Removing an Ostomy Appliance & Cleaning the Skin | Nurse with a Stoma | Let's Talk IBD

This is an in-depth look at removing an old ostomy appliance and cleaning the skin in preparation for the new appliance. Click here for the next video going over applying a new ostomy pouch and wafer! • How to Change an Ostom...
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[@LetsTalkIBD]

If you've come across this video and are curious what is on my belly, this video explains it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jX7biIGiZr6Gn68

[@DudeSoWin]

😨🍆🙈💩👺🤯 tyvm 🫶

[@MayBlake_Channel]

Awkward question (but aren't they all?): does your stoma affect your sex life? If so, would you feel comfortable sharing how?

[@user-jy9cj3fn9b]

Hi. I’m addicted to your videos. My 13 year old granddaughter has had a colostomy for nearly 7 years(we celebrate its bday). I know there is a difference but much of the journey is the same as your’s. But, like you she loves her colostomy and refuses to be reversed because she remembers the horrors of life before. She has only 7 or so inches left of her colon because the rest just plane doesn’t work as well as the anus muscles operate in reverse. She has other issues as well but plays ball, swims, hangs upside down, whatever and we do nothing to slow her down. Her mother is a nursing instructor so that is lucky for all of. I never thought I’d have to know about this but it’s a privilege to help her with daily flushes as she also has a cecostomy and a feeding button in her tummy. Thanks again. Your husband is also wonderful. !

[@technojunkindatrunk]

I had Crohn’s disease for nearly 20 years back in the 70’s and 80’s. Had ileostomy surgery at 38 years of age. It saved my life - I was dying. I’m now 67 years of age and I can say it was life changing to have the surgery. I don’t regret a single thing… I am free and clear of Crohns and live a normal life. Changing my pouch is clearly nothing compared to diarrhea 20 times a day. All my love and prayers to those suffering. Have the surgery, your life will change for the EXTREME betterment.🙏 no regrets!

[@MrGonzoify]

My story is so similar. Diagnosed at 17, ileostomy at 38. I am 53 now and in remission. I almost died saying i didn't want surgery. I am so happy i finally did it.

[@technojunkindatrunk]

@@MrGonzoify I am so, SO very proud of you that you found the courage to have the surgery! Thank you for responding, and I’m sure your family thanks you for making the right decision to truly enhance, prolong the years of your life. Again, very proud of you! 🙏🙏

[@ladonnaramirez4467]

I'm headed towards one if my 3rd colon surgery fails. I'm a nurse and it's farely logical to me at this point. I just worry what my husband's would would be. He's a saint. I'm very blessed. Any intimacy issues to concern myself with?

[@technojunkindatrunk]

@@ladonnaramirez4467 Glad you asked this question dear. Convatec have small pouches for the intimate times. I too, had concerns about sexual activity because I wasn’t married at the time. This truly was the only reason early on that I did not want the surgery. I was with a man during all this for five years-he was so dang happy that I was healed, it greatly intensified our intimate times together after the surgery. He didn’t care and neither did I. We married shortly after my surgery. Does this help? I’m here for you if you have any questions!! 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️

[@steveashton4042]

Absolutely not. I had the same worries.and my wife has never ever made any negative comments .She married me ,not this. I am blessed ! They want you to get well . All the best !

[@janmarchand7294]

I don't, nor does anyone I know, have an ostomy bag, but I find your video so informative and nicely done. What was once a mystery to me has been cleared up with your cheerful and thoughtful way of discussing it. You must be a god send to other people who are experiencing this in their own lives. Bless you for sharing you own experiences and helping other along the way.❤

[@jayciejuice]

Could not have said this better than how you just did. Exactly!

[@annebebee6764]

Another tip for nurses is to not make your patient feel bad about her skills. I change every 48 hours, take the bag off and hop into the shower. One nurse said that I should only be changing every 3 or 4 days. This does not work for me. Insurance pays for 20 bags a month so changing every other day is not out of line. I found what works for me.

