The Beautiful Bag: Recent Episodes
LeeAnne Hayden
The Beautiful Bag is a Podcast for anyone who is in an Ostomy, may have to be in one and those that want to learn more about what life is like living in one. Each week I will be hosting a guest, sharing a story or educating you on what it is all about. I am happy to have you here!
In this episode, I walk through exactly what happened to my mornings this past year, why I started reaching for my phone before my feet even hit the floor, and the specific, small things I've put back in place at 55 to feel like myself again.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The moment I realized my confidence had quietly taken a hit this year (14:04)
- Why my husband's 4:40am alarm taught me more about structure than I wanted to learn (1:22)
- How structure carried me through corporate and into building my own thing, until it didn't (2:05)
- Becoming the full-time caretaker for my 82-year-old aunt, and what that really cost my mornings (5:44)
- The moment I caught myself judging my whole day by what my aura ring said before I was even out of bed (3:41)
- What I've put back, non-negotiable by non-negotiable, starting with the first hour of the day (6:14)
- Why movement isn't optional for me, mentally or with an ostomy (7:50)
- The two supplements I actually use, and why I stopped guessing at what my body needs (9:23)
(Timestamps are approximate, taken from the transcript's own captions.)
RESOURCES + LINKS
Liquid BioCell Life+ (collagen):
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.shaklee.com/en_US/leeannehayden/Nutrition/Targeted-Solutions/Collagen/Liquid-BioCell%25C2%25AE-Life%252B/p/21432&source=gmail&ust=1785426211029000&sa=E
Meology personalized nutrition assessment:
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://us.shaklee.com/en_US/leeannehayden/Nutrition/Essential-Nutrition/Meology/Meology%25C2%25AE/p/89543&source=gmail&ust=1785426211029000&sa=E
Website: https://www.google.com/url?q=http://leeannehayden.com&source=gmail&ust=1785426211029000&sa=E
CONNECT WITH LEEANNE
Instagram: @leeannehayden
YouTube: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.youtube.com/@LeeAnneHayden&source=gmail&ust=1785426211029000&sa=E
Website: https://www.google.com/url?q=http://leeannehayden.com&source=gmail&ust=1785426211029000&sa=E
"Beautifully Whole is the podcast for women who have been through something and are ready to feel like themselves again. Every week LeeAnne Hayden brings you honest conversations about midlife, wellness, ostomy life, and building something of your own, because you are more than what you have been through. New episodes every Wednesday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, and YouTube."
Key takeaways:
- A structured morning (no phone first, movement, a protein-forward breakfast) changed how much LeeAnne gets done and how she feels about her day.
- Life circumstances, like taking on a caretaking role, can quietly erode structure without you noticing until a year has gone by.
- Confidence and body image can take a hit in ways you don't clock until you look back at your own photos.
- Movement is non-negotiable, both for mental health and for keeping her digestive system moving with an ostomy.
- A personalized supplement routine can cost less and do more than a shelf full of guesses.
What happens when you leave a business you built - and go back to corporate America? LeeAnne did exactly that. And she is not going to let you forget the moment Ivan rumbled in a quiet meeting.
In 2018, after years of building her own businesses innetwork marketing and health and wellness, LeeAnne Hayden went back tocorporate America. Not because she wanted to. Because she and John were movingto Manhattan and they needed stability. She got a great sales job working withprivate equity firms. And then she walked into a cubicle with an ostomy thatwas two years old and had absolutely no idea what was coming.
This episode is the honest version of what working in anoffice with an ostomy actually looked like. The rumbling in quiet meetings. The moment a colleague thought someone's phone was vibrating. The slow erosion of confidence in a woman who had always been one of the most confident people inany room. And the Friday afternoon at 3pm that changed everything.
But this episode is also about what came after. TheHollister ambassadorship. The Beautiful Bag podcast. Getting back into health and wellness. Building Heritage Club. Everything that has happened in the seven years since she walked out of that Manhattan office - because she walked out ofit.
In this episode:
· How LeeAnne accidentally fell into network marketing afterfitness competitions in 2012
· Building a team of 12,000 people - and then joining Tyra Banks's cosmetics line
· What happened when Tyra shut the doors and LeeAnne had to figure out what came next
· Why she went back to corporate America in 2018 - the honestfinancial reason
· What it actually felt like to have an ostomy in a Manhattancubicle at two years out
· The meeting where Ivan rumbled and a colleague thought someone's phone was vibrating
· How the slow erosion of confidence plays out in a corporateenvironment when your body is unpredictable
· The Friday at 3pm - leaving early, getting called into theboss's office on Monday, and knowing it was over
· What working for yourself has given back that corporate tookaway
· Why structured freedom is everything
Workingfor yourself does not give you control. It gives you something better. It gives you ownership. When things go wrong in your own business - they are yours to fix. When things go right - they are yours to keep.
Connect with LeeAnne:
· Instagram: @leeannehayden
· Website: leeannehayden.com
It has been over a year. And I am not apologizing for it.
When I stepped away from The Beautiful Bag, I did not plan for it to be this long. What started as a summer break turned into something more, a blockage that took me offline for sixweeks last October, a business I was growing, and a quiet but persistent feeling that something inside the show needed to shift before I opened my mouth again.
The Beautiful Bag has always been more than an ostomy podcast. It was the doorway to community, tohonesty, to the 2am conversations that reminded all of us we were not alone. But over this past year, something kept happening. Women who had never had anostomy started finding me. They were asking the same questions our community. has always asked: how do I feel like myself again? How do I get my life back?
Conversations about hormones, surgical menopause, reinvention, building a business, what 55 actually lookslike they kept coming up, and they did not fit inside The Beautiful Bag. So I. had to figure out how to make the show bigger without leaving anyone behind. I finally figured it out. And that is why I am back.
In this episode:
· Why it has been over a year the honest version, including ablockage that took her offline for six weeks
· What started shifting inside The Beautiful Bag and why the showstarted to feel too small
· The 2am DMs that kept her going every time she thought aboutwalking away
· Why the ostomy was always the doorway not the wholeconversation
· The name change: The Beautiful Bag becomes Beautifully Whole
· What Beautifully Whole covers going forward: Midlife Life,Advocacy, and Building
· Why nothing is going away every episode, every guest, everystory stays
· What it actually looks like to reinvent your life at 55
The Beautiful Bag is not going away. Ostomy guests are still coming. The community still has a home here. The umbrella is just getting wider. Welcome to Beautifully Whole.
Connect with LeeAnne:
· Instagram: @leeannehayden
· Website: leeannehayden.com
· Email list:leeannehayden.com/beautifully-whole
This episode is from 2021 with guest Angie Davenport as she shares her journey with her ostomy.
In this episode, I’m sharing some real-life experiences and lessons learned that I think so many ostomates will connect with.
First, I talk about my recent travel through airport security in Italy — and the unexpected moment when a security guard didn’t understand what my ostomy pouch was. That experience reminded me how important it is to find ways to communicate across language barriers so we can advocate for ourselves with confidence.
I also dive into the importance of pelvic floor therapy for ostomates. Since many of us no longer use certain muscles the same way, therapy can make a huge difference for things like bladder health, painful intercourse, and overall quality of life. I share a bit about my own journey, including how my therapist is helping me with adhesions — and why it’s always essential to check with your doctor first before starting something new.
Finally, I highlight Hollister’s upgraded pouches and the improvements they’ve made to support comfort and confidence in daily life.
✨ Whether you’re traveling, navigating health challenges, or exploring new products, I hope this episode encourages you and reminds you that you’re not alone.
In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden speaks with Sandra Mannon about her journey with scleroderma and the decision to undergo an ileostomy. Sandra shares her experiences as a trauma nurse and the challenges she faced after being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. The conversation delves into the complexities of her medical journey, the emotional impact of transitioning to life with an ostomy, and the importance of patient advocacy. Sandra reflects on her past year of healing and adaptation, highlighting the resilience required to navigate her health challenges. In this conversation, the speaker shares her personal journey of overcoming the challenges of living with an ostomy due to scleroderma. She discusses the emotional and physical struggles she faced, including feelings of defeat and despair, and how she found healing through mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga. The speaker emphasizes the importance of acceptance and positivity in redefining her identity and living life fully despite her condition. She also shares practical tips for managing life with an ostomy and encourages others to embrace their strength and resilience.
Takeaways
- Sandra's journey with scleroderma began after a meningitis infection.
- She faced multiple health challenges, including bowel obstructions and reflux.
- The decision for an ileostomy was a significant turning point in her life.
- Sandra emphasizes the importance of being your own health advocate.
- Her experience highlights the complexities of managing a rare autoimmune disease.
- Post-surgery, she encountered unexpected complications, including infections and prolapses.
- The emotional impact of transitioning to life with an ostomy was profound for her.
- Sandra's medical background provided her with knowledge but also created challenges in accepting her situation.
- She learned to navigate her health challenges with resilience and determination.
- The past year has been a journey of healing and adaptation. I was just exhausted.
- I wanted to die.
- I truly, truly believe that I had a healing there.
- Life is now good.
- I eat by gravity.
- I want to live my life.
- It's just so easy.
- The mind is so powerful.
- This ostomy is not the end of our life.
- Let this show how strong that you are.
Summary
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by Kimberly Coleman and Jessica Miles to discuss their personal journeys as ostomates, their experiences with Hollister products, and the importance of skin health and advocacy in the ostomy community. They share insights on choosing the right products, the significance of skin care, and the need for support and education for those living with ostomies.
Takeaways
- Kimberly is a stage two colorectal cancer survivor diagnosed at 47.
- Jessica has a genetic collagen disorder leading to her ostomy.
- Choosing the right ostomy products is crucial for comfort and care.
- Skin health is a major concern for ostomates.
- Hollister products have been beneficial for both Kimberly and Jessica.
- Advocacy and education are essential for ostomates.
- Different ostomy products serve different needs at different times.
- Support services like Secure Start can help ostomates navigate their care.
- Active lifestyles can be maintained with the right ostomy products.
- Community support is vital for those living with ostomies.
In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden interviews Elizabeth, who shares her personal journey with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Elizabeth discusses her diagnosis, the challenges of living with IBD, her experiences with various treatments, and the impact of lifestyle changes on her health. She also talks about her surgeries, including the decision to have a stoma, and how she navigated life during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the importance of nutrition, mental health, and support in managing chronic illness. In this conversation, Elizabeth shares her journey of living with a stoma, emphasizing the importance of community support and the positive impact of social media in her healing process. She discusses her approach to nutrition post-surgery, highlighting the trial and error involved in finding what works for her body. The conversation also delves into the significance of supplements in maintaining health and wellness, as well as the shared experiences of navigating life with chronic conditions. The episode concludes with a focus on the importance of personal journeys and the support found within the community.
Takeaways
- Elizabeth was diagnosed with Crohn's and colitis in 2009.
- She experienced severe symptoms for over a decade before diagnosis.
- Nutrition became a passion for Elizabeth due to her health struggles.
- She had multiple flare-ups and was often put on steroids.
- Elizabeth underwent surgery to manage her condition, including a stoma.
- She learned the importance of vitamin D for her health.
- Living in Bali positively impacted her well-being.
- Elizabeth transitioned to working for herself, which improved her quality of life.
- She faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic after her surgeries.
- Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of mental health in managing chronic illness. I was one of the lucky ones because my passions were around health and wellness.
- I went on Instagram and found a community of people living with stomas.
- I was actually very positive and grateful going in.
- The more we share our journeys, the better it will be for the next generation.
- Food is everything, and it's all trial and error for each of us.
- Our bodies are very smart; they will tell us what's going on.
- I can't have fiber because it causes blockages for me.
- I take all the supplements that help with inflammation and health.
- Living with a stoma has been a massive trial and error.
- Community support is crucial in navigating health challenges.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne speaks with Nina Hayes, a nutritionist and yoga instructor who shares her journey with ostomy and how it has transformed her life. They discuss the importance of yoga and meditation in healing, the challenges of nutrition for those with ostomies, and practical tips for traveling with an ostomy. Nina emphasizes the significance of intuitive eating and how it empowers individuals to listen to their bodies. The conversation concludes with Nina's insights on vulnerability as a strength and resources for those seeking support.takeaways
- Nina's journey with ostomy began in 2002 after her colon was removed.
- Yoga has been a crucial practice for Nina, helping her manage pain and improve posture.
- Intuitive eating allows individuals to trust their bodies and make informed food choices.
- Traveling with an ostomy requires careful planning and packing extra supplies.
- Nina emphasizes the importance of community and support for those with ostomies.
- Practicing yoga can help alleviate adhesions and prevent further surgeries.
- Nutrition for ostomy patients can include pureed vegetables and juices.
- Nina offers a 12-week transformational program for women with ostomies.
- The journey with an ostomy can lead to personal growth and empowerment.
- Vulnerability is a strength that can foster connection and resilience.
In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden interviews Michelle Valentino, who shares her inspiring journey of living with an ostomy after years of battling chronic illness. Michelle discusses her early health struggles, the challenges of motherhood while managing her condition, and the impact of her surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of community support, self-acceptance, and resilience in overcoming the stigma associated with living with an ostomy. Michelle's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of connection in navigating life's challenges.
Takeaways
Michelle's health struggles began at a young age, leading to a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis.
Embarrassment and fear often prevent individuals from seeking help for health issues.
Life with chronic illness can be challenging, but it doesn't have to define one's identity.
