Is it really only 11 days since the operation which left me with this delightful belated Christmas present? It feels like 11 years! Still, I did wake up this morning and actually forgot I'd got the bag until it decided to remind me with one of its disgusting bubbly gurgles, curse it. I do wish its output would 'firm up' because I'm getting heartily sick of this repulsive, stinking liquid noisily pumping itself from my midriff with dreary regularity. The stench is so foul during changes that I have to breathe through my mouth to stop me gagging and the various sprays I've been given are neither use nor ornament. Even our chicken coop smells better than the bloody bathroom does after I've been in it! Another problem (as if I hadn't got enough) is that the skin around the stoma has become red and inflamed, despite my care at cleaning around it. I think it's the wipes that the stoma supplies company sent, it was okay until I started using them, so from today I've started to use the water spray and tissues for cleaning instead.
We went out yesterday to buy a more aesthetically pleasing container for the mountain of stoma-related 'goodies' which has swamped the bathroom since my discharge from hospital. I'm sorry, but a nasty, shiny, battered white box with stuff crammed in any old how just won't cut it, dear me no. We now have a lovely canvas-covered box in calm pastel stripes, reminiscent of deckchairs and summertime rather than screaming "Someone with a colostomy lives here!"
I was quite exhausted when we got home and every bump in the road was very uncomfortable, despite the spouse's care and attention in driving. Saturday wasn't really a good choice of day to hit the shops, everywhere was full of frenzied idiots going berserk in case they were missing out on a tuppence discount in the sales. Of course, there were screaming, out-of-control kids running around everywhere too, not looking where they were going and totally careless about crashing into people, which I found rather alarming. I shuffled round with my walking stick and my other hand across my middle like a half-shut knife in case one of the horrible little sods collided with me, but it was like hell on earth. Maybe it's just me being a grumpy, post-operative old bag, but in the UK today it seems that parents don't think it's their responsibility to control and discipline their children in public places in order to prevent them being a damn nuisance and a menace to others. As long as their little darlings are out of their hair and not causing them any bother, they couldn't give a stuff how much they annoy everyone else. I blame Supernanny- never mind the bloody naughty step, clip the little bugger round the ear!
So .... another quiet day on the settee popping painkillers, drinking water, and reading the Sunday papers. The District Nurse is coming tomorrow morning to take out my operation clips - oh joy! I shouldn't moan really, the wound, which is huge and looks like a railway line, has healed very well indeed with no problems, infections, weeping, etc. so I should be thankful for that.
Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 33,466 members. Get inside and you will see.
It's not all about ostomy. Everything is being discussed.
Many come here for advice or to give advice 🗣, others have found good friends 🤗, and there are also those who have found love 💓. Most of all, 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.
Advertisement
Hollister
When traveling, you need to pay special attention to your unique needs, issues, and potential hazards.
Learn about special travel considerations for your ostomy type, so you can be worry-free.
Learn about special travel considerations for your ostomy type, so you can be worry-free.
Advertisement
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.