[@snoglydox]

. *Only...every other day? Now I want one.*

[@kathygillman5450]

Inchange exactly the sane as you with shower and all. I was in the hospital almost 2 months due tò 2 surgeries, sepsis almost dying 2x and being a a vent w a hoste of other issues during that time no one took time to even explain Stoma. Inwas so traumatized as this was not the plan. Cancer changes it all. Anyway thank you so much and best of luck. Thank you so much

[@mollyb4541]

Totally agree. Didn’t work for me either becuz my stoma would itch. Someone’s I had to change more than once a day becuz they would leak. I had so much trouble with mine. Was finally removed and I don’t miss it. I loved taking showers without it.

[@stephaniedavis6531]

I did homecare for someone with an ostomy. I had to clean her stoma and change her bag. She was fortunate she was able to afford to buy a box of bags every month IN addition to what insurance allotted. 14 years ago she told me a box cost $400. --- In a nursing home, we had to empty them out and rinse it and reattach the rinsed out bag back on. It's obvious that no one in the Medical Insurance Industry has never had an ostomy. The cost is obscene and having to re-use a bag over and over is disgraceful.

[@captfred65]

My daughter was born in 1975 with many disabilities. She was mentally disabled and her left hand didn’t function normally. About the age of seven she got an ostomy. Dear old dad became her ostomy care taker. Coming across your channel brought back many memories. Sadly she passed away in 2009 from a variation of norovirus. We had issues with it like her calling in the middle of the night telling me bag came off. It could be as simple as putting on a new bag to changing all the bedding and a quick bath. I would do it all again if she were here. I just wanted to share one of my memories that only having an ostomy can bring. Stay well and keep educating people about this important fact of life some people will have to live with. God bless.

[@robertwray6004]

As someone about to go into surgery and get an ostomy bag for the first time, I want to thank you for your superhelpful videos. You've been a comfort, both emotionally and psychologically. And the information, while overwhelming to me now, is invaluable. May the force be with you.

[@duke13630]

How did yours go? Mine is happening in 30 days.

[@robertwray6004]

@duke13630 The ostomy surgery was successful although I picked up a bad infection after. I'm much better now. Hope yours go smoothly and well!

[@heatherbarnes9829]

Can I just tell you ahead of the premier of this video that I find your content to be incredible. You are so smart and very brave to be so open about your struggles with Crohn's disease and using ostomy bags. So often we associate diseases like this to only be found in the older population. There isn't a lot of representation of younger people when discussing things like having an ostomy. I sincerely appreciate you allowing all of us to be included in your journey. Love, hugs, and prayers from the state of Virginia! ♥️🙏

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Aww thank you so so much for such a nice comment! This made my day!!

[@robertwray6004]

@@LetsTalkIBD Ditto what Heather said. You're a rockstar.

[@brandonshaw7619]

Right???!!!!!

[@alex2934]

I totally agree with Heather. You are a wonderful nurse and a really brave woman. Love from Italy. ❤️🙋🏻‍♀️

[@karenshepler7128]

Hello and I also agree with Heather as that is a lot to deal with if you are new or just got one ..Again thanks for your help. Take care 🙂 💕

[@clarkkent5935]

Wow.. she's amazing. Intelligent. Never heard such caring and thoughtfulness. She's a Master teacher. Thanks.

[@toddcarlin5313]

So... I have a double ostomy. I'd like to share my story. I'm A heavy equipment mechanic. Race dirtbikes!! Life is not over. Just like to share my experience. Supplies. Big front Butt in public lol.

[@joeindustry]

Good luck living with both bags! 👍 me also.

[@terriradcliffe7791]

Thank you for sharing, good luck ❤

[@aletaboyette9634]

God Bless you, you live your life. ANYWAY!

[@patriciadavis1393]

I can only imagine what that must be like it is difficult even with one how did you manage to get to😢😢😢😢😢

[@jamesmeredith381]

21 years now with 2 bags! AKA THE FULL MEAL DEAL!

[@zenamorgan1754]

Maggie, I have to say very honestly I do not have a stoma nor do I have Crohn’s or any type of Gastro intestinal issues. However, I just love your channel. I love how detailed and interesting you are about having a stoma and how to live and function with one. I feel that your channel is not just informative and entertaining, it really shows how a everyday individual can live their life and function with having this issue. Keep up the good work I think you’re amazing.