Motherhood brought additional health challenges, but Michelle persevered.
Surgery was a turning point, but the COVID-19 pandemic complicated the process.
Adjusting to life with an ostomy requires patience and support.
Overcoming embarrassing moments is part of the journey to self-acceptance.
Finding a supportive community is crucial for mental health and resilience.
Life after surgery can lead to newfound freedom and energy.
It's important to share experiences to help others feel less alone.
In this episode, Krista shares her inspiring journey of living with Crohn's disease since childhood and her decision to undergo ostomy surgery. She discusses the challenges she faced, including pain and incontinence, and how she advocated for her health. Krista highlights the positive changes in her life post-surgery and offers encouragement to others facing similar health challenges.TakeawaysKrista was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at a young age.She experienced significant challenges before her ostomy surgery.Advocacy for her health was crucial in her journey.The decision for surgery was influenced by her upcoming wedding.Post-surgery, Krista has experienced a better quality of life.She emphasizes the importance of community support on Instagram.Living with an ostomy has brought unexpected positives.Krista encourages others to not let their illness define them.She shares that it’s important to express feelings about health.Life can improve significantly after making difficult health decisions.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden speaks with Lauren Beach, a Crohn's disease survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis at a young age to living with an ostomy. Lauren discusses the challenges she faced during her teenage years, including health struggles, body image issues, and the impact on her dating life. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, community support, and maintaining a positive outlook. The conversation also touches on fitness and how Lauren has adapted her workout routine post-surgery, proving that a fulfilling life is possible with an ostomy. The episode concludes with Lauren's inspiring message about resilience and finding joy in life despite challenges.TakeawaysLauren was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at 12 years old.She faced significant health challenges during her teenage years.Living with an ostomy has its ups and downs, but it's manageable.Dating can be challenging, but honesty is key.Fitness is still possible and beneficial with an ostomy.Community support on social media has been inspiring for Lauren.Self-acceptance is crucial for mental health and confidence.Accidents can happen, but they are not the end of the world.Positivity can help navigate life's challenges.Lauren encourages others to find joy and gratitude in life.
In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden shares her personal journey with small bowel obstructions and adhesions, detailing her experiences in the hospital, the impact on her health, and the dietary changes she has made to manage her condition. She emphasizes the importance of understanding adhesions, the challenges of navigating health issues, and the need for community support. LeeAnne also explores alternative remedies and practices to improve her well-being, ultimately encouraging listeners to take charge of their health and share their own stories.takeaways
- LeeAnne shares her personal journey with small bowel obstructions.
- Understanding adhesions is crucial for managing health post-surgery.
- Dietary changes can significantly impact digestive health.
- Hospital visits can be daunting but are necessary for treatment.
- Maintaining a soft stool is essential for preventing obstructions.
- Alternative remedies like castor oil may help with adhesions.
- Coca-Cola is mentioned as a potential remedy for blockages.
- Community support is vital for those dealing with health issues.
- LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.
- Living with a chronic condition requires ongoing adjustments and learning.
In this episode, Kim Fleck shares her personal journey through health challenges leading to her ileostomy. From her background as a special education teacher to her struggles with misdiagnosis and autoimmune issues, Kim's story highlights resilience and the importance of community support. She discusses her experiences with various treatments, the impact of her health on her life, and her exploration of natural remedies and dietary changes. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the misconceptions surrounding vegetarianism, the importance of self-discovery, and the transformative journey of healing through alternative medicine. They share personal stories of resilience, the significance of listening to one's body, and the power of relationships with healers. The discussion emphasizes the need for quiet reflection and the choice to spiral up in life despite challenges.
Takeaways
This is my perspective, not a prescription for others.
I had no previous health issues before moving to Connecticut.
I got obsessed with P90X to stay fit despite my health issues.
Losing all my hair was a significant emotional challenge.
Brain lesions affected only 1-2% of the population, and I was one of them.
I decided to embrace my appearance and never wore a wig again.
I developed a cancer imposter syndrome due to misconceptions about my health.
Hospitalization led to my permanent ileostomy, which changed my life.
I learned the importance of advocating for my health and choices.
Dietary changes became crucial in managing my health issues. There's a lot of processed foods in vegetarian diets.
Meeting Dr. Ming Wu was a turning point in my health journey.
Self-discovery is crucial for healing.
Listening to your body can guide your health choices.
Qigong and meditation helped me find peace.
Reinventing life after teaching was necessary for my growth.
Healing involves building relationships with supportive healers.
Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
You have a choice to spiral up or down in life.
Knowing yourself is key to navigating health challenges.
In this episode, Molly shares her unique journey of living with an ostomy, starting from her childhood struggles with chronic constipation to her eventual ileostomy surgery. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of community support, and how her perspective on life has changed since her surgery. Molly emphasizes the significance of mental health and acceptance in navigating life with an ostomy, and she inspires listeners to embrace their journeys and seek support.
Takeaways
Molly's journey began with chronic constipation from birth.
She faced numerous medical challenges before her ileostomy surgery.
The ostomy community is supportive and empowering.
Living with an ostomy has improved Molly's quality of life.
Mental health is crucial in the journey of acceptance.
Finding a support system can help process emotions.
Molly's condition is linked to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
She encourages others to share their stories and connect.
Ostomy is not a death sentence, but a life sentence.
Authenticity and openness can inspire others.
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, LeeAnne Hayden explores the multifaceted nature of burnout, particularly in the context of living with an ostomy. She delves into the emotional, physical, and behavioral signs of burnout, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these symptoms as the first step towards recovery. LeeAnne shares practical tools for assessing life balance through the 'bucket method' and encourages listeners to take actionable steps to fill their life buckets. The episode concludes with an introduction to the Worthy of Wellness Club, a community initiative aimed at helping individuals overcome burnout and live a balanced, purposeful life.
Takeaways
- Burnout encompasses emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion.
- Recognizing the signs of burnout is crucial for recovery.
- Saying no is essential for maintaining personal energy.
- Assessing life balance can be done through the bucket method.
- You are worthy of living a fulfilling life, free from burnout.
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag Podcast, host LeeAnne Interviews Danielle and Joe as they share their personal journeys with ostomy surgeries due to Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. They discuss how they met through social media, the birth of their advocacy platform 'Double Bagging It', and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of ostomy on their lives, the freedom it has brought them, and their mission to raise awareness and share stories within the ostomy community.
Takeaways:
- The importance of community support for those with ostomies.
- Social media can be a powerful tool for connection.
- Ostomy can lead to a more fulfilling life.
- Advocacy is crucial in raising awareness about ostomy.
- Personal stories can inspire and help others.
- Living with an ostomy can be liberating.
- It's okay to share your journey in your own way.
- Finding your tribe is essential for emotional support.
- Health journeys are unique and should not be compared.
- Embracing life after ostomy surgery is possible and rewarding.
In this podcast episode, Stephanie Benson shares her inspiring journey of living with Crohn's disease and navigating life with an ostomy. From her initial diagnosis to the challenges of dating and self-acceptance, Stephanie discusses the importance of community support and finding strength in adversity. She offers practical tips for managing health, fashion choices, and maintaining a positive outlook despite the struggles of chronic illness. The conversation emphasizes the significance of open communication and the power of shared experiences in fostering resilience and hope.
Takeaways
Stephanie was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in high school.
Living with an ostomy has transformed Stephanie's life for the better.
Community support is crucial for those dealing with chronic illness.
Dating with an ostomy requires open communication and honesty.
Fashion choices can be adapted to accommodate an ostomy.
Managing health involves understanding personal dietary needs.
Chronic illness can lead to unexpected blessings and growth.
It's important to grieve the loss of the pre-illness self.
Maintaining a positive outlook is essential for mental health.
Finding a supportive community can make a significant difference.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host Speaker interviews Tom, a rectal cancer survivor who shares his journey from diagnosis to recovery. Tom discusses the initial shock of his diagnosis, the challenges of chemotherapy and surgery, and the adjustments he has made to life with an ostomy. He emphasizes the importance of support from family and community, the dietary changes he has experienced, and the various ostomy products available. Tom's story is one of resilience, hope, and a desire to help others facing similar challenges.
Takeaways
Tom was healthy until he experienced sudden pain.
The importance of follow-up appointments cannot be overstated.
Chemotherapy and radiation were part of Tom's treatment plan.
Support from family was crucial during Tom's journey.
Dietary changes were significant after surgery.
Tom found strength in online communities.
It's essential to try different ostomy products.
There is a stigma around ostomies that needs to be addressed.
Tom encourages others to reach out for support.
You are not alone in your journey.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host and guest Brianna share an insightful conversation about living with an ostomy, her journey with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and the importance of raising awareness about ostomies. Brianna discusses her initial struggles, the adjustments she made after surgery, and how her perspective on life with a stoma has evolved over the years. She emphasizes that having an ostomy is not as daunting as many believe and shares her experiences to help others understand and accept their own journeys.
Takeaways
Brianna has had her permanent ileostomy for over three years.
She was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, affecting her GI tract.
Adjusting to life with an ostomy took time and patience.
Brianna named her stoma Stella, which has become a part of her identity.
She emphasizes the importance of raising ostomy awareness.
Many people fear ostomies due to misconceptions about smell and lifestyle.
Brianna's recovery journey included multiple surgeries and challenges.
She has learned to navigate ostomy products and find what works best for her.
Brianna encourages others to share their stories and experiences.
Living with an ostomy can improve quality of life despite initial fears.
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, LeeAnne Hayden shares her personal journey through marriage, love, and the challenges she faced, including a cancer diagnosis and the impact it had on her relationship. She emphasizes the importance of communication, commitment, and resilience in navigating the ups and downs of marriage. LeeAnne reflects on her experiences, the lessons learned, and the significance of family and support in overcoming life's obstacles.
Takeaways:
- February is often seen as the month of love, but love should be celebrated all year round.
- Marriage is a commitment that requires work and dedication.
- Facing challenges together can strengthen a relationship.
- Cancer can be a life-altering experience, but there is hope and support available.
- Adjusting to significant life changes, like a colostomy, requires open communication.
- Financial struggles can put a strain on relationships, but they can also lead to growth.
- Rebuilding a relationship often involves starting fresh and focusing on each other.
- Communication is essential for a healthy marriage.
- It's important to give each other space to grow and change.
- True love is about supporting each other through thick and thin.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode
10:14 Navigating Challenges in Marriage
17:05 Adjusting to Life with a Colostomy
25:01 Rebuilding the Relationship in New York
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, Yvonne Holly, known as Crohn's Mummy on Instagram, shares her profound journey with Crohn's disease, which began at the age of 11. She discusses her diagnosis, the challenges of living with a colostomy bag, and her experiences with pregnancy while managing her health. Yvonne's story highlights the resilience required to navigate chronic illness and motherhood, offering insights into the emotional and physical hurdles she faced along the way. In this conversation, Yvonne shares her profound journey through motherhood, health challenges, and the experience of living with an ostomy. She reflects on the emotional turmoil of her daughter's health struggles, her own battles with sepsis and surgeries, and how these experiences shaped her resilience. Yvonne emphasizes the importance of finding positivity in adversity and encourages open discussions about health issues to foster support and understanding.
Takeaways:
Yvonne was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at age 11.
She underwent a colostomy in 2010, which became permanent in 2016.
Living with a perianal abscess for nine years was a significant challenge.
The colostomy bag provided relief and improved her quality of life.
Pregnancy had a positive effect on her Crohn's symptoms.
Yvonne had to plan her pregnancies around her health condition.
She experienced complications during her second pregnancy.
Her daughter Felicity faced health challenges at birth.
Yvonne has undergone over 50 surgeries throughout her life.
The support from the NHS was crucial during her pregnancies. It's not my fault, but I felt responsible.
She needs to fight for her life before she learns to feed.
My daughter is the strongest little girl I know.
I was rushed in with sepsis again, it was scary.
I just remember signing and saying, take it all away.
I love my colostomy bag just as much as my children.
My ostomy has given me a life back.
You can always find the positivity in anything.
Never suffer in silence, always talk about your illness.
Talking about your illness can do wonderful things to your brain.
Connect on Instagram:
LeeAnne https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
Yvonne https://www.instagram.com/crohns.mummy/
Summary
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden speaks with Kaya, who shares her journey with ulcerative colitis and living with an ostomy. Kaya discusses her diagnosis at a young age, the challenges of managing her health, and the emotional toll it took on her. She also shares her experiences with pregnancy, the transition to a J-pouch, and the support she received from her family and husband. Throughout the conversation, Kaya emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, embracing one's situation, and helping others who face similar challenges.
Takeaways:
Kaya was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 14.
She experienced significant weight loss and health challenges.
Navigating life with an ostomy was initially overwhelming.
Surgery was a turning point in her health journey.
Transitioning to a J-pouch involved dietary adjustments.
Pregnancy brought new health complications for Kaya.
Support from family and friends was crucial during tough times.
Kaya's husband played a significant role in her recovery.
She learned to embrace her ostomy and share her story.
Kaya encourages others to ask questions and seek support.
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden celebrates her ninth anniversary with her stoma, sharing her personal journey from being an accountant to facing cancer and ultimately embracing life with an ostomy. LeeAnne reflects on the challenges she faced, the support from her community, and the lessons learned throughout her journey. She emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and connecting with others who have similar experiences, highlighting the resilience and empowerment that comes from overcoming adversity.
