This topic is about creating homemade solutions for colostomy covers that can be used during swimming, showering, and intimate moments, all while being budget-friendly. A 71-year-old from Ohio shares their innovative ideas, which are particularly useful for those without medical insurance. Here are some of the creative solutions and insights shared:

- For swimming and showering:
- A hard plastic #1 Rubbermaid bowl is used as a protective shield over the wafer and a rolled-up, emptied pouch.
- A custom stainless-steel ring made from .030" welding wire, with two ½" side loops, is used to secure the bowl.
- An adjustable fabric belt, repurposed from a purse or carry-all strap with snap clasps (available for about $3 at Walmart), clips to the loops and holds the bowl snugly around the waist.
- Twisting the bowl slightly helps move body hair aside, creating a better seal against the skin.
- Wearing a long T-shirt makes the pouch invisible at the pool, and showering is no longer limited by concerns about wetting the appliance.

- For intimacy:
- A wide elastic band is used, which currently needs to be stepped into or pulled over the head. The couple is working on redesigning it with Velcro for easier use and better adjustability.
- The aim is to create a dual-purpose garment with an attractive outer fabric for discretion and an inner pocket to hold the protective bowl, making it suitable for both private moments and pool use.

The poster highlights the creativity that comes from necessity and the daily appreciation of life that can be gained through the ostomy experience.

Additional insights include a question about whether other ostomates routinely empty their pouch by opening it over the toilet, as instructed.

One member, who has lived with a colostomy for 10 years, shares that even at age 82, they "will never get used to the bag," pointing out that both emotional and practical adjustments can remain challenging over time.