One time while going through security at San Francisco Airport on a 12/14-hour flight to Ireland, the security/TSA guy was being an a**hole. Usually, I wipe my hand over the exterior clothes, they wipe a swab cloth over my hand, stick the swab in the scanner, and off I go...usually. This smartass brought me to a room for a search (using me for training purposes and wasting everyone's time). He went off and left me "supervised"...by another guy. I unzipped and dropped my drawers, lifted up my shirt, and told him, "This is an Ostomy, do you get it now, do you know what this is?? Well, if you didn't, you do now, this is how I shit these days, I can open it if you don't mind the stinky smell??"
He turned bright red and didn't know where to look, he was so embarrassed he was shuffling his feet and wanted to get out of there. No...nooo need to see it "aaaa...aaaa..he was speechless. The other guy knew what it was and was disrupting my day and being a p***k.
I finally leave the room when the other guy comes back. My carry-on and backpack were empty and the contents strewn on a table in the public area, my change of clothes, extra supplies dumped and the guy says, "You can go now." Fifteen minutes to repack all my stuff. When they stop you for any reason they can add an hour to your security check.
They should have been ashamed of their behavior, not me. This was a few years ago, never had a problem since. Now I go to the beach with my Baggy blowing in the wind, no shirt or shame and any funny looks get an extra close-up view of my Bag. Nobody seems to notice it or care in Ireland or in California.
Be proud of your scars and your new "Plastic Colon"...you have paid your dues in pain and suffering to stay alive. Your Baggie is a Badge of Courage, wear it proudly, wear it openly at the beach, etc...Familiarity breeds acceptance and understanding!!
I would bet that the TSA guy will not abuse his authority like that again...maybe?? Some people are just too dense to learn but most are cool.
PS: Never argue with a TSA agent, a pointless exercise, in that security line that person has the authority/ability to ruin your whole day so always be polite...or you will end up missing your flight.
Security is much easier now, they have proper training to deal with medical issues. Don't be afraid to fly...except for the tiny seats all is good!!!
Magoo ??????