- Celebrating nine years with my stoma is a significant milestone.
- Sharing my story is important for both myself and others.
- Facing cancer led to unexpected life changes and growth.
- Community support plays a crucial role in healing and resilience.
- Life with an ostomy can be embraced with positivity and acceptance.
- The journey from accountant to sales was transformative.
- Health challenges can lead to new opportunities and paths.
- Surgery brought about fears, but also a sense of peace.
- Learning to live with an ostomy involves trial and error.
- Every experience contributes to personal growth and empowerment.
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Nine Years with My Stoma
02:53 The Journey Begins: From Accountant to Sales
05:48 Facing Health Challenges: The Discovery of Cancer
11:37 Surgery and the Unexpected: Life with an Ostomy
22:42 Embracing Life After Surgery: A New Normal
33:40 Reflections on Life: Celebrating Achievements and Community
37:51 Legal statement.mp3
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, LeeAnne Hayden discusses the concept of 'chic confidence,' which combines inner self-esteem with outward style. She shares personal experiences and practical tips on how to boost confidence through fashion, self-care, and community support. LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of feeling good inside and out, and how personal style can reflect one's unique personality. The conversation also touches on the significance of gratitude, self-talk, and the role of supportive communities in building confidence, especially for those living with an ostomy.
Takeaways:
- Chic confidence is about feeling good inside and out.
- Fashion can significantly boost your confidence.
- It's important to wear clothes that reflect your personality.
- Building confidence takes time and small steps.
- Self-talk plays a crucial role in your confidence levels.
- Practicing gratitude can enhance your overall well-being.
- Surround yourself with supportive people to build confidence.
- Don't compare yourself to others; focus on your journey.
- Create a 'power outfit' that makes you feel confident.
- Community support is vital for personal growth and confidence.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chic Confidence
05:39 Fashion as a Confidence Booster
15:15 Inner Confidence and Self-Talk
23:40 The Importance of Community and Support
30:52 Legal statement.mp3
In this episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden returns after a seven-month hiatus to reflect on her experiences in 2024 and share her goals for 2025. She discusses the importance of setting personal, family, and business goals, and emphasizes the need for clarity and planning in achieving them. LeeAnne also invites listeners to engage with her and share their own goals as they embark on the new year together.
LeeAnne expresses her excitement to return to podcasting after a long break.
She reflects on the busy and fulfilling year of 2024, including personal travels and professional engagements.
Setting clear and achievable goals is essential for personal growth and success.
LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of self-care in goal setting.
She shares her personal goal of abstaining from alcohol for a year and its significance.
The podcast will feature more solo episodes alongside guest interviews in 2025.
Listeners are encouraged to share their goals and topics they want to hear about.
Vision boards can be a powerful tool for visualizing and achieving goals.
LeeAnne highlights the importance of community and support in the journey of personal growth.
She expresses her desire to reconnect with her audience and foster engagement.
Leanne Watanabe shares her journey with ulcerative colitis and the decision to undergo surgery to remove her colon. She discusses her late discovery of fitness and her initial motivation to work out for weight loss. Leanne talks about her mentor who introduced her to marathon running and helped her believe in her abilities. She shares her experience training for her first marathon while dealing with GI issues. Leanne discusses the impact of stress and her dysfunctional upbringing on her health. She talks about her struggle to accept her diagnosis and the various treatments she tried before deciding on surgery. LeeAnne Hayden shares her experience living with ulcerative colitis and undergoing surgery to have an ostomy. She emphasizes that living with a chronic illness is never easy, but she is grateful for the chance to live a healthy life. Hayden encourages others to embrace their bodies and not let their diagnosis dictate how they live and thrive. She discusses the importance of therapy and setting boundaries in her healing journey. Hayden also talks about her experience competing in fitness competitions and how it has helped her change her relationship with dieting and exercise. She concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-love in achieving personal goals. Takeaways Fitness can be a powerful tool for building confidence and achieving goals, even for those with chronic illnesses. Stress and a dysfunctional upbringing can contribute to the development and exacerbation of health issues. It is important to be your own advocate and seek out the best medical care available, even if it means traveling to different locations. Surgery can be a life-changing decision for those with severe refractory ulcerative colitis, offering the possibility of improved quality of life. Alternative therapies may provide temporary relief, but it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and costs. Living with a chronic illness is never easy, but it is important to embrace the chance to live a healthy life. Therapy and setting boundaries are crucial in the healing journey. Competing in fitness competitions can help change one's relationship with dieting and exercise. Self-love is the foundation for achieving personal goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Summer Break Announcement 00:55 Leanne's Journey into Fitness 03:21 Navigating GI Issues While Training for a Marathon 08:06 The Role of Stress and Upbringing in Leanne's Health 14:11 Exploring Alternative Therapies for Ulcerative Colitis 27:46 Living with Ulcerative Colitis and Making the Decision for Surgery 29:13 Gratitude for a Chance at a Healthy Life 30:41 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Life 31:39 Living Beyond the Diagnosis 33:05 The Power of Self-Confidence and Body Acceptance 35:30 Therapy and Setting Boundaries in the Healing Journey 39:16 Changing the Relationship with Dieting and Exercise 44:00 The Importance of Self-Love in Achieving Personal Goals
SummaryDana shares her 17-year journey with ulcerative colitis and the challenges she faced before ultimately getting an ostomy. She reflects on her carefree college years, multiple surgeries, and the disappointment of the J-pouch not working as expected. Dana discusses the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness and the importance of therapy and self-care. She highlights the silver linings of having an ostomy, such as improved sleep and the ability to enjoy life's moments. Dana emphasizes the need for education, support, and breaking the stigma surrounding ostomies. Takeaways * Living with a chronic illness can be emotionally challenging, and therapy can be a valuable tool for coping and finding support. * Having an ostomy can bring unexpected benefits, such as improved sleep and the ability to fully participate in life's activities. * Education and awareness about ostomies are crucial for breaking the stigma and providing support to those who need it. * It's important to ask questions, seek advice, and connect with others who have similar experiences to navigate life with an ostomy.
- "I hit my rock bottom after surgery. I feel like that person that I used to know was gone. Like that version of me was gone. I was not me anymore. I was, who am I?"
- "I started to find the silver linings. Like this, this is not that bad. Maybe this will make things a little bit easier. Like, you'll be able to sleep at night and you're not running to the bathroom and you're not having a million accidents."
- "I feel like I can finally stand by myself. Yeah. It's pretty cool."
Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 01:29Diagnosis and College Years 06:25The Need for an Ostomy 10:02Adjusting to Life with an Ostomy 13:27The Emotional Journey and Therapy 23:53Embracing Life with an Ostomy 32:55Empowering Others and Breaking the Stigma 41:00Final Thoughts and Advice
In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden interviews Raina about her journey with an ostomy and her book 'Bare'. Raina shares her experiences with ulcerative colitis, her decision to get an ileostomy, and her subsequent journey with a J-pouch. She discusses the role of social media in her life and how it has helped her connect with others. Raina also talks about the challenges of dating with an ostomy and the importance of being open and honest about her condition. In this part of the conversation, LeeAnne Hayden discusses her experiences with relationships after getting an ileostomy. She shares how her first relationship after the surgery helped her feel loved and accepted with her bag. She also talks about the challenges of dating and having to disclose her condition to potential partners. LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of self-love and acceptance in navigating relationships with an ostomy. She also discusses her transition from being a wellness coach to a life coach and the power of journaling in her healing journey.
Takeaways
- Raina's journey with ulcerative colitis led her to get an ileostomy and later a J-pouch.
- Social media has played a significant role in Raina's life, allowing her to connect with others and share her experiences.
- Dating with an ostomy can be challenging, but being open and honest about it is important.
- Raina's book 'Bare' is a candid and honest account of her journey with an ostomy. Having a supportive partner can help in feeling loved and accepted with an ostomy.
- Self-love and acceptance are crucial in navigating relationships with an ostomy.
- Disclosing one's condition to potential partners can be nerve-wracking, but it is important for open communication.
- Transitioning from a wellness coach to a life coach allowed LeeAnne to focus on deeper aspects of personal growth and mindset.
- Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection, healing, and manifestation.
"I think my soul knew I needed that community and needed to have that as this like, you know, just this voice to like keep going, even when I didn't want to sometimes."
LeeAnne emphasizes that listeners should read this book, which you can find HERE
Connect with Raina on Instagram
Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram
Chloe Moody shares her unique experience of living with an ostomy since birth due to necrotizing enterocolitis. She discusses her childhood, including multiple surgeries and hospitalizations, as well as the challenges she faced in school, such as bullying and feeling different. Chloe emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community, like the UOAA youth rally, and encourages parents to send their children to such events. She also talks about her journey of self-discovery, pursuing higher education, and her aspirations to teach and advocate for others with chronic illnesses. Chloe's story highlights the need for greater awareness and acceptance of ostomies.
"You're not alone. We have a whole community now to support and uplift this next generation."
"I've kind of been stifling my own voice a little bit because I've just had that messaging my whole life."
https://www.instagram.com/chloemmoody/
https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
- LeeAnne introduces guest Ann Marie Lupacckino, who has had 3 ostomies.
- Ann Marie shares her journey, which began 18 years ago during pregnancy with a bowel perforation.
- Ann Marie underwent emergency surgery to remove her large intestine while pregnant.
- Despite challenges, Ann Marie gave birth full-term and underwent reversal surgery a year later.
- Ann Marie experienced complications, including severe anal fissures, leading to her decision for an ostomy last March.
- Complications post-surgery led to a second ostomy in October and a third surgery in February.
- Ann Marie emphasizes the impact of ostomies on her life and the importance of adaptation.
- Both LeeAnne and Ann Marie stress the supportive ostomy community and the resources available.
- Ann Marie looks forward to resuming her exercise routine once fully healed, highlighting the mental benefits.
- The conversation touches on the adjustments in diet and hydration with an ostomy.
- Ann Marie reflects on her journey, expressing gratitude for her surgeon and acceptance of her current situation.
In this episode I interview retire US navy man Dan Dry Dock Shockley.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Being in the Navy and learning perseverance
- Recovering from a surgery and needing to be back on assignment after 9/11
- Finding out about his rare genetic condition
- Living life in an ostomy
- His advocacy work
- How he lives by the 3 steps ADAPT, Improvise, Overcome
You can find Dan on Instagram, Twitter or email him @ dandrydock@gmail.comperseverance
Introduction:
LeeAnne expresses excitement for spring and its positive impact on wellness.
- Proper Hydration with an Iliostomy:
- Importance of hydration, especially with an Iliostomy.
- Tips for staying hydrated: carry water or herbal teas, use electrolytes.
- LeeAnne's personal hydration routine: drinking a gallon of water daily.
- Recommendations: Drink water before and after meals, monitor hydration levels.
- Exercise and Movement:
- Importance of exercise for overall wellness and mental health.
- LeeAnne's workout routine: daily walks, weightlifting, yoga.
- Suggestions for finding suitable exercises: walking, running, yoga, Pilates.
- Addressing concerns about hernias and stoma support belts.
- Stress Reduction and Self-Care:
- Importance of stress management for mental well-being.
- Strategies for stress reduction: journaling, taking baths, getting massages.
- Suggestions for self-care practices: meditation, breathwork, listening to the body.
-
Sleep and Rest:
- Importance of quality sleep for physical and mental health.
- Tips for improving sleep: maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting screen time before bed.
- Suggestions for enhancing sleep quality: exposure to sunlight in the morning, creating a bedtime routine.
-
Encouragement to prioritize self-care and wellness practices.
- Reminder to seek support from healthcare professionals and online resources like UOAA.
https://www.stealthbelt.com
- Introduction: LeeAnne Hayden welcomes listeners to the episode from her loft, introducing Cass Roberts as her guest. They met at the UAA convention in August and bonded over their shared experiences.
- Dancing and Transformative Power: Cass shares her love for dancing and how it has been transformative for her. She reflects on the immense joy she experienced at the UAA convention, being surrounded by people with ostomies like herself.
- Cass's Journey with Crohn's Disease: Cass opens up about her journey with Crohn's disease, starting from her diagnosis at age 11 in rural Mississippi. She details the challenges of misdiagnosis, extensive treatments, and the impact on her physical and emotional well-being.
- Experience with Ostomy Surgery: Cass describes her initial aversion to the idea of having an ostomy and the fears she had to overcome. She shares the circumstances that led to her first ostomy surgery in 2008 and the subsequent complications that necessitated a permanent ostomy in 2013.
- Life with an Ostomy: Despite initial struggles, Cass shares how her life has flourished since embracing her ostomy. She pursued diverse interests, including a career as a truck driver and owning a Princess Tea Party company. She also reflects on memorable moments, such as performing at children's parties despite wardrobe mishaps.
- Embracing Confidence: Cass emphasizes the importance of confidence and self-acceptance. She encourages listeners to celebrate their uniqueness and to recognize that they are more than their medical conditions.
- Building Community: LeeAnne and Cass discuss the power of community in overcoming challenges associated with ostomies. They reflect on the increasing visibility and support available for individuals with ostomies, both online and through in-person gatherings like conferences.
- Current Endeavors: Cass shares her current role as a developmental interventionist, working with children with disabilities. She emphasizes the significance of advocating for oneself and others in navigating health challenges.
- Final Thoughts: Cass leaves listeners with a message of self-love and respect, encouraging everyone to recognize their inherent worth beyond any physical differences.
