This topic is about a person from Mystic, Connecticut, who is six months into their recovery after ostomy surgery. They are eager to get back to their favorite water activities, like snorkeling and scuba diving, as spring approaches. They are seeking advice from others who have experience managing an ostomy while enjoying these activities.
Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:
1. Before heading into the water, consider using a closed-end pouch instead of a drainable one. This can provide extra security while swimming or diving. Afterward, you can switch back to your regular pouch.
2. If the local waters are cold or if a snug wetsuit feels uncomfortable around your ostomy appliance, think about using a dry suit. Alternatively, you can try different wetsuit styles to find one that doesn't put pressure on your pouch.
3. The community includes several swimmers and a few divers who are available to offer more specific advice. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for further guidance.
The person also shared some personal experiences, like quitting smoking 20 years ago to improve their snorkeling ability, which they believe has contributed to their overall health. They fondly remember their best snorkeling experience off the coast of Honduras and are curious about others' experiences with living with an ostomy and their favorite snorkeling spots.
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