because I care for an increasingly dependant, frail, very elderly parent. So not the stomas fault. If I was free to choose what I could do I’d be doing the same as you! Yoga, walking, hooping, gym, all possible with a stoma and no one ever knows you have one either. Enjoy the sunshine!!

[@maried8323]

Malin you look healthier and happy! You have the best attitude and it shows...

[@joanpotanko6351]

I am so happy that you are all able to travel and see all this.

[@kimnixon4969]

Malin what a fabulous video! Your positivity and honesty about the stoma is amazing. I love that you encourage others to see the benefits of having a stoma, vs allowing it to be the excuse for not living life. I am so happy for you and thrilled your feeling well and living life to the fullest. We love your family! Your friends here in Texas! ❤

[@haawkinss1]

Always a highlight of my week. Thanks for your words on stomas and love seeing your joy. LIFE is short go live it

[@mariebarrett8774]

Sunny ☀️ is beautiful & a very good choice as you & your beautiful family have the sunniest outlook on life ....Malin you are an inspiration thank you 🙏🏻 you words & your journey will help so many on their personal journey I’m crying happy tears with you from my home in Ireland 🇮🇪💚

[@maddieb2763]

Malin, you made me cry. It is wonderful to see you so happy. It really is. I hope you have a great time in Spain. If you need something or if I can help you in any way, just let me know. Wishing you all the best. 🥰🌹🤗❤ By the way, the Sunny sign looks amazing.

[@chestersmum4158]

Great vlog so good to see the joy on your faces 💕

[@donnabroderick8572]

Hello Malin & Tom Ooh no Spanish Tips…Sorry! But sooo good to see you so happy Malin. I have been following for about a year & gee Charlie has grown up so much!! I cried when you cried Malin, & send all your family much love from Australia 🇦🇺 Your talk on your Stoma was fabulous too Malin.. you’re living you’re life!! 😎❤️

[@irenekegel5988]

So happy for you guys

[@tonybrain5995]

Words well said Malin you are proof of what you can do if you put your mind to it xxxx Barbara

[@karnaxiom1635]

This made me happy♥️ bless your sweet little family.

[@margmugleston7669]

You are such an inspiration Malin! With an amazing family. Enjoy your travels in the sun❤

[@joyhursey1480]

So glad you are able to have fun times at last . Safe travels x

[@TheonaYates-qz6hr]

Such positivity regarding your stoma can only be helpful to others who may be facing the same challenges you had. Looking forward to seeing you all thrive on your sunny adventure. Thank you for sharing.

[@user-gn6hd8kt2w]

Love you two what a strong woman you are malin. Your kids look so happy what an adventure for them. Tom you are malin greatest supporter i love that what a lovely man. Malin i think it is great that you are showing people you still can do whatever you want even with a stoma bag. Stay safe love following your wee family.

[@lpgirl]

How beautiful to see you this happy! Great family....keep on having fun!!

[@marygrando4089]

Such a beautiful family, blessings to you!

[@rita1721]

Oh Marlin! You have the sweetest children and Tom just adores you! Not going to lie you did make me cry I was so happy for you and it showed when you cried! Stay strong and enjoy your journey with your family! Love all you videos!

[@jodiwestreich4497]

I’m just so happy for all of you. Not only do you all look amazing but the kids seem to be having the best time. Looking forward to the next episode. Safe travels. 🚐🌴❌⭕️💜

[@lyric8006]

I loved the wide range this video traveled. Malin’s sharing her attitude about having an ostomy was so powerful & inspirational. I was touched that you opened your heart to us & it just made me love you more. I’m learning so much from you & having fun at the same time. And Tom you are the definition of a perfect dad & husband. Btw, what is the temperature in F there? 💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓💓

[@DebGeeDee]

I hope you guys make it over to Australia one day - you would love doing the ‘big lap’ 🥰. You captured the town and scenery really well - great place!!! You already have a healthy glow Malin - so happy for you. I love stopping in random places too. You are rocking that stoma - fantastic help to others 😇😇. Malin being emotional made me cry - super super happy for you all. Xxxx

[@christinewelch8365]

Thanks for the reminder that we are only limited by our ideas. I have type 1 diabetes and I don’t let it slow me down. I have to carry lots of supplies too. Some inconveniences but nothing I can’t handle. Great video!!

[@serenadm6619]

What a beautiful video ❤

[@user-qr7hr4hj7p]

Diane here in Melbourne Malin and Tom - what a brilliant happy video, so happy to share the realisation of your dreams for family travel in Sunny🌼, the kids are living their best life ❤❤❤❤

[@malinandtom]

Thank you Diane 🧡

[@michellewilkes6585]

So happy to see you get to travel. Happy tears. You have all been through so much. Enjoy!!