- Conclusion: LeeAnne expresses gratitude to Cass for sharing her inspiring journey and vibrant spirit with listeners, highlighting her resilience and positivity.
Through their candid conversation, LeeAnne and Cass provide insight into the journey of living with an ostomy, emphasizing themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and the power of community.
In this episode, I, LeeAnne Hayden, emphasize the crucial role of nutrition in maintaining overall health and well-being. I stress the importance of consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats.
Throughout the discussion, I recognize that individual preferences and tolerances vary, urging listeners to experiment and find what works best for their bodies.
Supplementation is highlighted as a means to address potential nutrient deficiencies, particularly in light of changes in food quality and soil. I recommend high-quality supplements while advising listeners to consult healthcare providers before starting any supplementation regimen. https://leeannehayden.com/supplements
Furthermore, I stress the significance of managing fluid intake, emphasizing hydration and the addition of electrolytes to water for optimal hydration. Listeners are encouraged to visit my website LeeAnneHayden.com for more information and resources on wellness.
I also provide strategies for dining out, including reading menus carefully, asking about ingredients, and making adjustments to meals when necessary. Drawing from personal experiences, such as challenges after surgery, I underscore the importance of seeking expert advice from healthcare professionals, nutritionists, dieticians, and WOCN nurses.
Finally, I invite listeners to connect with me on Instagram @instagram, YouTube LeeAnneHayden, and through my website LeeAnneHayden.com. Additionally, I offer a free wellness guide on my website for those interested in further resources.
Join us this week as Nikki Kilpatrick shares her inspiring journey through ostomy surgery and the profound impact of mindset and community support on her recovery. Nikki's story highlights the power of connecting with others who have undergone similar experiences, emphasizing the importance of positivity and advocacy in facing health challenges. Tune in to discover how Nikki's journey of resilience and empowerment can inspire hope and change lives.
Guest: Nikki Kilpatrick
Key Points:
- Nikki shares her experience of waking up from surgery to find her ostomy had been created differently than expected.
- Despite initial shock, Nikki embraced her new reality and found empowerment through self-care and community support.
- Connecting with others on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok helped Nikki find hope and strength during her recovery.
- Nikki emphasizes the importance of mindset and positive community in facing health challenges and advocating for the treatment one deserves.
- By sharing her story, Nikki hopes to inspire others to find hope, resilience, and empowerment in their own journeys.
Resources:
- Connect with Nikki on Instagram and TikTok for more inspiring content.
- Explore ostomy support groups on Facebook for community and guidance.
- Check out the "Beautiful Bag" podcast for stories of resilience and empowerment from individuals with ostomies.
Host: LeeAnne Hayden
Connect with Us:
- Follow us on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
- Visit our website for more episodes and resources: leeannehayden.com
Title: Embracing Self-Love: Body Positivity and Self-Esteem
Description: Join host LeeAnne Hayden in this powerful episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast as she delves into the crucial topics of body positivity and self-esteem. With a compassionate heart and insightful perspective, LeeAnne guides listeners through practical steps to cultivate self-love and acceptance, especially in the face of challenges like living with a stoma.
In this episode, LeeAnne reflects on her own journey and shares personal experiences, offering relatable insights for listeners. From making the decision to love oneself to setting small achievable goals and practicing positive self-talk, she provides actionable strategies to uplift and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty and worth.
Discover the importance of surrounding oneself with positive role models and fostering a supportive community for mutual encouragement and growth. LeeAnne's heartfelt message reminds us all that we are loved, valued, and deserving of self-compassion.
Tune in to this episode for inspiration, encouragement, and practical tips on how to nurture self-love and celebrate the beauty within.
Show Notes:
-
Introduction:
- Host: LeeAnne Hayden
- Theme: Body Positivity and Self-Esteem
- Dedicated to spreading love and empowerment
-
Body Positivity:
-
Importance of self-love and acceptance
- Overcoming societal norms and comparisons
- Making the decision to love oneself unconditionally
-
Self-Esteem Building:
-
Setting small achievable goals
- Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations
- Dressing in a way that makes you feel confident
- Finding supportive role models and communities
-
Community Engagement:
-
Invitation to join the Beautiful Bag community on Telegram
- Sharing the podcast episode to spread love and encouragement
-
Conclusion:
-
Reaffirmation of self-worth and beauty
- Gratitude for listeners and commitment to making a positive impact
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights in the comments section and to join the Beautiful Bag community for ongoing support and encouragement. Together, let's embrace self-love and celebrate the beauty within each of us.
Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:
- Instagram: @beautifulbagpodcast
- Instagram: @leeannehayden
- TikTok: @beautifulbagpodcast
- TikTok @leeannehayden1
- YouTube: LeeAnne Hayden
Join the Beautiful Bag Community on Telegram: [Link]
Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode inspiring and helpful!
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag, host LeeAnne Hayden sits down with Jenny Harrison, a remarkable individual whose journey with gastrointestinal challenges serves as a testament to the power of strength and determination.
Introduction: LeeAnne and Jenny dive deep into Jenny's journey, exploring the highs and lows, the triumphs and tribulations, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.
Key Points Covered:
- The Beginning of the Journey: Jenny shares the story of how her journey with gastrointestinal challenges began, from the removal of her gallbladder to the discovery of adhesions.
- Navigating the Unknown: Facing high output, dietary restrictions, and the constant threat of obstructions, Jenny discusses the daily challenges she encounters and how she perseveres through them.
- Finding Strength in Community: Through her work at Girls With Guts, Jenny found a supportive community of individuals who understood her struggles, offering encouragement, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
- Embracing the Journey: Jenny shares how she learned to embrace her ostomy as a symbol of strength and resilience, empowering herself to live life on her own terms.
- A Message of Hope: Jenny's journey serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing gastrointestinal challenges, reminding us that with resilience, courage, and support, we can overcome even the greatest of obstacles.
Connect with Us:
- Follow The Beautiful Bag on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
- Follow LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden
- Folllow Girls with Guts on Instagram @ibdgirls
- Join the conversation and share your story using the hashtag #TheBeautifulBag
Tune in to this inspiring episode to discover the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing life's challenges with courage and grace.
Weekly Newsletter: Don't miss out on the latest episodes and updates from The Beautiful Bag! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected and receive exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and more. Subscribe Now
LeeAnne greets listeners and wishes them a happy Valentine's Day. She explains that her husband was supposed to join her for the episode but couldn't make it. Instead, she discusses the theme of love and relationships, reflecting on her own journey with her husband.
Discussion Highlights:
-
- LeeAnne shares the story of how she and her husband met and the challenges they faced blending their families.
- She discusses how their relationship evolved over the years and how they faced the unexpected challenge of her cancer diagnosis and ostomy surgery together.
- LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of communication in their relationship, sharing personal anecdotes about how they navigate difficult moments and maintain intimacy.
Key Takeaways:
-
-
- Love is about supporting each other through challenges, even when the path seems uncertain. - Communication and honesty are essential for maintaining a strong relationship. - Intimacy and connection evolve but remain important aspects of a partnership.
-
Closing Remarks: LeeAnne wishes listeners a happy Valentine's Day and previews the next episode featuring guest Jenny Harrison. She encourages listeners to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with others who may benefit from it.
Join your host, LeeAnne Hayden, in this heartening episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," coming to you from New Hampshire. This week, we are honored to have Tori Judson, a remarkable guest who shares her unique and rare journey living with HSAN IV and navigating life as a double ostomate. Diagnosed at 19, Tori's story is one of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of independence. From the challenges of not being able to feel pain, sweat, or temperature, to finding solace and support within the Instagram community, Tori's narrative is both enlightening and inspiring.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
- Tori's Rare Condition: An in-depth look into HSAN IV, its impact on Tori's life, and the journey to diagnosis.
- Life as a Double Ostomate: Tori discusses the challenges and triumphs of living with two ostomies, offering a glimpse into her daily life and the adaptations she's made.
- Finding Community: How social media and public speaking have become platforms for Tori to advocate for ostomy awareness and connect with others.
- Embracing Independence: Tori shares her excitement about moving into a group home, gaining more independence, and managing her medical care.
- The Power of Faith: A touching exploration of how faith has been a cornerstone in Tori's life, providing comfort and strength through her hospital stays and self-reflection.
Resources Mentioned:
- HSAN IV Information
- Ostomy Care Tips
- Social Media Advocacy for Ostomates
Connect with Tori Judson:
- Instagram: [Tori's Instagram Handle]
Subscribe and Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Reviews are greatly appreciated and help others discover our community.
Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:
- Instagram: [@LeeAnneHayden]
- Instagram [@thebeautifulbagpodcast]
Next Episode Teaser:
Don't miss our next episode, a special heart-to-heart session just in time for Valentine's Day. We'll explore love, relationships, and the unique ways ostomates navigate intimacy. It's an episode filled with warmth, candid stories, and insights that speak straight to the heart with my guest MY HUBBY
Episode Summary:
Join LeeAnne Hayden, broadcasting from a snowy New Hampshire loft, for an enlightening solo episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast." As we journey through the heart of winter, LeeAnne shares eye-opening statistics that underscore the vastness and diversity of the global ostomy community. With insights gathered from a recent brand awareness consultation, this episode sheds light on the 13.5 million individuals worldwide living with an ostomy, revealing the balance between male and female ostomates and touching on the myriad reasons behind their ostomy surgeries. Tune in for a deep dive into the cultural, healthcare, and individual stories that make up our ostomy community.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
- Global Ostomy Community: Discover the staggering number of ostomates worldwide and the sense of belonging it brings.
- Gender Distribution: Uncover the nearly even split between male and female ostomates and what it signifies.
- Diverse Reasons for Ostomy: From cancer to IBD and accidents, the many paths leading to ostomy surgery.
- Cultural and Healthcare Variances: How different cultures and healthcare systems impact ostomy care and perception.
- Advocacy and Awareness: The importance of sharing personal stories and how you can contribute to global awareness.
- Resources and Support: A guide to international ostomy organizations offering support, education, and advocacy.
Resources Mentioned:
- United Ostomy Associations of America: ostomy.org
- Ostomy Canada Society: ostomycanada.ca
- International Ostomy Association: ostomyinternational.org
- Colostomy UK: colostomyuk.org
- European Ostomy Association: ostomyeurope.org
- Australian Council of Stoma Associations: australianstoma.com.au
- Friends of Ostomates Worldwide: fowusa.org
(Note: Replace "#" with the actual URLs)
Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:
- Website: leeannehayden.com
- Instagram: [@LeeAnneHayden]
- Twitter: [@LeeAnneHayden]
Subscribe and Review:
Don't forget to subscribe to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Your reviews help spread awareness and connect us with more of the ostomy community.
Next Episode Teaser:
February's episodes will be all about love and relationships, just in time for Valentine's Day. Stay tuned for heartfelt stories, interviews, and LeeAnne's insights on navigating relationships with an ostomy.
In this solo episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," host LeeAnne Hayden shares invaluable insights and personal experiences about traveling with an ostomy. From preparing for your journey, whether by plane, train, or automobile, to practical advice on managing your ostomy supplies, LeeAnne covers it all. Tune in to learn about handling airport security, adjusting to different time zones, and ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Preparation for Travel: Tips for packing ostomy supplies, including flanges, bags, and emergency items.
- Air Travel with an Ostomy: Navigating airport security, managing in-flight needs, and TSA guidelines.
- Personal Stories: LeeAnne’s experiences in Honduras and tips learned from other ostomy patients.
- Hydration and Diet: The importance of staying hydrated during flights and adjusting to time zone changes.
- Ostomy-Friendly Accommodations: Advice for hotel stays and using disability bathrooms.
Resources Mentioned:
- April Wilson’s Ostomy Bag Covers and Travel Kits
- United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) Travel Certificate
- Link to UOAA website
Connect with LeeAnne:
- Website: LeeAnnehayden.com
- Instagram: @leeAnnehayden
- LinkedIn: LeeAnne's LinkedIn
Subscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on your favorite podcast platform. Your reviews and feedback are invaluable and help reach new listeners.
Contact Us: Share your own travel tips and stories related to living with an ostomy by emailing LeeAnne@leeannehayden.com
Acknowledgments: A special thanks to our community for sharing their experiences and to April Wilson for her amazing ostomy travel kits.
In This Episode:
- Celebrating 4 Years: Reflecting on the journey of 'The Beautiful Bag Podcast' now entering its fourth year.
- Gratitude: A heartfelt thank you to listeners for tuning in weekly and sharing in the stories of resilience and inspiration.
- Surviving and Thriving: Emphasizing the importance of resilience and thriving despite life's obstacles.
- Building Community: Plans to create an online presence for listeners of the podcast.
- Personal Milestones: Celebrating LeeAnne's eighth anniversary of surviving cancer and having her stoma.
- Reflecting on Change: How LeeAnne’s life transformed post-cancer, including her career shift and embracing new challenges.
- The Power of Self-Appreciation: Discussing the importance of loving and appreciating your body, especially after major health changes.
- Journaling and Meditation: Tips on how to use journaling and meditation to cope with life’s challenges and improve mental health.
- Embracing Wellness: Encouraging listeners to embrace their bodies and wellness, with specific strategies and affirmations.
- Upcoming Speaking Engagement: LeeAnne shares her upcoming visit to Hollister’s manufacturing plant in Virginia.
