This topic is about preparing for an evacuation if you have an ostomy, especially in the face of hurricanes like Irma. The focus is on ensuring you have enough supplies to manage your ostomy needs during an emergency. Here are some helpful tips and advice:

1. Always have an emergency bag ready. Think of it like packing for a long trip. Keep it stocked with about a week's worth of supplies and make sure to replenish it regularly.

2. It's wise to have extra ostomy supplies on hand. Conditions in shelters can be unpredictable, so being self-reliant is crucial.

3. When preparing for a hurricane, pack all the supplies you own. This includes pouches, wafers, accessories, medications, adhesive remover wipes, stoma powder, and more. Remove them from their boxes and compress them to save space.

4. Bring full quantities of your supplies, such as all your boxes of pouches. After a storm, it might be difficult to get replacements, and you may not be able to return home or find your supplies intact.

5. Remember that after events like Hurricane Katrina, evacuees were kept away from their homes for weeks, and many lost all their possessions. Having complete medical supplies can prevent additional hardship.

6. If the evacuation turns out to be unnecessary, the only downside is carrying a larger bag, which is much better than running out of essential items.