Once a year, I get invited to a local ostomy exhibition, arranged by my two local hospital stoma departments, stoma nurses, appliance manufacturers, and suppliers.
Knowing there is not a lot for me there as I have all my appliances and supplies sorted, I go to see what new innovations are about and have a look at the support wear, underwear, and swimwear stands, to get some ideas.
Then I scoot around all the stalls giving away freebies and goody bags. It's amazing what they put in them: deodorants, wipes, sprays, wafer reinforcing tape, etc.
On this occasion, I bumped into my old stoma nurse, who attended to me after my urostomy operation. We had a chat, and she said how well I was looking and how nice it was to see me. Also, if I needed a stoma or appliance review, to pop into the hospital and see her (and the other two nurses I got to know).
In passing, I mentioned to her ostomy websites. Her comment was, "For goodness' sake, unless you want to be terminally depressed, stay away from ostomy sites; they are for the lonely and misinformed. Some of the people on those sites are their own worst enemies."
I said nothing and wished her a good day.

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Hollister
Ostomy surgery is stressful both for the patient and the caregiver, and creates a major life change for both people in a relationship.
Learn how to care for your loved one, while still taking care of yourself.
Learn how to care for your loved one, while still taking care of yourself.
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Hollister
Your stoma care nurse can be a valuable resource when you need help.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.