Connect with LeeAnne:
- Website: LeeAnneHayden.com
- Instagram: @leeannehayden
- TikTok: @leeannehayden1
- Facebook: @leeannehayden07
Free Resources:
- Confidence Building Affirmations for Ostomates: Sign up and download affirmations designed for ostomates.
- Embracing Wellness Guide: A guide to help start the new year with wellness-focused practices.
Next Episode Preview: Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and empowering discussions in our next episode.
Remember to subscribe, share, and leave a review for 'The Beautiful Bag Podcast'!
In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sara Levitt about her life with an ostomy. Sara shares her personal experiences, including her struggles and triumphs in dealing with Crohn's disease, her journey towards self-acceptance, and how she has become a source of inspiration for others.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction to the episode and guests
- Sara's visibility on Instagram and how she captured attention
- Discussing Sara's lengthy journey with her health condition
- Sara's experiences with Crohn's disease and her surgeries
- The challenges of growing up with an ostomy and societal perceptions
- Sara's journey in overcoming stigma and building self-confidence
- The significance of community support and sharing experiences
- Sara's approach to coping with and accepting her ostomy
- The transition of her ostomy from temporary to permanent
- Strategies Sara employed for self-love and awareness
- Pivotal moments in Sara's journey of self-acceptance
- The impact of sharing her ostomy story on her relationships
- The role of social media in Sara's journey and its influence on others
- Sara's advice for listeners facing similar challenges
- Concluding thoughts and words of encouragement
Key Quotes:
- "My biggest fear became my greatest blessing." - Sara Levitt
- "Never compare yourself to others; compare yourself to a past version of you." - Sara Levitt
- "The ostomy gave me my life back." - Sara Levitt
Resources Mentioned:
- Uncover Ostomy by Jessica Grossman
- Social media platforms for community support (e.g., Instagram, TikTok)
Connect with Sara Levitt:
- Instagram: Sara's Instagram
Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:
- Instagram: LeeAnne's Instagram
Closing Remarks: Host LeeAnne Hayden concludes the episode by reflecting on Sara's powerful story, emphasizing the themes of courage, self-love, and the importance of community support.
Listen to More Episodes:
- Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.
Follow The Beautiful Bag Podcast:
- Instagram: Podcast Instagram
Introduction
- LeeAnne welcomes listeners to Episode 120 of the Beautiful Bag Podcast.
- She acknowledges that it's a special solo episode and mentions that it's Christmas.
- LeeAnne shares her recent 53rd birthday celebration and expresses gratitude for life.
Celebrating Christmas
- LeeAnne talks about the significance of Christmas and her personal belief in Jesus.
- She invites listeners to share their own beliefs and stories related to faith or encounters with God.
Faith Journey
- LeeAnne discusses her Catholic upbringing and her evolving faith journey, including her practice of meditation.
Profound Meditation Experience
- LeeAnne describes a transformative meditation experience where she felt guided on a spiritual journey, encountering various images and ultimately experiencing profound peace.
Meaning and Reflection
- LeeAnne reflects on the significance of her meditation experience and the sense of peace it brought her.
Reading the Bible
- LeeAnne fast-forwards a few years to when she decided to read the Bible for the first time, starting with the New Testament, coinciding with her cancer diagnosis.
Seeking Forgiveness and Understanding
- LeeAnne shares her practice of writing a heartfelt letter to God, addressing past mistakes and seeking forgiveness.
- She emphasizes her belief in God's unconditional love and forgiveness.
Surgery and Divine Comfort
- LeeAnne recounts the day of her surgery and the profound sense of peace and comfort she felt before the procedure.
- She discusses the positive impact her faith and experiences have had on her life.
Purpose and Gratitude
- LeeAnne expresses gratitude for the Beautiful Bag Podcast and its journey, highlighting the importance of finding purpose in life.
Encouragement and Blessings
- LeeAnne encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys, seek answers, and find guidance in their faith.
- She extends warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and shares love with people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Conclusion
- LeeAnne wraps up the episode, hinting at upcoming episodes and leaving listeners with a sense of inspiration and reflection.
Hello, beautiful souls! I'm LeeAnne Hayden, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to another inspiring episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast." Whether you're tuning in during your morning coffee or unwinding at night, I want to express my deepest gratitude for being a part of our amazing community.
Episode Highlights:
- A Personal Journey: In this episode, I wanted to share my own journey dealing with blockages and how it has affected my life. For those who might not know my story, let me give you a glimpse into my world.
- Life Before My Ostomy: At 39 years old, I was deeply immersed in corporate America that turned into a successful run in network marketing.
- The Unexpected Turn: Despite my commitment to a healthy lifestyle, I started experiencing discomfort and growth in my abdomen, leading to an unexpected diagnosis of a rare sarcoma tumor.
- The Ostomy Surgery: After two surgeries and the removal of the tumor, I was left with an ostomy, which I've now had for nearly 8 years. This marked a significant change in my life, but it also allowed me to continue pursuing my passions.
- The Battle with Blockages: Over the years, I've had to navigate the challenges of ostomy life, including dealing with blockages caused by adhesions. I've learned some valuable lessons on how to manage these situations.
- Tips for Coping: In this episode, I shared tips for dealing with blockages and abdominal discomfort. One surprising remedy is sipping on Coca-Cola, which can help alleviate symptoms. I also emphasized the importance of hydration and listening to your body's signals.
Conclusion: Living with an ostomy is a journey filled with ups and downs, but it's essential to stay informed and proactive about our health. Remember, your body is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to pay attention to your body's signals, hydrate, and seek medical advice when needed.
Thank you for being part of "The Beautiful Bag" community, and if you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it on social media and tagging me @LeeAnneHayden on Instagram
- LeeAnne Hayden, host of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," welcomes listeners to Episode 118, expressing gratitude for their continual support and encouraging them to share the podcast on social media.
- Reminder: LeeAnne encourages listeners on Apple Podcasts to leave ratings and reviews to help promote the show.
Guest Introduction:
- Crystal, a double ostomate, sarcoma cancer survivor, and Crohn's disease fighter, shares her compelling journey.
- The episode focuses on her diagnosis, the challenges she faced, and her resilience in overcoming adversity.
Crystal’s Journey:
- Diagnosed in February 2022 after a severe bladder issue, leading to an ER visit and subsequent discovery of her condition.
- Underwent multiple treatments and surgeries, including chemotherapy and a complex procedure resulting in a colostomy, urostomy, and partial hysterectomy.
- Emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, as Crystal pushed for a CT scan against initial medical advice.
Challenges and Recovery:
- Discusses the mental and physical challenges post-surgery, including adapting to life with ostomy bags and managing related complications.
- Shares strategies for coping with mental health issues, including finding comfort in ASMR and Reiki videos.
- Crystal highlights the value of the ostomy community on social media for support and advice.
Life After Surgery:
- Returning to work and the accommodations made for her comfort and convenience.
- Discusses her first vacation post-surgery, a cruise, addressing the challenges and adjustments required for traveling with an ostomy.
- Shares a humorous story about managing her ostomy in an unexpected situation.
Final Thoughts:
- Crystal’s advice to listeners: Take time with healing and don’t rush the recovery process.
- LeeAnne discusses her own experiences with sarcoma, emphasizing the rarity and complexity of the condition.
In Episode #117 of "The Beautiful Bag" podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by Raphaela, a former flight attendant from the UK, to discuss her transformative journey with an ostomy bag. Diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer, Raphaela shares her story, from her initial diagnosis and surgery to how she embraced life with a stoma. We delve into the importance of self-advocacy, the impact of cancer on personal and professional life, and how she's now living life to the fullest. Don't miss this inspiring episode about strength, resilience, and finding a new focus in life.
Links:
- Follow LeeAnne Hayden on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok
- The Beautiful Bag Podcast Instagram | TikTok
This week is a repeat episode - bringing it back with the OG Jearlean Taylor
This woman is miraculous!
She has had both of her bags since she was 3 years old after a rare form of childhood cancer required her to get a Colostomy as well as a Urostomy.
After years of being apprehensive to share her story, she finally realized that she had to talk to others about her journey and raise awareness of what it was to have an Ostomy.
Her mom always told her to embrace everything that she had gone through and just share her story.
Once she was able to talk more about her Double Ostomy, the world opened up to endless possibilities. She realized that life doesn't have to stop. That you don't have to give up anything.
She started speaking more about her journey in church and to others and it opened up the door to modeling, something she never thought she had a passion for, but now it has become a dream of hers. She wants others to know that they can do whatever they want!
" I am not defined by my circumstances. You are not defined by your circumstances! You can live your life to the fullest in spite of…. In spite of it all!"
Take a listen to today's podcast! You are going to love Jearlean! I just know it!!
In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden and guest Kristi Tanner discuss Kristi's journey with colon cancer and living with an ostomy. Here are the key discussion points highlighted from the episode:
-
Struggles with Colonoscopy Approval:
- Kristi turned 50 in March 2020, just when the world was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. She didn't think she needed a colonoscopy since colon cancer wasn't in her family history.
- Kristi began experiencing symptoms such as bleeding, painful bowel movements, and fatigue, which she initially didn't attribute to colon cancer.
- It took significant effort and advocacy to get approval for a colonoscopy, including calling multiple times to ensure the process moved forward.
-
Diagnosed with Stage 3B Colon Cancer:
-
Kristi eventually received her colonoscopy and was shocked to learn she had colon cancer. The cancer was diagnosed as stage 3B, indicating potential lymph node involvement.
- They discuss the symptoms Kristi experienced, including rectal bleeding, frequent bowel movements, cramping, and fatigue.
-
Treatment Plan and Challenges:
-
Kristi's treatment plan involved radiation and chemotherapy before surgery.
- She faced conflicting opinions about whether she would need an ostomy, and there was uncertainty regarding the order of surgery and chemotherapy.
-
Coping with Ostomy:
-
Kristi discusses her initial hesitation and concerns about living with an ostomy. She shares how an ostomy nurse helped her come to terms with it, emphasizing that the ostomy saved her life.
- She describes how she came to embrace her ostomy, named it Stella, and found humor in the situation.
-
Post-Treatment Activities:
-
Kristi shares how she maintained an active lifestyle after her treatment, working out regularly, even doing a Spartan Race with an ostomy.
- They highlight the importance of staying active for physical and mental health.
-
Spreading Awareness:
-
Kristi encourages listeners to advocate for themselves and get necessary medical appointments promptly.
- She emphasizes the need to remove the stigma associated with ostomies and discusses the importance of talking about colon cancer to raise awareness.
Kristi's story serves as an inspiring example of resilience, advocacy, and embracing life with an ostomy after facing colon cancer.
In this heartfelt episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," host LeeAnne Hayden welcomes guest Nadia Di Rienzo, who shares her remarkable journey of resilience, living with an ostomy, and beating cancer. Nadia's story is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of advocacy in the ostomy community.
Key Takeaways:
- Nadia's Health Journey: Nadia's journey begins with her diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) at the tender age of 15. Her story underscores the challenges of navigating chronic illness from a young age.
- Medical Trials and IBD Management: Nadia talks about her years of managing UC through medical trials, medications, and the ups and downs of the disease.
- Unexpected Discovery: In the midst of a clinical trial, Nadia experienced symptoms that led to an unexpected revelation—a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
- The Surgery: Nadia's journey takes a dramatic turn as she undergoes a total proctocolectomy, resulting in an ileostomy. She discusses the shock and adjustments that came with the surgery.
- Post-Op Life: Nine months post-surgery, Nadia reflects on the challenges of adjusting to her new life with an ostomy. She shares insights about her sleep patterns and the adjustments she's made.
- Finding Strength in Exercise: Physical activity, a combination of weights and cardio, has been a crucial part of Nadia's post-op journey. She describes how she works with a physiotherapist to strengthen her abdomen safely.
- Dietary Adjustments: Nadia discusses the foods she can now enjoy and those she avoids to prevent blockages, including her love for grapefruit and cautiousness about sushi and certain vegetables.
- Wardrobe Choices: Clothing choices have been a part of her journey, and she details the adjustments she made in her post-op wardrobe.
- Advocacy and Breaking Stigmas: Nadia emphasizes the importance of sharing her journey on social media, normalizing ostomies, and raising awareness for IBD, colorectal cancer, and living with an ostomy.
- Facing Fears: Nadia opens up about the fears and anxieties she experienced regarding her children's understanding of her health challenges and how she managed to address them.
- A Message of Hope: Nadia's story is a testament to not fearing ostomies; she encourages those facing similar challenges to embrace their second chance at life and find positivity in the journey.
Connect with Us:
- Follow Nadia on social media and her blog: @gutsygirldiaries
-
-
- https://gutsygirldiaries.com/
-
-
- Connect with LeeAnne Hayden on https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
-
-
- https://leeannehayden.com/
-
-
Summary: In this inspiring episode of The Beautiful Bag, LeeAnne sits down with Patrick, also known as the "Ostomy Athlete" on Instagram. Patrick shares his remarkable journey of overcoming challenges and achieving incredible feats in extreme sports and mountaineering while living with an ostomy. His story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways:
- Patrick's Introduction: Learn about Patrick, the "Ostomy Athlete," and his background.
- Embracing Extreme Sports: Discover how Patrick got into extreme sports and mountaineering.
- Living with an Ostomy: Patrick discusses his journey of living with an ostomy and how it has impacted his life.
- Overcoming Challenges: Hear about the unique challenges Patrick faces while pursuing his passion in extreme environments.
