Imagine you're planning an exciting surf trip to Nicaragua with your teenage daughter. You're 52 and have an ostomy, and you're wondering how to keep everything secure during those three-hour surf lessons in the ocean. You'll be wearing board shorts, and there won't be any beachside bathrooms, so it's important to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips and insights to make your adventure as smooth as possible:

1. Salt water can actually help your wafer stick better. Many people with ostomies have no trouble swimming or snorkeling for hours.

2. Pack a small "beach kit" with essentials like wipes, plastic or diaper bags for discreet emptying or disposal, an extra wafer or pouch, and some tape for added security.

3. Consider taping around the edges of your wafer or using a full wrap of sports tape for extra hold. Some people also wear stretch underwear under their board shorts for added confidence.

4. To minimize output, try eating lightly the night before your water activities. You might also want to use strategies recommended by ET nurses for activities like skydiving or long boat trips.

5. While cold water is generally fine, be cautious with very hot water (like hot tubs) or extremely salty water (such as the Dead Sea), as these can loosen the seal later. Keep supplies handy for changes.

6. If gas builds up in your pouch, find a private spot to "burp" it as needed.

7. A fellow traveler in Nicaragua suggests bringing a travel kit that includes:
- Wafers and bags
- Small bottles of alcohol and peroxide for cleaning around the stoma
- Wet wipes and plastic disposal bags
- A scalpel for cutting wafers
- 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Spray
- ConvaTec Stomahesive paste
- Hold the new wafer in place for at least 30 seconds to ensure it sticks well

8. When flying, TSA experiences can vary, so be prepared for anything and keep your supplies easily accessible.

9. Remember, age is just a number. Many people in their 60s with years of ostomy experience continue to snorkel, hike, and travel without any issues. Enjoy your surf trip!