This topic is about a person who had a fall while carrying groceries and how her ostomy pouch surprisingly helped cushion the impact. She slipped on a step without a handrail and fell onto her left side, where her ostomy pouch is located. Fortunately, the pouch had some air in it, which acted like a cushion, keeping her stoma safe. Although she ended up with some bruises and soreness, she humorously referred to this as being protected by an "ostomy angel."

Here are some helpful tips and insights from this experience:

1. Keep a small amount of air in your ostomy pouch. This can serve as a protective "airbag" in case of unexpected falls or impacts.

2. Regularly empty your pouch to keep it light, aiming for it to be no more than one-third full. This reduces strain while still allowing some air for cushioning.

3. Use available supports when navigating stairs:
- Hold onto the banister or lean against a wall for stability.
- If there are no handrails, consider installing them as a DIY project for added safety.

4. If you have balance issues:
- Wear shoes and trousers in a way that prevents fabric from catching, such as tucking pant legs into socks.
- Ensure good lighting and avoid carrying items that obstruct your view of potential obstacles.

5. Understand that occasional bumps and falls are normal. Most stomas are resilient, and minor bleeding usually resolves quickly.

6. Always move cautiously, especially if you experience vertigo or are recovering from surgery. Prioritize safety to protect both your body and your ostomy appliance.