- Inspiring Others: Patrick's story serves as an inspiration to others in the ostomy community and beyond.
- Never Lose Hope: Patrick emphasizes the importance of never giving up and maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity.
Connect with Us:
- Follow Patrick, the "Ostomy Athlete," on Instagram @theostomyathlete.
- Visit Patrick's website theostomyathlete.com for more information and resources.
- Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden. & @thebeautifulbagpodcast
- & at her website LeeAnnehayden.com
Episode #112: Navigating Life with an Ostomy Bag - Tips and Insights
In this week's episode we discuss:
- Carly's Ostomy Journey: She shares how she came to be in an ostomy
- Adjusting to Life with an Ostomy: What it took to adjust to having one.
- Advocacy and Finding Support: How she found and created her support team
- Advocacy Efforts and Challenges: She shares her advocacy work and how to find yours.
- Promoting Awareness and Support: How important awareness is.
- Understanding the Significance of a Stoma: A clear definition of what a stoma is and its significance in an ostomate's life.
- Advancements in Ostomy Bags: A discussion on the remarkable progress in ostomy bag design, focusing on enhanced comfort and discretion.
- The Great Bag Cover Debate: The age-old debate about whether to cover ostomy bags with decorative covers.
- Navigating Skin Issues: Carly's personal journey of dealing with skin issues and the pursuit of the perfect fit for ostomy care.
- Convexity and Bag Types: The importance of convexity for some ostomates and Carly's transition from deep to soft convexity.
- Adhesive Remover Spray: The vital role of adhesive remover spray in ensuring gentle bag changes and skin care.
- Traveling with Ostomy Supplies: Tips for always being prepared while traveling, especially when flying and going through security.
- Emergency Supplies: The importance of carrying essential supplies in your carry-on luggage and the potential support from hospitals in emergencies.
- Embracing Acceptance and Self-Love: An empowering message to ostomates, emphasizing the significance of self-acceptance and embracing one's uniqueness as a catalyst for personal growth.
This episode of the Beautiful Bag Podcast provides a comprehensive exploration of life with an ostomy bag, offering emotional support and a treasure trove of practical tips. Carly Allen's journey and her remarkable advocacy work serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment, inspiring ostomates worldwide to embrace their own journeys with acceptance and self-love.
Connect with us:
Hollister Youtube video :
LeeAnne on Instagram
Carly on Instagram
The Beautiful Bag on Instagram
Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Beautiful Bag Podcast with your host, LeeAnne Hayden. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with a remarkable guest, Taylor Mitchell. Taylor's journey through health challenges is anything but typical, and her resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Join us as we delve into Taylor's unique story and learn about her experiences and her life-changing journey.
Episode Highlights:
- LeeAnne introduces her guest, Taylor Mitchell, and shares how she came across Taylor's story on Instagram.
- Taylor reflects on her health before her journey began, describing herself as a relatively healthy child who rarely visited the doctor.
- At the age of 20, Taylor experienced a sudden health crisis, including nausea, stomach pain, and exhaustion. She recounts a frightening episode where she temporarily lost her vision, which led her to seek medical attention.
- Taylor describes her initial misdiagnosis and struggles with doctors who couldn't pinpoint the cause of her symptoms.
- Over the course of several years, Taylor's health deteriorated, leading her to see specialists for various systems in her body. She was put on multiple medications to manage her symptoms.
- Taylor discusses the emotional toll her health issues took on her, as well as the impact on her college and work life.
- Taylor shares her journey of finding the right medical care, including visiting the Mayo Clinic, where she received a diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic constipation.
- The importance of pelvic floor therapy in Taylor's recovery and how it helped her regain control over her muscles and alleviate incontinence.
- Taylor's decision to undergo a loop ileostomy surgery after years of suffering from chronic constipation and other symptoms.
- How Taylor's Instagram journey began as she sought information and resources for managing her ostomy. She realized there was a lack of education and decided to share her experiences with others.
- The positive impact Taylor's Instagram presence had on people who were struggling with ostomies and gastrointestinal issues. She provided support and advice to those in need.
- Taylor's reflection on the improvements in her overall health and quality of life following her ileostomy surgery.
- Her decision to keep her ileostomy due to unresolved rectal issues and her optimism for the future.
- Taylor's gratitude for the support of her husband, who also has Crohn's disease and an ostomy, and how they've navigated their health journeys together.
Join us in applauding Taylor Mitchell's incredible resilience and determination in the face of health challenges. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of seeking the right medical care. If you or someone you know is dealing with similar health issues, Taylor's story may provide guidance, hope, and a sense of community. Thank you for tuning in to The Beautiful Bag Podcast. Stay connected for more inspiring stories and conversations.
Please remember to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts and share it with friends and family who may benefit from these uplifting and informative discussions.
Connect with Us:
- Follow The Beautiful Bag Podcast on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
- Visit the website:https://leeannehayden.com/
- Hollister Incorporated Hydration Video
Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options.
In this episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," LeeAnne is joined by a special guest, Tina, known as "Own Your Crohn's" on Instagram. Tina shares her inspiring and deeply personal journey of living with Crohn's disease and undergoing an ostomy procedure. Her story is one of resilience, breaking cultural stigmas, and finding strength in adversity.
Key Takeaways:
- Tina's Crohn's Journey: Tina was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis over 17 years ago, and her disease progressed from mild to severe. She faced challenges with limited treatment options and cultural stigma.
- Biological Therapies: Tina tried various advanced therapies and biologics, but they did not provide relief, leading her to consider surgery.
- Facing Surgery: At the age of 24, Tina was confronted with the prospect of surgery. She underwent a J pouch surgery, but it didn't work out due to the development of complications related to Crohn's disease.
- Cultural Stigma: Tina highlights the cultural taboos and stigma associated with ostomies in certain communities. She shares how these stigmas can affect marriage, temple visits, and daily life.
- Mental Health Challenges: Tina discusses the mental and emotional toll of living with an ostomy and how societal pressures can impact one's self-esteem and mental well-being.
- Overcoming Stigmas: Tina emphasizes the importance of breaking through these stigmas and advocating for acceptance and inclusion in all communities, regardless of health conditions.
- Sexual Health: The podcast delves into the topic of how ostomies and fistulas can affect sexual health. Tina and LeeAnne share their personal experiences and offer insights into maintaining a fulfilling sex life.
- Quality of Life with an Ostomy: Tina shares how her ostomy has improved her quality of life, allowing her to enjoy activities and experiences she couldn't before.
- Marriage and Acceptance: Tina discusses the complexities of marriage in the context of chronic illness and how open communication is essential for understanding and acceptance within relationships.
Tina's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-acceptance. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has embraced her ostomy and become an advocate for breaking the taboos surrounding ostomies and chronic illnesses.
Connect with Us:
- Link to Hollister Video - How to Manage Emotions
- Follow "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on Instagram @thebeautifulbagpodcast.
- Connect with Tina on Instagram @ownyourcrohns.
- Visit Tina's blog and advocacy work for more information on living with Crohn's disease and ostomies.
Introduction: In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by special guest Dr. John Heryer, a colorectal surgeon and an ostomate. Dr. Heryer shares his inspiring journey and insights into living with an ostomy, as well as discussing the topic of hernias and their prevention.
Discussion Highlights:
- Dr. John Heryer's background as a colorectal surgeon and an ostomate.
- The importance of embracing your new life and appreciating good health.
- The challenges and complications related to hernias in ostomates.
- Strategies for preventing hernias, including avoiding abdominal straining and strengthening the abdominal core.
- The significance of pelvic tilts and core-strengthening exercises for post-surgery recovery.
- The unique perspective of a surgeon turned ostomate in understanding the patient experience.
- The use of support belts for added security and comfort.
- Dr. Heryer's personal experience with prednisone and his advice for tapering it gradually to mitigate side effects.
- The value of seeking objective opinions and advice from healthcare professionals.
- Life after ostomy surgery and the pursuit of strength and fitness goals.
- Dr. Heryer's transition to options trading and the flexibility it offers.
- Connecting with Dr. Heryer via email for further questions and potential presentations.
Conclusion: Dr. John Heryer's remarkable journey from being a colorectal surgeon to an ostomate highlights the importance of embracing life's changes and appreciating good health. This episode provides valuable insights into preventing hernias, managing prednisone tapering, and seeking objective advice. Dr. Heryer's positive outlook on life post-surgery serves as an inspiration to all ostomates.
For more information or to contact Dr. John Heryer, please email him at John.Heryer@gmail.com.
Connect with LeeAnne at HERE
In this week's Episode I speak with Amalia (The Ostomy Dietitian)
Amalia's Early Health Struggles
Amalia discusses her lifelong GI problems, from childhood to college, including vomiting, reflux, and dietary restrictions. She mentions her appendectomy during her college years.
The Onset of Severe GI Symptoms
Amalia's journey into adulthood is marked by the escalation of GI symptoms. She talks about her early career as a dietitian in a high-stress environment and the daily struggles she faced with pain, mucus, blood, and frequent bowel movements. The challenge of advocating for herself during medical appointments is highlighted.
Misdiagnoses and Continued Struggles
Amalia's frustration with repeated misdiagnoses and lack of effective treatment is shared. The doctors' focus on her rectum is mentioned, despite escalating symptoms. She describes living with prolapse, fissures, and fistulas, all abnormal for pelvic floor issues. The couple's move to Canada and her experiences with the healthcare system there are discussed.
The Turning Point and the Decision to Act
Amalia's decision to seek specialized care in the U.S. after facing delays in Canada is explained. She emphasizes the importance of taking control of her health and discusses her husband's initial shock at the severity of her condition. The toll of her condition on her mental and physical health is highlighted.
Finding Hope Through Surgery
Amalia's journey to the Cleveland Clinic in Florida and her encounter with a renowned colorectal surgeon are discussed. Her decision to undergo a temporary ileostomy is explained, despite having no formal diagnosis. The relief she experienced after surgery and the end of eight years of pain are highlighted. Amelia reflects on the resilience of her personality.
The Post-Surgery Recovery and Challenges
Amalia shares her recovery experience, including a month-long hospital stay. The adjustment to life with an ileostomy is discussed. Unexpected abdominal pain after surgery and its connection to her first-ever period at age 29 are mentioned. The importance of her medical team's support during the recovery period is emphasized.
Continuing the Journey
Amalia's determination to start a family and her pursuit of this goal are discussed, highlighting her husband's supportive role. The decision to have her colon removed and her path to healing and starting a family are explored.
The Surprising Second Pregnancy
Amalia shares her remarkable experience of becoming pregnant naturally after deciding to pursue surrogacy. The challenges of managing pregnancy with an ostomy and diversion colitis are discussed.
The Struggles Continue
Amalia discusses the difficulties she faced with her second pregnancy, including blockages and preterm birth. The emotional toll of being separated from her newborn son, who needed NICU care, is explored. Her determination to continue breastfeeding despite the challenges is mentioned.
Unexpected Complications and Another Surgery
Amalia reveals that she faced unexpected issues with her ostomy, leading to the need for revision surgery. The emotional and physical toll of undergoing surgery with a young baby at home is discussed. The importance of resilience in the face of ongoing health challenges is emphasized.
Wrapping Up and Looking to the Future
LeeAnne and Amalia reflect on the incredible journey Amelia has been on, from ostomy surgery to motherhood. Amelia shares her perspective on the unique gifts and challenges of her experience.
Connect with Amalia on Instagram
Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram
Intro (00:06-00:19):
- LeeAnne warmly welcomes the audience to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast."
- The special guest, Allison, is introduced, and the host shares their exciting meeting at the UOAA annual convention.
- Reflecting on the thrill of meeting individuals in person after connecting with them on social media.
Introduction to Allison's Story (00:19-01:55):
- Allison's background in working at the American Cancer Society and her journey with colorectal cancer.
- Being diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 12 and experiencing remission for several years.
- The sudden onset of unusual symptoms leading to a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
- Emphasis on the importance of regular check-ups and colonoscopies.
- Describing the shock and challenges of facing a cancer diagnosis and the need for prompt medical attention.
The Journey Begins (01:55-02:33):
- Allison's life before cancer and her work in cancer research in Houston, Texas.
- Receiving a clean bill of health during a previous colonoscopy.
- The gradual onset of concerning symptoms leading up to the cancer diagnosis.
- Symptoms and Diagnosis (02:33-05:46):
- Allison's experience with changing bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
- The discovery of a blockage and initial uncertainty about the diagnosis.
- The shocking moment when Allison was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
- Seeking multiple surgical opinions and ultimately choosing MD Anderson for treatment.
- The importance of personalized care and finding the right medical team.
Quality of Life with an Ostomy (05:46-07:53):
- Discussion about the misconceptions and fears surrounding ostomies.
- Allison's initial hesitation and her decision to opt for a J-pouch after surgery.
- Reflecting on how she would make different choices if she knew then what she knows now.
- The importance of education and dispelling myths about life with an ostomy.
Overcoming Preconceived Notions (07:53-10:50):
- Addressing common questions people have about living with an ostomy, including eating normal food, wearing regular clothes, and concerns about relationships.
- Alison's personal experiences with dating and relationships after having an ostomy.
- The role of the ostomy community in providing support, sharing stories, and breaking stigmas.
- The positive response to Allison's social media posts about her ostomy.
- Embracing and Naming the Ostomy (10:50-13:18):
- Discussing the significance of naming the ostomy, with Allison sharing the name "Phil."
