This topic is about the concerns ostomy travelers have when going through airport security, especially after an incident involving Dr. Thomas Sawyer. Dr. Sawyer, a bladder-cancer survivor with a urostomy, experienced a rough pat-down by a TSA agent, which caused his pouch to rupture. This incident has raised worries about how new security measures might affect those with ostomy appliances. Here are some helpful tips and insights for ostomy travelers:

- Before traveling, review the TSA rules for travelers with disabilities or medical devices. You can find this information on the TSA's "Travelers With Disabilities & Medical Conditions" page. It's a good idea to print this out and carry it with you to the checkpoint.

- When booking your flight or checking in online, fill out the optional TSA disability/assistive-device information form. Some travelers have found that this helps them avoid issues at the airport.

- At the security checkpoint, voluntarily inform the officer that you have an ostomy pouch. If asked, show it discreetly. Many travelers have found that this helps them pass through security more smoothly.

- If you set off an alarm, you can request:
1. A same-sex agent to assist you.
2. A private screening room for more privacy.
3. To perform your own pat-down of the stoma area if possible.

- Be assertive during the screening process. If you feel a search is inappropriate, tell the agent to stop, ask for a supervisor or local police, and mention your civil rights. Remember, even police pat-downs avoid genital contact and are conducted by gender-matched officers.

- One traveler managed to avoid further hassle by lifting his shirt and showing his pouch in public, which quickly ended the interrogation. However, this should be considered a last resort.

- If the screening process feels too intrusive or stressful, consider alternative travel options like driving or taking a cruise.

- Community members are looking for ways to support formal complaints and petitions related to Dr. Sawyer's incident. Keep an eye on news sources like RawStory, ABC, and UOAA e-blasts for updates.