For years following my 1964 surgery, I used a United appliance that compared to what I wear now as a Model T compares to a Lexus. It had a rubber-coated, malleable metal piece that went 'round my stoma and attached to my skin after I brushed on some sticky, white cement (called Skin Bond) that would later have to be removed with an alcohol-based solvent. The attached bag was rubber (or a rubberlike material) and I had a pair of them, one being worn and the other hanging in the bathroom to dry following removal and cleansing. It probably weighed 30 times as much as the disposable two-piece Hollister I'm wearing now. ** After attaching the appliance with the Skin Bond, I had to bind it all down with surgical tape around the face plate for security. It often was what gave me just enough time to get home to my bathroom when the inevitable leaks occurred. ** Removal of the appliance & attachment of the clean one was a clumsy process, with cleansing of the skin being particularly time-consuming. I averaged 45 to 75 minutes in the bathroom for this chore. These days I'm in & out in 15 minutes. ** Naturally, with the weight involved, a belt was absolutely necessary & I hated it with a passion. Now, with such lightweight ostomy items, I don't have to bother with a belt. ** Progress can be wonderful, of course, but sometimes it comes too late. I see adds on TV these days for medication that supposedly can arrest ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease. I had U.C. but, in '64, they had no medications for it. Onward and upward...
Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 33,090 members. Get inside and you will see.
We're not all about ostomy. Everything is being discussed in the forums.
It's a very special community, embracing all ages and backgrounds. People are honest and truly care.
Privacy is very important - the website has many features that are only visible to members.
Create an account and you will be amazed.
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Hollister
Are you a caregiver for a child with an ostomy? In the summer months, this can become more challenging, thanks to heat, humidity, water activities, and travel plans.
Learn more about caring for children with an ostomy on vacation.
Learn more about caring for children with an ostomy on vacation.
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Hollister
You've checked off everything on your travel checklist. So, now it's time to pack your ostomy supplies and anything else you need. Do it the right way with these smart tips.