- Allison's experience of wearing a bikini for the first time and embracing her scars and ostomy.
- The power of community and connecting with like-minded individuals who understand.
- The growth and support Allison received through social media.
Advocacy and Community Engagement (13:18-15:47):
- Allison's advocacy work, including volunteering with cancer support programs and ostomy associations.
- The importance of mentoring and supporting individuals considering or living with an ostomy.
- The impact of sharing personal stories and experiences to help others.
- Encouraging people to live life to the fullest and not let fear of an ostomy hold them back.
The Top Three Questions (15:47-End):
- The most common questions Allison receives about ostomies: eating normal food, wearing regular clothes, and concerns about relationships.
- The role of education and dispelling misconceptions about life with an ostomy.
- The importance of living life fully and not letting an ostomy prevent someone from enjoying life.
Podcast Outro:
- The host expresses gratitude to Allison for sharing her inspiring story and valuable insights.
- Encourages listeners to connect with Allison on social media and stay tuned for more episodes of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast."
Resource Links:
- Allison's TikTok
- Allison's Instagram
Closing Message from Allison:
"An ostomy is not the end of your life; it is just the beginning of your life."
Join LeeAnne Hayden and special guest Meghan Brown for an inspiring and informative episode of "The Beautiful Bag." In this conversation, they explore their journeys living with ostomy bags, discuss the challenges they've overcome, and share valuable insights on topics like pregnancy with an ostomy and the power of a positive mindset.
Segment 1: Meghan's Crohn's Journey
- [00:00] Intro: LeeAnne Hayden introduces Meghan Brown, sharing their mutual admiration for each other.
- [02:37] Meghan's Crohn's Diagnosis: Meghan's journey with Crohn's disease began at a young age when she was diagnosed at 13. She endured a year of misdiagnosis and the struggles of managing her health while navigating high school.
- [04:15] Remission and High School: After starting Remicade, Meghan experienced significant improvements in her health. However, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a teenager dealing with steroids and rumors about her absence from school.
- [07:27] College and Recurrence: Meghan's life took a positive turn when she met her husband, but her sophomore year of college marked a recurrence of her illness. She explored various treatments, including Remicade, but encountered complications.
- [08:42] Decision for Surgery: A routine colonoscopy revealed precancerous signs, leading Meghan to make a challenging decision. She discusses the emotional and mental aspects of choosing to undergo surgery and embracing an ostomy bag to eliminate the risk of cancer.
- [09:37] Mental Health and Support: Meghan emphasizes the role of mental health throughout her journey and the importance of her parents' unwavering support. She shares how her family's positive outlook helped her during difficult times.
Segment 2: Overcoming Challenges and Acceptance
- [13:10] Balancing Vanity and Health: Meghan and LeeAnne discuss the difficult decision they faced regarding surgery and ostomy bags. Both admit to struggling with the idea of having an ostomy bag due to aesthetic concerns.
- [16:06] Perspective Shift: Meghan reflects on the moment her perspective shifted during a conversation with her surgeon. He highlighted the importance of considering her future as a young mom and how her decision would impact her loved ones.
- [20:09] Privacy vs. Openness: LeeAnne and Meghan discuss the balance between privacy and openness regarding their ostomy bags. Meghan commends LeeAnne for being open on social media and showing her ostomy bag.
- [22:15] Meghan's Social Media Journey: Meghan shares her reasons for joining social media after her surgery and how sharing her journey helped her heal, find acceptance, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
- [24:06] Embracing Acceptance: Meghan describes her social media journey as a healing process that allowed her to accept her body and gain body confidence. LeeAnne shares her own experience with healing through acceptance.
Segment 3: Pregnancy with an Ostomy and Self-Advocacy
- [28:11] Hidden Community: LeeAnne and Meghan highlight the curiosity and lack of awareness surrounding ostomies and the need for more visibility.
- [29:53] Pregnancy and Ostomy: Meghan shares her remarkable journey of having two healthy pregnancies with an ostomy. She emphasizes the need for more information and awareness around pregnancy with an ostomy.
- [35:03] Postpartum Challenges: Meghan discusses postpartum challenges related to her skin's reaction to ostomy products after childbirth and the importance of self-advocacy during life-changing events like pregnancy.
- [38:01] Self-Advocacy: LeeAnne and Meghan underscore the significance of self-advocacy, particularly for individuals with ostomies facing pregnancy. They stress the importance of open communication with healthcare professionals.
- [43:31] Mindset and Positivity: Meghan emphasizes the power of a positive mindset in coping with challenges and shares her personal journey of transforming her outlook.
Segment 4: Embracing Life and Conclusion
- [46:06] Embracing Life: LeeAnne and Meghan discuss the importance of embracing life, even in the face of challenges. They acknowledge the value of returning to a positive perspective after moments of sadness and frustration.
- [46:55] Outro: LeeAnne Hayden expresses gratitude to Meghan Brown for sharing her experiences and insights on the podcast. She invites listeners to stay tuned for more episodes of "The Beautiful Bag" and the valuable stories and discussions it brings to light.
Connect with Meghan & LeeAnne on Instagram
Connect with LeeAnne on Website
Introduction:
- LeeAnne introduces the episode and mentions the recent UOAA conference attended by this group of seven ostomates.
- The host highlights the positive experience and the camaraderie they shared
Guest Introductions:
- Jearlean Taylor, Angie Davenport, Keyla Caba, Kimberly Coleman, Rob Harrison and Janeca Werts are introduced as the podcast guests.
Discussion:
- LeeAnneand guests discuss their takeaways from the UOAA conference.
- Jeneca talks about her first-time experience, emphasizing the overwhelming positivity and unity among the ostomates.
- Angie shares her delight in meeting fellow ostomates in person, bonding with LeeAnne (the host) and Kimberly, and the sense of unity they felt.
- Kayla mentions the connections they made, the valuable lessons learned in the ileostomy class, and the diversity of attendees.
- Kimberly speaks about her second time attending the convention and how it provided a different perspective as an ostomate of almost eight years.
- Rob, the only male attendee, talks about the inspiration and love he felt from everyone and how it motivates him to stay positive.
- Jearlean talks about this being only her second time attending the event, speaking at it and how she loved how we all came together.
The group also deleves deep into the sessions that they attended and the lessons that they all learned during the 3 days.
Conclusion:
- The podcast concludes with a sense of unity and gratitude for the convention's positive impact.
www.ostomy.org
Introduction:
- Host: LeeAnne Hayden
- Guest: Stephanie Brenners
[00:00] Introduction:
- LeeAnne introduces the podcast and the guest, Stephanie Brenners.
- LeeAnne and Stephanie met at an ostomy convention.
- Stephanie's journey with chronic illness and surgeries is an inspiration to others.
[0:41] Welcome Stephanie to the Podcast:
- LeeAnne welcomes Stephanie to the podcast.
- Stephanie expresses her gratitude for being on the show.
[1:18] Stephanie's Journey with Chronic Illness:
- Stephanie shares her story, starting with her diagnosis of Crohn's disease in 2001 during high school.
- She quickly received a diagnosis and tried various medications, including steroids and Remicade.
- Stephanie discusses her journey through three surgeries: subtotal colectomy, J-pouch creation, and J-pouch closure.
- She talks about her challenges during college and how she learned to manage her condition.
[5:10] Living Life Despite Chronic Illness:
- Stephanie reflects on her determination to live life to the fullest despite her condition.
- She shares her experiences of traveling and studying abroad, even when advised against it by doctors.
- Stephanie highlights the importance of making the most of life's opportunities.
[11:18] Embracing Life with a Permanent Ostomy:
- Stephanie discusses her decision to undergo a permanent ostomy in 2018 after her J-pouch surgeries.
- She emphasizes the positive impact it had on her quality of life.
- Stephanie also talks about her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy in 2019.
- She acknowledges the resilience and adaptability required to navigate these challenges.
[14:34] Overcoming Hesitations and Fears:
- Stephanie shares her initial hesitation and fears about undergoing surgeries.
- She talks about the anticipatory anxiety and the mental struggle to make the decision.
- Stephanie encourages others to find ways to cope with the anxiety and fear surrounding surgeries.
[16:50] Mental Health and Chronic Illness:
- LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the importance of mental health when living with chronic illness.
- Stephanie highlights the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and trauma among individuals with chronic illnesses.
- She explains how these conditions manifest and affect patients' daily lives.
[20:05] Coping Strategies for Mental Health:
- Stephanie discusses various coping strategies for managing mental health, including psychoeducation.
- She emphasizes the significance of connecting with one's body and exploring sensations.
- Stephanie encourages grounding exercises, joyful movement, breathwork, and sensory support.
- She mentions referring patients to somatic therapists and EMDR specialists for trauma-related issues.
- Stephanie promotes self-compassion and self-care.
[24:05] Connecting with the Body:
- LeeAnne shares her experience with somatic therapy and connecting with her body.
- Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's protective mechanisms.
- She encourages the use of pronouns to personalize the body's needs and feelings.
- Stephanie suggests practicing self-compassion and treating oneself as a caring guardian.
[26:07] Conclusion:
- LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the ongoing journey of self-love and self-acceptance.
- Stephanie reminds everyone that navigating life with a chronic illness is a collective journey.
- LeeAnne thanks Stephanie for sharing her inspiring story and insights.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden introduces somatic coach Keri Ford, who specializes in helping women unlock their full potential and reconnect with their authentic selves through somatic work. The discussion explores the concept of somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and the mind-body connection. Listeners are guided through a somatic check-in exercise, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and tuning into their bodies to foster healing and self-discovery. The conversation delves into various types of trauma, the impact of unresolved experiences on the body, and how somatic work can lead to transformation and personal growth. Keri and LeeAnne also explore the balance between contentment and progression, offering insights into aligning mind and body for holistic well-being. The episode concludes with a reminder of the body's resilience and the power of self-healing through the mind-body connection.
Key Discussion Points:
- Introduction to somatic coach Keri Ford and her work in helping women unlock their potential.
- Explanation of somatic work, nervous system regulation, and the mind-body connection.
- Guided somatic check-in exercise to help listeners connect with their bodies and become more aware of their sensations.
- Exploration of different types of trauma and their impact on the body.
- Discussion of the importance of slowing down, listening to the body, and making new choices for healing.
- Balancing contentment with personal growth and embracing both acceptance and expansion.
- Mention of Dr. Joe Dispenza's work on self-healing through the power of the mind.
Guest: Keri Ford, Somatic Coach
Host: LeeAnne Hayden
Links:
- Elevate with Keri Website
- Keri on Instagram
- Keri on Facebook
- LeeAnne's Website
- LeeAnne on Instagram
- LeeAnne on Facebook
Note: The information provided in this episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Listeners are advised to consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance and support.
Introduction:
- LeeAnne introduces the episode and the overarching theme of confidence and self-discovery.
- Briefly mentions her participation in the "Own Your Future" challenge and the insights gained.
Segment 1: The Resonating Question (0:57)
- Discusses Jay Shetty's observation about Google search suggestions reflecting common insecurities.
- Explores the significance of the question "Will I ever be enough?" and its impact on self-esteem.
Segment 2: Battling Imposter Syndrome (4:12)
- LeeAnne shares personal experiences of imposter syndrome as a podcast host.
- Highlights the universal nature of imposter syndrome and its prevalence even among accomplished individuals.
Segment 3: Strategies for Confidence Building (8:28)
- Explores practical strategies to combat self-doubt and nurture lasting confidence.
- Emphasizes the importance of daily affirmations, challenging negative thoughts, and reframing perspectives.
Segment 4: The Impact of Sharing (12:40)
- Discusses the power of sharing stories and embracing vulnerability.
- Highlights how stepping out of comfort zones empowers individuals and inspires others on similar journeys.
Segment 5: Your Path to Empowerment (16:03)
- Invites listeners to take action by tuning into the episode and accessing the free Confidence Guide.
- Encourages engagement and connection through social media, emphasizing the creation of a supportive community.
Conclusion:
- LeeAnne wraps up the episode, expressing gratitude for the podcast community and the journey of empowerment.
- Teases the upcoming episode on self-awareness and its role in personal growth.
Links:
FREE CONFIDENCE GUIDE
Introduction:
- Welcome to the Beautiful Bag Podcast with host LeeAnne Hayden.
- Today's episode: Navigating intimate relationships and dating with an ostomy.
- LeeAnne's 16th wedding anniversary and reflections on her journey.
- Preview of upcoming episode featuring her husband's perspective.
- Goal: Share insights and experiences to guide those facing similar challenges.
Embrace Yourself and Be Confident:
- Importance of self-love and acceptance.
- Your ostomy doesn't define your worth or ability to love and be loved.
- Cultivate confidence and self-assurance; they are attractive qualities.
- Embrace your uniqueness and share your journey openly when comfortable.
- Advice for dating: Be confident, embrace yourself, and be open about your ostomy.
- Choose supportive partners who appreciate and value you.
Honest Communication is Key:
- Honesty as the foundation of strong relationships.
- Importance of open communication and vulnerability.
- For those dating: Have a sincere conversation about your ostomy when the time feels right.
- Encouragement to surround yourself with empathetic and understanding individuals.
- For married couples: Continue sharing feelings and experiences related to your ostomy.
- Building trust and understanding within the relationship.
Intimacy and Ostomy:
- Intimacy is vital in romantic relationships.
