The topic at hand is about whether naming your stoma is a helpful way to cope or just a silly act of giving human traits to something non-human. A stoma is an opening created during surgery to allow waste to leave the body, and for some, giving it a name can be a way to deal with the changes it brings to their lives.
Here are some insights and advice shared by people on this topic:
1. Coping and Acceptance
- Some people find that naming their stoma helps them accept it, likening it to a "new, demanding child" that eventually becomes part of their routine. Others prefer not to name it, seeing it as just another body part.
- One person described their stoma as an "organic prosthesis," which helped them accept it without needing to give it a name.
2. Practical Use of a Name
- Having a name for your stoma can be useful in social situations. For example, you can discreetly say, "Suzy is acting up," if you need to excuse yourself, without drawing too much attention.
3. Individual Choice
- The general consensus is that whether or not to name your stoma is a personal decision. It doesn't affect others, so it's up to each individual to decide what works best for them.
4. Historical Context
- There are rumors or confirmations of famous people who had ostomies, such as Dwight Eisenhower, Fred Astaire, and Bob Hope. Napoleon, however, almost certainly did not have one.
- In the past, before commercial systems were available, people reportedly used items like goat bladders as appliances.
5. Common Experiences and Humor
- Many people use descriptive or humorous nicknames for their stomas, such as "Lancelot," "Bruce," or "Vesuvius." Even those who don't like naming their stoma admit to using some choice words when dealing with leaks or other issues.
In the end, whether you choose to name your stoma or not, it's all about finding what helps you cope and feel comfortable with your situation.
See full discusison