This topic is about managing the insecurities and challenges that come with having a permanent colostomy, especially in a work environment. After colorectal cancer surgery, a new member of the community is feeling grateful for the life-saving operation but is also dealing with some difficult issues. These include unexpected incontinence, gas, and odor, which have led to embarrassing moments at work. The member is also anxious about attending meetings due to a lack of understanding from the company director. They are reaching out to connect with others who have faced similar challenges and are looking for practical advice to regain confidence.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by the community:

1. Community support and resources:
- Look through older posts, blogs, and visit the chat room for real-time help.
- Share your situation with trusted colleagues or family to reduce feelings of isolation and increase understanding.

2. Odor control inside the pouch:
- Use M-9 Ostomy Odor Eliminator drops.
- Try odor-control lubricants or gels from various brands, and some members suggest adding a small amount of baking soda (sparingly, as it adds weight).
- Consider activated-charcoal pouch filters or charcoal sachets inside the bag, which are helpful for many.
- Chlorophyll tablets from health-food stores have been reported by some to reduce stool odor.

3. Gas management and diet:
- Keep a food diary to identify and limit high-gas foods.
- Beano or Gas-X before meals can be useful, according to several members.
- Avoid quick bending or stretching after meals to reduce sudden gas releases.

4. Reducing noise:
- Lightly cover the stoma with a hand or clothing layer when you feel pressure.
- Inform meeting participants ahead of time that involuntary sounds may occur to diffuse tension.
- Briefly leave the room when you sense gas building.

5. Colostomy irrigation (for colostomates):
- Many members recommend daily or alternate-day irrigation to empty the colon, providing 24–48 hours of predictable dryness and reducing odor and gas.
- Use a standard irrigation kit and perform at the same time each day to "train" the bowel. Once successful, you can wear a small stoma cap instead of a pouch.

6. Pouch preparation before meetings or outings:
- Empty the pouch and add fresh deodorant drops just beforehand.
- If your pouch has a filter, place tape over it temporarily to prevent outward odor during prolonged sessions.
- A light spritz of perfume on a cloth pouch cover can help mask minor odors.

7. Workplace considerations:
- Document requests for reasonable accommodations, such as the ability to step out as needed or access to a restroom, if management remains unsympathetic.

8. Psychological perspective:
- Many long-term ostomates report that routine eventually overrides insecurity, and life becomes second nature.
- Remind yourself that it’s a life-saving trade-off, and stay positive while focusing on gradual progress.