This topic is about living an active life with an ostomy, specifically focusing on playing pickleball and the idea of organizing a Caribbean get-together for people with ostomies. The originator has been living with an ostomy for 25 years and has embraced an active lifestyle, including swimming, triathlons, biking, and kayaking. For the past seven years, they have been playing pickleball almost daily and even became a certified Pickleball Canada Instructor. They are considering organizing a gathering for ostomates at a Caribbean resort with pickleball courts and are seeking feedback on this idea.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Many people with ostomies are actively playing pickleball:
- A member in a 55-plus community plays 3-4 times a week and has had an ostomy for 4 years.
- One participant plays pickleball professionally.
- A 69-year-old started playing five months ago and has had an ostomy since 2021.
- Another player returned to the court 2-3 times a week after surgery last year.

2. Protective gear is important. Several players recommend using a Stealth Belt, which they find essential for protecting the stoma during play.

3. Being open about having an ostomy can be beneficial. The advice is to "live as if you didn’t have it" but to let friends know about the bag. People tend to appreciate the honesty, and it helps avoid surprises.

4. There is interest in traveling and resorts. Members are curious about which resorts have pickleball courts and where the originator currently plays, indicating a clear interest in the proposed Caribbean meet-up.