[@rhianevans7189]

Hi Malin and Tom Wow nice weather where you are. The children look happy and content anyway which is good. Malin looks much better since her news with the surgeons. I have a permanent stomach due to a chronic infection on my bowel and very difficult to remove. They could not reverse it due to adhesions and can only remove these as an emergency. I was admitted as an emergency with sepsis so this saved my life which I am grateful for Much love and respect from Uk x

[@tvic4038]

Aww Malin, I’m so happy for you and your family enjoying the wonderful beach. It was a trial but there you are!! Enjoy your week, can’t wait to see what you have going next week! Sunny looks great with her decals!! Well done! Love you guys!!

[@tftlred5454]

Ahh so happy for u all x just enjoy it all darlins 👍💖🦋🇬🇧

[@sherrithomas4350]

You made me happy cry with you!! What a happy family, so good to see. The kids are having a blast. Continued good health to you and safe travels. Love the scenery.

[@WVislandia]

Well done, you two! You've worked hard to get to that sunshine and watch those little ones playing happily. Couldn't happen to a nicer pair. Keep enjoying!

[@lorainewimbledon2029]

What a lovely time you are all having on your travels..at last! The sound of laughter and happy squeals from Bella and Charlie is wonderful and I can understand you getting emotional Malin, after all you have been through you need this ❤

[@tuularintanen6815]

Underbart och se er så lyckliga och barnen dom är fantastiska❤

[@amandawreland6597]

Att se dig Malin bli så rörd och tacksam över livet fick mig att gråta. Gläds med er härliga mysiga familj!❤️

[@karlaharvey2623]

There you four travelers are! So good to see you enjoying such a beautiful area. Wow! Malin, thank you so much for speaking out about your stoma bag and how easy it has made your life and the ease of it with travels. Would you share with us what type of bags etc you use, and covers for your bag for more intimate times? I think it would really be helpful for anyone that’s considering travels and being care free. Love y’all bunches. Thank you for bringing us Friday travel along with you. Be safe and have lots lots of fun. You two are so adorable. And seem truly happier than I’ve seen you. Love it.

[@robinjanz2243]

I'm SO pleased for you - seeing your joy by the sea! ❤ Going through hard times with one's health sure makes a person appreciate wellness! How much we take for granted! Your positive attitude is inspiring. Spain looks beautiful! Some day, I would love to explore Europe. For now, in southern Manitoba, Canada, I am listening to the wind and postponing my trip to the post office because there's a snowdrift I know I will get stuck in if I try to leave the yard! 😊

[@nancyrojas1926]

Beautiful!!

[@louisemason2006]

Such a lovely vlog, i've never been to Spain so i'm seeing it through all your eyes ❤ happy tears Malin ❤

[@charleigh3275]

Malin, beautiful message&heart felt. Would you be willing to share what kind of dietary restrictions you have with your colostomy, how to introduce fruits and vegetables,and any other dietary tips? My friend got hers due to cancer too& is terrified of vegetables & fruits due to one bad experience. She would like to travel again. My concern is her not eating a complete nutritional diet&it's very obvious to me currently in the way she looks. She's always eaten well balanced meals&drank plenty of water. I've strongly suggested to take a break from all her fancy coffees & use herbal tea instead. Any cookbooks,websites or tips you can provide would be extremely helpful. Thank you so much! Enjoy your time in Spain! Give yourself grace and take it a hour at a time!

[@sharonbarker7448]

Lovely to see you warm and comfortable and enjoying yourselves.

[@iamtilima]

A thousand likes👍👍👍👍....... such a stunning tour of Spain with you both. I was born in Madrid, migrated to Australia as an 8 year old and unfortunately have never been back. You made me cry at the end Malin😘 Ì can imagine that your happiness would have been overwhelming after such a journey with Cancer. I hope it's all behind you now and only happy trails ahead ❤🇦🇺

[@Mona-lg6tk]

Alhambra is a experience don’t miss it. Malin i have had my stoma for 3 years and i am happy too have it. I can do much more With it and befor. Nobody need too be afraid to trye new tvings. Half of the year vi travel in otur mobil Home. We are son flying to Thailand. The biggest problem is to know how match stuff i must i have to take with me. Have a nice holliday traveling. Take care of you and yours family. ❤❤❤

[@malinandtom]

You are very right, I’m happy that I share this view with someone else with a stoma! And yes the hardest thing is definitely to know how much you need, can imagine it’s even harder when you fly somewhere and also have a weight to think about. Can’t just take an extra box for safety 😅 good luck with your traveling, hope you have a great time in Thailand! 🧡

[@Mona-lg6tk]

@@malinandtom 🤗

[@frokengron]

