This topic is about someone who has been having a tough week dealing with multiple ostomy appliance failures, skin issues, and sleep problems. They're looking for some positivity and practical solutions to help manage these challenges. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

- The person has had to change their ostomy appliance five times in seven days due to leaks, which has been painful and exhausting. They are also dealing with extra work assignments, everyday annoyances, and no success on dating sites. They are seeking upbeat stories or humor from fellow ostomates to regain perspective.

- They are experiencing rashes on their right thigh, lower right abdomen, and right shoulder, possibly due to an allergic reaction to a product used in the past. The current flange adhesion is complicated by a draining abdominal wound and an uneven scar near the stoma.

- Their current routine involves using various products like medical spray adhesive, skin-barrier wipes and spray, Eakin seal, Hollister putty, Sure-Seal ring, and Tegaderm tape, which are changed every two days. This routine is costly and further irritates the skin. They hope a plastic surgeon can help improve the adhesion during upcoming surgery.

Here are some practical tips and advice:

1. If repeated leaks are damaging the skin around the stoma:
- Contact a stoma nurse for specialized care and product changes.
- Consider leaving the appliance off overnight if necessary, protecting the bed with towels, and seeing the stoma nurse in the morning.

2. To reduce the frequency of changes and leaks:
- Try "new-skin" one-piece pouches from Cy-Med Corp, which some users find effective for up to eight days.
- Request samples of alternative products from suppliers to find what works best.
- Use a belt-supported pouch or a pouch without peripheral tape if adhesives are causing skin irritation.

3. For skin care and adhesion:
- Use products like Eakin cohesive seals, Hollister Adapt putty, Sure-Seal rings, Tegaderm tape, and barrier wipes/spray.

4. To boost mood and cope with stress:
- Watch uplifting movies like "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel."
- Listen to favorite songs and relaxation tracks.
- Use aromatherapy with scented candles for quick relaxation.
- Engage in creative activities like knitting or coloring.
- Use funky wigs, play games on a mobile phone, and enjoy light humor to stay positive.

5. General encouragement:
- Venting to fellow ostomates is healthy, and the community is always there for support.
- Remember that even the toughest days will pass, and skin usually heals once leaks are managed.