This topic is about someone who decided to share their personal experience of having a permanent colostomy with their co-workers after keeping it private for 18 months. Initially, they were upset by a direct question from a colleague about their condition, but this led to an open conversation. They found relief in being honest and discovered that a supervisor also knew someone with an ostomy, which made the situation more comfortable. Now, they feel less anxious about potential issues like leaks or noises because their co-workers understand the situation. They are also curious about what questions might arise next.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared:

1. Remember, there is nothing to be ashamed of. You didn’t choose this situation, and it’s important to remind yourself of that.
2. Giving your stoma a name and using humor can help reduce anxiety and make conversations about it easier.
3. Using your ostomy as an educational tool can help normalize it and encourage others to get timely colorectal screenings, such as colonoscopies.
4. If possible, have an ostomy nurse mark the preferred location for your stoma before surgery. A well-placed stoma can improve comfort and confidence in managing the pouch.
5. Deciding when and how much to share about your ostomy is entirely up to you. Many people, including medical professionals and new colleagues, tend to be supportive once they understand.
6. Speaking publicly about your experience, such as to nursing students, can turn a challenging journey into something positive, offering hope and practical insights to others.
7. Always carrying spare supplies can prepare you for unexpected leaks and help prevent stressful situations at work or elsewhere.