[@michelrail]

I know a few people who have an ostomy bag. I have been curious about how this all works. I find it VERY generous of you to show us this in such details. I almost think I could do this. Thank you for the teaching. Your my hero. ❤

[@terrifiorelli9819]

So many nurses have no idea. I had to change my mom and take care of her stoma when she was in the hospital. Really strange why this is not taught more.

[@normacolon9618]

Well they should rhey are. Nurses and rhey have to teach the patie t at least. They just dint want to do it, and they have too.

[@ladikmk]

My best friend suffered from Crohn's for many years and finally decided to have the same surgery you referenced. She had robotic surgery, became septic 36 hours post surgery, had a pulmonary embolism and almost died. It took her several years to become comfortable with her stoma and I didn't understand exactly what she was having to cope with. I wish she could have had you as her nurse or even just to listen to you right after her surgery - it would have saved her so much discomfort and pain. I'm going to share your channel with her because it's always better late than never. There may be some nugget of advice that could make things easier for her even now. I'm so glad that your video popped up. Pretty sure there are other people out there who feel exactly the same way. Thank you!

[@ktreanaedwards807]

Do a pregnancy challenge as a mermaid xx❤

[@dawnmiller3364]

Thank you for sharing your story. I am a WOC RN, this was good for me, but I also encourage my new ostomates to see other patients share their experiences. You are so wonderful.

[@treetree5212]

Getting ready to have my second permanent stoma here in a bit . My first experience was horrific . The stoma nurse didn’t help me at the hospital and they gave me a one piece while I needed a two piece . I laid in feces for three months until I finally figured it out on my own . I said I would die before I’d ever have another stoma . But here I am ! I want to live and having a rectovaginal fistula I look forward to the stoma now . God bless you for helping people !

[@ArisSafari98]

God that's absolutely horrific of those nurses. I'm so sorry and I hope this time around is a much more comfortable and easy for you.

[@treetree5212]

@@ArisSafari98 two weeks three days post op. Handling stoma situation a bit better , got with homecare nurse for better supplies , had Barbie butt surgery and am still in crazy pain .

[@sarac.3259]

​@@treetree5212 Do very much hope things are becoming easier.

[@treetree5212]

@@sarac.3259 yes I’m almost five months out now . Wearing a one piece this time and so far so good , thank you so much ,, best wishes to you !

[@deborahmeyers551]

Maggie my stoma nurse back then was terribly awkward with me and my stoma I wish I had someone like you to help thanks for sharing your awesome vids 💜

[@tamaragarner6769]

You are one heck of a teacher. You are the best 💕

[@clairemercier3969]

1. You're SO pretty. 2. I don't have a stoma. 3. I am not a nurse. 4. I watched the whole video .... because 5. You're such a great teacher/communicator.

[@lorihoop3831]

You are a treasure and a blessing helping others with their issues and situations.

[@mattlawson714]

Thank you for normalizing this type of care. It is a necessary part of many patient’s lives and should be spoken about openly.

[@maaikewahle9324]

I am a (starting) nurse and I am so glad you made this video. I have had a lot of theory about stomas at school, but I still find it a difficult part of my work because certain things are different than you were expected. As an example, the sitting part when you taking care of the stoma is something I hadn't thought of in the first place but which makes a lot of sense! This video certainly helped me to make the care of a person with a stoma comfortable! 🙏

[@maketheworldawesome]

I change my ostomy pouch while sitting fairly far back on a toilet seat. That means my abdomen is upright and flat, I have lots of toilet paper nearby, and any excess leakage either goes down into the toilet or spurts onto easily cleaned washroom surfaces. :) I hope this video (and the next one) helps lots of nurses with provifibg ostomy care to their patients with less fear and more understanding. I had one terrible incident where I was REFUSED care even though I was very weak and in a lot of pain post-op because the nurse was totally freaked out about dealing with stomas so I had to do it all by myself. They even left the room so it's a good thing I didn't pass out or fall!

[@terrifiorelli9819]

So sorry.