The 🌞, The beach 🏖and 🚌the nicely decorated " sunny".. 2 happy kids and 2 lovely parents ~ Makes a wonderful vlog! You guys made your dream come through! I am absolutely delighted~ And following your journey from the snowy Sweden to sunny Spain ~ What a great adventure!🌴🏝🍹.Yep... i shed some happy tears along with you Malin.You and Tom are truly inspiring living your best life! 💖

[@malinandtom]

Thank you, makes us really happy to take you along our big journey! Thank you for joining us! 🧡

[@allisononeill5265]

So happy for you guys! 😊 I was crying happy tears along with you at the end of the video, you deserve this happy ending! Spain looks amazing, wish I could visit someday! ❤️💗

[@DF-ju4cw]

Oh, are you already near Sierra Nevada in Granada?😮

[@elekajag]

What an amazing video, thank you! Just watching this, I feel soo thankful and happy myself seeing your adventures and that you get to experience this life finally!! Already looking forward to your next video ❤❤❤❤

[@trixiteresa9887]

Aww I was in tears too. Enjoy all you lovely family.🇬🇧🙋‍♀️💐💐💐

[@NordicSkadi]

You videos make me appreciate life and health like no other. Thanks for that!

[@sharonbarker7448]

Orange Square in Marbella. Estapona beach. All the white villages although some of roads would be a bit narrow for Sunny but mostly alright.

[@travellingyoginikas]

Oh what a SUPER video ❤🎥 Marlin you are so inspiring and brave and im so glad u are now living trh life you love ❤

[@HelenSch]

❤

[@MelindaAustin-dx9pv]

Can we have a warning about emotional content next time so I can prepare my tissues!!! You have the right to every tear...such an emotional journey.. literally!...

[@traciehiggins7420]

Awe Sunny the bus and all the gratitude and seeing the wittles so happy❣️ love you guys ♥️🙏

[@gerryryan1372]

Ye are a wonderful family and seeing happy tears is beautiful ye are a tight unit. ❤❤❤❤

[@sweeney2222]

I know that feeling Malin. #cancersucks So happy you are able to have these adventures. Haven’t been to Spain but it looks amazing. Thx for sharing and letting us travel a bit with you! Hugs to you all!

[@Adrianamountainview]

You are a true inspiration Malin! Happy travels beautiful family ❤

[@angelaboschetto9106]

You are a beautiful family and are having a wonderful life xxx

[@andreabloxham6896]

Go to Las Alpujarras

[@nordicfarmstead]

Helt underbart att få vara en del av er lycka. 🙏🏼 Ni är så värda den här tiden. Stark video ❤

[@sandjblake75]

Beautiful family. Heartwarming xx

[@carinafahlenjensen1850]

☀️💛☀️💛☀️

[@kimtongo3533]

❤️🩷💙💕💙🩷❤️💚🩷💙💕💙🩷❤️💚So happy for yall

[@monicaeriksson7189]

Så underbart att se er lyckliga familj i soliga Spanien . Njut allt ni kan 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞

[@karenclift1007]

Think u doing great well done u xx I do like to say tho everyone is different also depends how much bowel has been removed the first time I got stoma was great was working going gym had it reversed but unfortunately had to have another stoma this time round I have high out put so can not live the life I had …. So everyone is different so pleased u can get out and travel……

[@malinandtom]

I’m so sorry to hear about this. I’m sorry if I expressed myself wrong, never wanted to mislead or make anybody feel bad if they can’t do everything. I only wanted to send out some positive energy around it because most things I’ve seen is not very positive to living with a stoma. Of course it all comes down to everything around the stoma as well, if you’ve had a lot removed or other health issues it can be a problem. I’m sorry if I upset you in the way I was talking.

[@anneherman6745]

💛🌞

[@bocskailucia159]

hm

[@orchid4me]

Tom, why don't you carry the baby instead of Malin??

[@LaurennR]

I hear the smell is worse or is it like the normal stinky smell you'd normally get? What about farts as well😅 do they sound normal

[@malinandtom]

I’d say it’s less smell than “normal” if that’s what you’d like to call it. Gas you can’t smell at all due to the filters.

[@bobs1356]

Shirley here, are those stomas or bags suppose to show outside your pants like that or hidden under the pants?

[@malinandtom]

Hi Shirley! You can wear it however you want and think is comfortable. I always wear mine under the trousers or at least half under. But that’s only because I find it more comfortable 😊

[@Emptynestballerina1]

Do any of you watch the news about the genoside in Palestine

[@angelaboschetto9106]

Malin i dont know if u saw my comment last time. Watching tiffannythinks . Due to having the same cancer operation and having a stoma. Tiffany has to have b12 injections and multi vitamins due to the treatment she had for cancer and the tiredness she has daily . I was wondering if you need a blood test to check for vitamins defiency and maybe get regular b12 injections.

[@carinamajstedt7830]

❤

[@user-sg5bp8lu9f]

🧡