For many years, I was either unable to travel or suffered with Crohn's while traveling. Two weeks ago, I took my first vacation with an ostomy and was able to enjoy my time away. Not only a vacation, but a vacation at Disney/Universal with a ton of walking, rides, and all kinds of food. I did have some anxiety to start with, but it turned out to be misplaced. It was such a great feeling to be able to be present for my niece and my family—something that I hadn't been able to do in a long time. I had to be extra careful to make sure I didn't get dehydrated given the heat and activity level, but it wasn't too hard to manage. I also learned that if going through security, make sure you tuck in the ostomy belt to avoid questions. It wasn't that big of a deal, but it's annoying having to explain it to someone when you're in line to get on a roller coaster. (TSA wasn't a problem, but Universal has screenings before getting on some of the rides.) This trip makes me wish I'd gotten the ostomy sooner :-)
Glad you enjoyed the freedom an ostomy provided. Not sure if I'd attempt a roller coaster with my colostomy. 😉
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It's the best feeling, isn't it? Finally feeling healthy and able to enjoy life again. I had an ileostomy 17 years ago after several years of Crohn's; I also wish I had it done sooner.
Thank you for your positive post! 😊
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Sounds like you had a blast! I'm so glad you took a chance and had fun. Well done! I hope I can travel too; at the moment, I'm a bit nervous to do so, but I have a hot air ballooning trip planned for late next year. I wonder how that will affect the colostomy?
Hi. You will be able to travel. Just a year ago, I traveled from the States to your beautiful Australia. Don't let being an Ostomate define who you are. Enjoy and make every day count 🍷🌈
Hot air ballooning will have absolutely no effect at all, just like air travel or even skydiving (see the below post) - zero effect.
I know of an adventurous lass in Queensland who regularly has amazing trips with an ostomy, and funnily enough, she is a nudist. She has even done hot air ballooning naked, so the bag was definitely swinging free!
https://www.meetanostomate.org/discussion-forum/viewtopic.php?t=36427
First trip was scary. Got easier after. I have PreCheck TSA, no problem. I keep my shoes on. I've been to Disney World & Universal (my fav). I would ignore their checking. None of their business. Bet you felt FREEDOM! My first trip was by car, afraid to take my "little buddy" on a jet. I felt the wind & sun on my face & forgot all about my ostomy!
FREEDOM!
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