[@tchili1]

I'm so sorry you were treated that way. She not only acted unprofessional but didn't show you any compassion when you needed it most. As a former ICU RN, that should never happen and we always changed the ostomy or helped the patient as much as they were comfortable with or did it all for them while educating them when they were well enough.

[@olguiortiz3687]

I wish my OWC nurses knew all this when I had an emergency ileostomy and years later my permanent ostomy. Thank you for doing this video. I really hope it reaches as many nurses as possible!!!!!

[@karendeakin9628]

I’ve worked in geriatric care most my nursing career and often did stoma care could be difficult as it was often very hard for them to accept it or physically couldn’t care for themselves thanks for this video it’s important for all concerned

[@anitanoel283]

I had mine for a year because of Crohn's disease back in the 1970s.I had emergency exploratory surgery after being very sick For a long time.Praise God I'm turning 70 in a months and doing quite well.

[@carylpark7192]

Such an incredible young woman explaining what can be a very traumatic operation. So educationally helpful.

[@Azira_Amane]

As a student nurse whose first placement was on a colorectal surgery ward, thank you for sharing your experiences.

[@Raist3db]

Hi, I am diabetic but do not have issues that require an ostomy. But wanted to stop by because was curious about colostomy, etc. and wanted to commend you for being so straight forward sharing your condition and cleaning/changing bag, etc. Kudos for the great service and example you provide for those who may undergo the procedure.

[@carolboyd8805]

27 years ago I had a colostomy and I will never forget the first removal of my bag. It was almost as if the specialist nurse enjoyed ripping the bag away from my skin with no removal adhesive to help. I could feel myself going into a faint. Then she made a joke of how much money I would save on toilet rolls. I thank god that I was changed to antrim area where the stoma nurses were angels. Anything I wanted or needed was given and my dignity was respected. Then I had a delivery nurse who came with goodies in her car. She held all bags etc up in full view of my neighbours. What made it worse was I was having trouble with my bladder as well. So protective knickers were held up for viewing as well. I have just moved and need to be in contact with a colostomy nurse once more. Now at 76 I would not accept anything only the best care. My privacy will be of the utmost importance. I have a company called respond who are 5 stars for sending me supplies. I will expect 5 stars from my new stoma nurse. Any out there in n.ireland I will be seeing you soon. When you are attending lectures etc. Talk about my first experience as I still have nightmares about it.

[@davidayers2486]

I’ve had my stoma since 2005 It’s a big life change We need more people like you to share in order to help during this difficult time in there life Information is the key

[@808lublabs4]

As a double ostomy patient, I thank you for sharing this. A lot of people have no idea what it is and I hope this helps other people possibly contemplating getting this done to know that it’s not the end of life. Life can go on and aside from the exercise of emptying or replacing your bags life is pretty normal. Having the double ostomy was actually a significant improvement over what I was dealing with before.

[@cindymolesky3492]

You are incredibly brave to do these videos. It is such a highly personal subject most people wouldn't share details with their best friend. To be so open & accepting is a gift ❤️.

[@judytaylor3099]

Thank you very much for this video. I had my surgery four years ago and at first I was fearful and angry. I also felt dirty, but I changed my attitude and started being thankful and it helped me with all of those negative feelings. I’m still learning how to deal with everything. This video is really helpful. Thank you again.

[@GretaVanFleetMakesMeComplete]

I've been watching a lot of your vids because my dad is going to be getting his colon removed somewhat soon, and will be having an ostomy bag as well, and I had my dad check you out as well, and I'm glad I have and will continue to get knowledge to help my dad:)

[@dannyd4339]

Man this brings me back. I almost offed myself from the depression it came with my illiostomy. Luckily I got it reversed two years later. It was insanely bad on my self esteem. Specially when the bag leaked or gas got thorough it. Ruined my social life and my work at the time.

[@yolirivera51853]

Thank you for addressing the patient who wants to force others to do the ostomy change. My mother passed but I couldn’t do that one thing, don’t know why I was traumatized

[@tumbleina]

I’ve been watching you for months and found out my son needs an colostomy last week. The timing is fantastic, thank you

[@joeindustry]

@tumbleina, now that your son has had his colostomy for a year - how is he doing with it? Both mentally and physically.

[@mhlevy]

As someone who's followed you for many years now, your videos have always been incredibly helpful and so educational, in that I learned most of my self-care from your videos. Over the years, anytime I met someone who had a new ostomy, I would give them your website info. Thank you very much for all you do, for all of us!

[@katiea7101]

You are definitely a blessing for ones just getting a stoma and for those of us that have dealt with them for awhile. I watch your videos because they are both entertaining and educational. I was originally diagnosed with UC, I've also been told that I have Chrones along with IBD & Short gut syndrome. Life's been a blast. Some people are surprised when I laugh about some of my health issues but I tell them I have to laugh otherwise I'd probably never stop crying 😅 love you, God bless you and keep on motivating everyone dealing with these awful diseases.

[@Anthraxb0mb]

Watching because it was suggested on my homepage. Didn’t expect to see this, but it is interesting. The reason I’m commenting however, is because of the wonderful ad that popped up at 10:45. A great thing to hear right after “when we think about gravity and an active stoma, if you’re lying down it’s going to come out onto the skin.” [Insert ad for Keebler FUDGE COOKIES]

[@truthseeker7086]

You are so on fire, not allowing that to mess with your life, that is fantastic, my sister went through the same deal only she had "colon cancer" she had a name for her friend, and I can tell that it really bothered her, she is no longer with us, and I miss her so much. I just love your enthusiasm and your even encouraging others, that is so cool. Keep on keeping on my friend, GOD bless you.

[@ThreeAcreHomestead]

I am sooo proud of your videos and helping others with stomas. Thank you for teaching.

[@QueenMuva]

I don't have any of these issues, however your content is educational and amazing. You're appreciated for all you're doing

[@Chavacandraw]

Great video. This normalizes it so much. Imagination is worse than real life, in this, at least.

[@58unclesam]

You are a very strong young woman and I can see where your videos would such benefit to people who’ve had this procedure! God Bless!

[@johnparry2918]

When I got my stoma the WOCN would come in and change everything while I was laying down. When I got home I just assumed that laying down was the normal way to do this. Can I just say my wife became upset as I was laying down on the bed and she was concerned we would have a mess to clean up. I was fortunate to have a friend that had her stoma for 20 years. I asked her about this and she set me to right and to change my appliance in the bathroom standing up. The point of this story is that if you are a nurse taking care of ostomies in the hospital please tell your patients that can not to change their appliance while laying in bed. My wife and I laughed about this afterward

[@bcaye]

This content is great. A couple of years ago I drove to get my brother after he had an emergency tracheostomy due to newly diagnosed throat cancer. I'm a respiratory therapist and he was very overwhelmed, not ready to be discharged. After discussion, I realized he did not understand his stoma or know how to care for it. Nothing had been done other than changing the gauze dressing. After I showed him exactly how everything worked and how he could take care of it, his fears evaporated and he was very happy to go home. Something so simple that I would have been telling any patient and any of their family from the beginning. I also showed both himself and my father how to use an AMBU because if you can do that, you're always good.

[@edball4906]

THIS CONTERNT IS GREAT A COUPLE

[@rnstoo1]

I am an ostomate for last 13 years complete with proctocolectomy due to ulcerative colitis. You are the BEST!!

[@bb-od9ku]

You are just an angel 😇💖

[@stellaboeta2137]

I appleade you for having the courage to enlighten people on this subject. thank you.

[@lisaazzano1811]

Thank you for sharing a subject that most people wouldn't share. I'm so glad they were able to help you so you can live a productive happy life 💖

[@ms_katia2267]

I have never seen an astomy before this was so educational.

[@drouinjohnny9036]

I’m a nurse…..work 15 years in post abdominal surgery…..now working in dialysis……celebrating 25 years of working….❤❤❤

[@kristinasweeney494]

There is a little 13 year old girl that our church is praying for because she was recently diagnosed with crohn's disease. I never really knew the severity of it until I watched your video. You are very brave, beautiful, and strong.

[@Wookie_Cookie_2014]

*@LetsTalkIBD:* Hi again, Maggie! I'm so thankful that you are helping to educate more than just people with our types of illnesses, but you are also teaching more nurses, doctors, 👩‍⚕🧑‍⚕👨‍⚕ caregivers, families 👨‍👩‍👦 and even just curious people about stoma care, ostomy changes, etc.-- along with giving some ideas of what Ostomates deal with every single day. You share a bit of what some people experience with chronic illnesses and even pain. You have the unique perspective as a nurse, as well as a patient. Though I would never, ever wish that perspective on anyone, I believe that many of us are able to relate and share our experiences with you and others while we are also learning from what you do so naturally. You are bringing everyone together so we are not so alone anymore. Now that I'm firmly entrenched in your channel I can forward all of my own doctors, nurses/CNAs, and WOCN's, etc. to you! Bless you! Seriously, no joke, every time I'm in the hospital my nurses-- and even the WOCN's several years ago-- are always asking if they can watch and/or help with my appliance and/or bag changes because they have little or no knowledge but wish to learn. To be fair to them, I really think there wasn't much training for any of them back then, and even most of them nowadays. The younger the nurse, the more likely they are to have been taught at least the "basics." It was really, *_really,_* hard for me, especially in the beginning so long ago, to let anyone watch and/or help me-- somehow I felt like a "complete freak"; a horribly alone "freak" back then... especially about something that feels so very personal and private. 😞 In all honesty, it was even worse with the younger male nurses. 😳 I was, and still am, seriously too old 👵, have children in their age group 👶👶👶👶👶, and am too happily married to really care, but I did care. 🤣 Again, seriously, I was so not used to having *_me_* lead *_them._* Strangely, I felt intimidated by that rather than empowered. *_So, let's all share a couple of "funny/or not so funny experiences:_* When I was discharged after my "Big Surgery-- that sounded far less "foreign" or "isolating", than "Proctocolectomy" because by that time I'd had *_many_* surgeries, this was just a "big one-- I had to learn virtually *_everything_* on my own because there were literally no people to help me in my home town at that time. The nurses where I'd had my surgery (Denver) had tried to show me as best as they could, but they were seriously overworked with the nurse/patient ratio, so almost all of the "education" I've ever had was self taught with" trial and error". When starting out on this dizzying rollercoaster ride on my own, I had *SO* many products (!!!) until I learned *_"less really is more!"_* I must have had, or tried every single product that there is, lol. What a "newbie" I was. One time, when I had nearly died (again) from sepsis, I "woke up" (I call them my 'infection hazes'-- you know, not all "there"?) and immediately realized that I had *2 ostomy bags...* (no joke!!!), with one tucked into another over my very inflamed and angry stoma!!... to say that I panicked at first is a serious understatement! To this day I still don't know how exactly the nurse(es) had accomplished *_that!_* I was shaking so hard while taking them off to pay much attention how! To be fair about our hometown nurses, I'd had my Proctocolectomy done in Denver, several hundred miles away so that I could have a GI surgeon because there was not another any closer. For the most part I don't think I ever had many ostomy experienced medical staff until the last decade or so. Oh, my. I wrote a novella! My apologies! Take care and be safe Maggie, Zak, and everyone else. ~Peace!

[@rexvaraug6071]

Major respect for being able to handle that cheerfully for over 13 years. If it was me, i would have teken a lethal injection over a stoma any day. Even if i needed it i would refuse. So major respect

[@grantclarkson9184]

I wish you were sharing this information 13 years ago when I had a bag. Thank you.

[@lennybustratt7024]

Found you now and I love your content so much. I used to know a girl with a stoma. She had some problems when she went to the restroom, actually. She hated it when her helper was going to help her and all that, I don't know why, I was a child, she was a child... I think it was shame though. Haven't seen her for years, hope she is living a great life nowadays. She deserves it.

[@shp12]

I am so proud of your strength courage and love. Thank you for being you.

[@alexsie3012]

You are a wonderful person. This video can’t have been easy but you aced it! Well done.

[@playadremingrl]

Beautiful inside and out. I always wondered about these surgeries. Thank you for sharing so openly.

[@dopeymark]

I'm facing surgery... And I am terrified. I don't even know where to begin with my fears. I guess I am happy that I found your channel.

[@tamieholmes1725]

Non protruding stoma classes is a must learn

[@user-iz3dg9qh8b]

I'm 70,..... Just had my 1st colonoscopy. Always had a bit of trouble going, this is very informative as a good to know type of thing. Thanks for your professionalism.

[@wandadavis2468]

You are an amazing teacher and person!

[@kristinenickley1755]

Thank you very much for this video, my Grampa had a stoma from peritonitis. He did have it reversed...but at the time he was a very sick man. After the reversal, he lived another I would say 12 yrs, & he did not die from anything to do with the stoma. Great video.

[@JamieNewell-hl7yg]

Wow... they always told me that I was allergic to the bag when I was experiencing severe escoriation around it..... you've just taught me that I was probably leaking around the bag under the tape also. Thank God my bag is gone!

[@julesl4525]

Your skin integrity is fabulous. Love your videos-- they are so valuable. Thank you.

[@LadiiieS]

I have a temporary ostomy and I couldnt look at my stoma or even the bag for the first couple of days. I was grossed out and didnt want to touch it. Im a bit better now (2.5 weeks post op) but I still dont like to manage it. I'm counting the days until my reversal. Leaks also made things extra difficult but now that I'm using the proper bag and changing the bag at the proper time it's become less stressful. Side note, the stoma genie is great for managing leaks while changing the bag!

[@QueenNoTeetha151]

I feel like I would be like this. Does it hurt really bad for long after surgery?

[@LadiiieS]

@@QueenNoTeetha151 Hi! The first month was the hardest and it was about 4 weeks give or take before I could do things for myself and move around without losing my breath. I still had some pain and needed to be gentle with my movements. By the end of month 2 I was feeling great and I could finally cough + sneeze without pain and even lay on my stomach but still needed to be gentle so I wouldn't cause too much pain or issues. I also had intestinal scarring which made it difficult to breathe and move in certain angles but that eventually went away. By the end of month 3 I finally felt as close as possible to myself again and was able to move around like normal. Everyone's experience is different though and personally, it was much more challenging to deal with mentally vs physically. Reversal is def a much easier recovery.

[@QueenNoTeetha151]

@@LadiiieS Ty. You give me hope!

[@Jombi1950]

I just love you! Your so real and down to earth. Keep helping people as you are so good at not panicking and how life can go on.

[@barbarashepherd2834]

So happy I found your channel. I had an osteomy a year ago and need extra tips!

[@ChrisH930S]

As a CRS I’m happy you’re doing this. Very helpful for my patients.

[@antoniomedeiros3378]

Thank you for putting out these videos. In my 30s I had an ileostomy and had it for years until I was 40 when I was luck enough to have it reversed through the "J-pouch procedure". I'm 55 now but still have occasional flashbacks of my life back then. It's a super traumatic experience and few understand what it's like to go through; you always feel alone and like no one understands what you are going through. So, again, thank you for putting these educational videos out there and keep going.

[@kathryn2826]

I use Colonmagix insert disposable bags, and wow what a difference, no mess no fuzz. Look it up !

[@cidie1]

Just came across this video and you are amazing. I don't know anyone with a stoma but I can imagine it is a difficult thing for many, thanks for helping remove the stigma for others!

[@mizfrenchtwist]

hello , good on you............people are so fortunate to have you , on youtube , to refer to 😊😊😊😊 . keep up the good work , all the very best . great share , thank you , for sharing.....

[@donnapagano7217]

God Bless you for doing this for others going through what you are. 😊🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@paulamorris9497]

Thank you Maggie you are helping me so much as I'm facing stoma surgery in the next few months and you are helping me prepare I'm so grateful to you from the UK xxx

[@robertlauzon6413]

God bless people like. You for helping others.

[@MemphisBelle291]

respect to you that you talk so open about it, I consider that highly important for those who need to deal with it, thx for sharing

[@ibdandme]

Thank you so much Maggie, i never get tired of your videos. Thank you for this information. When I got my 2nd stoma, this time a ileostomy, in May last year, all of your advise and knowledge helped me so much. Senxing lots of hugs 💐 💐 💐 💐 💐

[@thomniced]

You are so brave. I have the same scar...even no belly button. Nice to see someone who can relate.

[@clarewhite3004]

Nurses: Don't stand in front of an open stoma! Me, a respiratory therapist: Don't stand in front of an open trach!

[@VioletSmeiska]

I never knew this was a thing until I watched this

[@division17]

Great job ... very informative. Your confidence is fantastic.

[@astrasbizzirri6086]

As a student nurse, I want to say thank you for sharing your experience and in-depth clinical knowledge on this topic. I had previously looked at multiple vids regarding stoma care & pouch changes for the 1 piece system. Your video has definitely given me more confidence, whereas previously I wasn't feeling very confident about the application of the 1 piece pouch system. I've only had exposure to the 2 piece pouch system, which has less steps than the 1 piece system, on an acute clinical placement in a hospital. I really appreciate you, your personal & clinical experience.

[@janetmitchell7865]

I love how you are so honest and real about this as my very best friend was shot and had to have an ostomy. Later she had it reversed but I remember going thru the trauma of all this with her and she stayed so strong

[@joannejones9978]

I think you are amazing, I've had a stoma for 24 years now, still have off days, so thank you... 🇬🇧

[@herbert5491]

Thank you for your so clear descriptions and explanations

[@claytonsimplot9554]

I had a temporary ostomy,the surgeon put my stoma below my waistline making it nearly impossible for me to change. It broke loose at least once a week,crap all overthe bed or whatever room I was in. I had to wear sweatpants for two months. They were the only pants that had enuogh space for the bag. At least you're able to see and change yours. I had to have help. You're handling it alot better than I did. Keep up the positive attitude.

[@peggystoutemorin4529]

I don't know how I got here, but she is amazing! She is a great teacher, and I'm sure she's a wonderful nurse. She handled a subject most people would be uncomfortable with with a lot of skill. I learned something today. Thank you!

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Thank you so much!! 🩷

[@RECrowned]

This was awesome to watch, now i know what my grandpa is going through, thank you.

[@loretta_3843]

My father didn't have a stoma, but before he passed and was in hospital (he had complications with prostate cancer), there were some times when he had accidents and couldn't control his bowels well. I remember him getting all emotional at how wonderful the nurses were at helping him clean up etc. They never made him feel like a burden and he was one of those really reserved types that NEVER asked for help. Thanks for the work you've done (and any other nurses/carers out there). I'm always amazed at how nurses make you feel like you're not just another "number" - I don't know where you find the patience (no pun intended!) Just wanted to say that you're so right to talk about how to deal with aspects that haven't got much to do with the mechanics of care but the emotional side😊

[@graywolf2694]

your video just popped up in my feed, none of this applies to me but it was still interesting and I liked how well you explained everything, I was always curious how they worked. Mad respect for making this video.

[@JimTimber]

Hats off that you are a nurse sweetie !..massive respect to you !!

[@Hfxracing]

I know this is a older video but I got my Ostmy back in December of 2022 and really struggled the first few month's changing the bag & the daliy Care that goes into it. Your video's relly helped & boosted my confindace in living with my Ostmy Thank You so much!! I am a male and its a little different for me but some of your tips have been so helpful. It has been a comfort knowing I am not alone. I can't say thank you enough!!

[@bleo8371]

Impressive video, first time i see this in two decades on internet . . this is special i hope people will learn more about these things . . its something they dont show in TV or schools.. but its needed to share

[@janetmitchell7865]

Bless your heart for sharing this with us.....now I know exactly what my my girlfriend dealt with even tho she never complained

[@tonyclack5901]

Very brave of you and thank you for sharing.

[@hoochlily]

You are awsome - I do not have a stoma, but imagine if I had, I would be emmensely thankful to watch your video.

[@lagarttemido]

Thank you for sharing with us your experience and knowledge. I'm sure it helps many people.