- For dating: Physical intimacy may require open communication and experimentation.
- Take time to explore and find what works best for both partners.
- Advice for married couples: Continue exploring intimacy and deepening your connection.
- Emphasize the importance of open communication and understanding.
Conclusion:
- Recap of key points: Embrace yourself, communicate honestly, and nurture intimacy.
- Your ostomy doesn't hinder your ability to have a loving relationship.
- Encouragement to cherish and love yourself.
- Upcoming event: UOAA conference in Houston, Texas. LeeAnne will be at the Hollister booth.
- Reach out and share your experiences, and remember, love knows no boundaries, ostomies or not.
Journey of Strength and Resilience:
- LeeAnne reflects on the incredible stories shared on the podcast.
- Highlights the diversity of guests who have faced challenges with strength and resilience.
- Acknowledges her own journey with an ostomy due to a rare sarcoma tumor.
- Expresses gratitude for the vulnerability and courage displayed by guests, inspiring listeners to embrace their own strength.
Breaking Stereotypes and Changing Perspectives:
- Discusses how the podcast has shattered stereotypes associated with ostomies.
- Emphasizes that ostomies can affect individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
- Explores how guests have defied societal norms and pursued their dreams despite ostomy surgeries.
- Encourages listeners to see beyond preconceived notions and embrace the diversity within the ostomy community.
Inspiring Stories of Triumph:
- Highlights specific guests who have triumphed over adversity.
- Shares the story of Colin Jarvis, a former Olympic runner who overcame ostomy surgeries to become a marathon runner and co-owner of Stealth Belts.
- Shares the story of Jerilyn Taylor, who has lived with a dual ostomy since childhood and became a model, challenging societal stigmas.
- Expresses admiration for the many other inspiring individuals who have shared their stories on the podcast.
Support, Connection, and a Growing Community:
- Acknowledges the power of community formed through The Beautiful Bag Podcast.
- Expresses gratitude for the support and connections made with listeners and guests.
- Highlights the partnership with Hollister, Inc., a leading ostomy care company, in spreading awareness and supporting the podcast's mission.
A Beautiful Bag: A Second Chance at Life:
- Explains the significance of the podcast's name, "The Beautiful Bag."
- Discusses how the ostomy bag represents a second chance at life for many individuals.
- Emphasizes the gratitude for this second chance and the reminder that not everyone gets this opportunity.
- Encourages listeners to recognize they are not alone and that a supportive community exists.
Conclusion:
- Expresses heartfelt gratitude to listeners for their continued support.
- Encourages sharing stories and spreading awareness to make a difference in the lives of individuals with ostomies.
- Invites listeners to reach out and share their own stories for future episodes.
- Provides contact information and website details for submission of stories: Reach out to LeeAnne Hayden at leeannehayden.com or on Instagram @leeannehayden.
- Expresses excitement for future episodes and the growth of The Beautiful Bag Podcast.
Note: Timestamps and guest names mentioned in the show can be found in the podcast episode for reference.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag, join host LeeAnne as she engages in a heartfelt conversation with the incredible Kayla Glumac. They explore the journey of self-acceptance and empowerment, highlighting Kayla's inspiring story and the lessons she has learned along the way.
Kayla opens up about her experience living with an ostomy bag and how she embraced her unique circumstances with resilience and courage. She shares the challenges she faced and the transformative power of self-love and body positivity. Prepare to be inspired as Kayla's authenticity and vulnerability shine through every word.
Don't miss this empowering episode, filled with valuable insights and a renewed perspective on self-acceptance. Tune in now to listen to the full conversation on or visit LeeAnne's website for more information.
Connect with LeeAnne: 🌐 Website: leeannehayden.com 📷 Instagram: @leeannehayden
Connect with Kayla: 📷 Instagram: @kayla.glumac
Welcome to another fabulous episode of The Beautiful Bag Podcast with your host, LeeAnne Hayden. In this empowering episode, we dive into the impact of ostomy on body image and strategies for self-acceptance. Let's redefine beauty together!
Ostomy surgery saves lives but brings changes that affect self-image. Society's narrow beauty standards don't reflect our diverse human experience. Ostomy challenges norms, presenting an opportunity to redefine beauty.
Strategies for self-acceptance:
- Knowledge is power: Learn about your condition, surgical procedure, and ostomy equipment. Visit www.leeannehayden.com for resources.
- Seek support: Connect with support groups and online communities. Reach out to Leanne on Instagram (@leeannehayden), Facebook (@leeannehayden07), or LinkedIn (@leeannehayden).
- Surround yourself with positive influences: Challenge societal standards, celebrate diversity, and share your story. Your voice matters!
Remember, your ostomy doesn't define you. Embrace your challenges, passions, and the beautiful person you are beyond your physical appearance. Self-acceptance is an ongoing adventure. Join the Beautiful Bag community, download the free confidence guide at www.leeannehayden.com, and rock your beautiful bag with pride.
In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, we are joined by Jacqueline, a talented ice skater who has overcome the challenges of living with Crohn's disease. Jacqueline shares her inspiring journey and how she continues to pursue her passion for ice skating despite her health condition.
Episode Highlights:
- Living with Crohn's Disease: Jacqueline reveals that she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 15, and her mother also has the same condition. With half her life spent battling the disease, she emphasizes the importance of spreading awareness and breaking stigmas associated with Crohn's disease.
- Trial and Error: Jacqueline discusses the challenges of finding the right medications to manage her Crohn's disease. She shares her experience of trying various treatments and going through different medications, including biologics, to achieve remission.
- Making the Decision for Surgery: After years of managing her condition with medication, Jacqueline faced a severe flare in 2020. Fearing the potential loss of her colon, she made the difficult decision to undergo surgery to disconnect her small intestine from her colon. Despite the surgeon's warning of a low success rate, Jacqueline remained determined to save her colon.
- Embracing Life with an Ostomy: Jacqueline reflects on her post-surgery life with an ileostomy bag. Initially concerned about how her life as an athlete, particularly as a professional ice skater, would be affected, she discovered a Facebook group dedicated to ostomy lifestyle athletes. Witnessing the accomplishments of fellow athletes with ostomies, she realized that her passion for ice skating would not be hindered.
- Returning to the Ice: Jacqueline shares her joy of returning to the ice after her surgeries. She highlights how, while performing, she feels completely in her element, and her ostomy bag becomes inconspicuous. Her dedication to skating and her ability to overcome obstacles have remained unwavering.
- A Special Call from Michelle Kwan: Jacqueline recounts a remarkable moment in her journey when Michelle Kwan, an iconic figure skater, called her during a challenging time. Michelle offered words of encouragement, assuring Jacqueline that she would be able to come back from her illness just as she had overcome injuries during her own career. This phone call served as a tremendous inspiration for Jacqueline.
Jacqueline's story serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals living with Crohn's disease. Despite the obstacles she has faced, she continues to pursue her passion for ice skating and inspire others with her unwavering spirit. Her journey reminds us that with the right mindset and support, we can overcome any challenge and live a fulfilling life.
Thank you for joining this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of individuals who triumph over adversity. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Until next time!
This weeks podcast episode is about how to feel confident and manage an ostomy bag while at the beach during the summer.
In this solo episode I provide five tips for feeling confident and comfortable, including
- choosing the right swimsuit
- using a waterproof ostomy bag cover
- packing extra supplies
- being prepared for bathroom breaks
The most important this is the importance of practicing self-love and confidence when dealing with an ostomy bag and encourages listeners to embrace their ostomy and not let it hold them back from enjoying the beach and other activities they love.
Connect with LeeAnne on her website https://leeannehayden.com/ or on Social Instagram, Facebook.
Siil Ostomy Swimwear
That Girl with The Bag Ostomy Covers
In this podcast episode, LeeAnne shares a personal story about an embarrassing incident that happened to her while driving home from an MRI appointment in New York City. She had an ostomy bag and was wearing tight leggings that caused stool to come out of her stoma. Suddenly, the bag unsnapped and a piece of solid stool flew out, causing her mother to scream and her son to ask what was going on. The host emphasizes that incidents like this can happen to anyone with an ostomy, and that it's important to react with humor and not feel alone.
Connect with LeeAnne at www.leeannehayden.com or on Instagram @leeannehayden
In this podcast episode, LeeAnne Hayden, host of the Beautiful Bag Podcast, shares her personal story of breast implant illness and her decision to have her implants removed.
She discusses her symptoms and the difficulty of coming to terms with the reality of breast implant illness.
LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of finding a plastic surgeon who is highly recommended in the removal of implants and total capsulectomy.
She underwent the surgery just four days prior to recording the episode and already feels amazing.
LeeAnne encourages listeners to educate themselves about breast implant illness and take action for their own wellbeing.
Connect with LeeAnne on her website https://leeannehayden.com/ or on Social Instagram, Facebook.
In this episode of "The Beautiful Bag" podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden interviews LaTesha Harrison, a Crohn's disease advocate, about her journey with the disease. LaTesha shares her experience with an ostomy since the age of 14 and the lack of education and information about Crohn's disease, especially for people of color. The speakers also discuss their previous work with Hollister and how they finally connected after 18 months. Letisha talks about her traumatic experiences and how she has learned to cope with them. The conversation ends with a message of self-advocacy and self-love, urging listeners to be their own best friend and not settle for anything subpar, especially when it comes to their health.
Connect with LaTesha on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/queeningwithcrohns/
Connect with LeeAnne at https://leeannehayden.com , Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/ or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/leeannehayden07/
In this podcast episode, LeeAnne Hayden, host of The Beautiful Bag podcast, discusses the importance of finding support in the ostomy community.
She shares her experience of attending a charity event for the IBD community, organized by an ostomate named Keyla, and emphasizes the importance of community in understanding and supporting each other through the challenges of living with an ostomy.
LeeAnne also talks about her own journey of finding a community and encourages listeners to seek out a community and not feel alone in their journey. She offers herself as a resource and mentions upcoming events where ostomy patients can gather and support each other.
Connect with LeeAnne:
- On Website https://leeannehayden.com
- On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
- On FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/leeannehayden07/
Other places to connect with other Ostomates
- https://www.ostomy.org
- Hollister Secure Start
In this podcast episode your host, LeeAnne Hayden, a certified gut health specialist, discusses the importance of gut health and how to feed the gut microbiome. She emphasizes the benefits of organic foods and introduces a new product called Vitalite, which contains 72 trace minerals, enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, greens and fruits. LeeAnne reminds listeners that while supplements and products can improve the body, it is essential to prioritize getting the right nutrients through organic foods. She concludes by encouraging listeners to take care of their bodies and reach out to her for community support.
Reachout to LeeAnne on Website, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
Check out Vitalite for yourself Vitalite
The podcast episode features an interview with Jessica Miles, a photographer, registered nurse, and ostomy advocate who shares her journey with a connective tissue disorder and multiple surgeries that led to her having a colostomy. Jessica talks about her experiences with doctors and surgeries, her positive attitude despite her health challenges, and how she copes with her chronic illness through self-portrait photography and birth photography. She emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and setting boundaries, as well as the need for greater awareness and education around ostomies and chronic illnesses. Jessica's story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden and @ www.leeannehayden.com
I just got back from Honduras while on a mission trip. We brought doctors, a dentist, clothing and medications to the villages of Honduras.
In this episode I talk about:
what the experience was like
the people we served
What it was like with limited water
Sharing the stories
and much more
For those of you who want to contribute to Dr. Paz and the windows for the church my Venmo is @LeeAnne-Hayden I am matching all contributions and 100% of the proceeds are going directly to finishing the church windows.
Connect with me over on Instagram @leeannehayden or reach me at https://www.leeannehayden.com
Have a great day!
LeeAnne
In this week's episode I discuss tips and tricks for swimming with an Ostomy.
- Finding confidence to do it
- Personal story on my first time in the pool
- What to wear
- How to make sure everything is on correctly
- How to avoid leaks
- The benefits of swimming
www.steathbelt.com
Follow LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden , on Facebook @leeannehayden07 or on her website leeannehayden.com
In this week's episode, I speak with Brock Masters. Brock was born with Spina Bifida and has overcome so much. We talk about:
-
How perception is reality
-
Fitness
-
Mindset
-
Getting his freedom
-
Volunteering
-
Being part of a community
and so much more!
US Youth Camp - https://youthrally.org
Canadian Youth Camp - https://www.ostomycanada.ca/ostomy-canada-youth-camp/
Find Brock on Instagram @brocknessmonsterr or email him at Brock.Masters@hollister.com
Follow LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden or on her website www.leeannehayden.com
In this week's episode, I speak with Oliver also known as The Kid with a Bag on Instagram. We discuss:
-
Being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis as a teenager
-
Having a permanent Ileostomy in June 2020
-
Playing sports with an Ostomy
-
Positively using social media to raise awareness for chronic and invisible illnesses
In this week's episode, I had the privilege to sit down with Dave, who had sent me a wonderful email regarding his story.
In this episode we discuss:
-
Receiving 2 separate cancer diagnoses
-
Emotions of being a man in an ostomy
-
Advocating for himself
-
Listening to his body
-
The importance of asking questions
-
Writing the questions down and bringing them to the DR.
-
Having great faith and a support system
and so much more! Listen in and let me know your takeaways!
@leeannehayden on Instagram or www.leeannehayden.com
In this week's episode I bring back Dr. Joga Ivatury. We discuss:
-
the differences between an Ileostomy vs a Colostomy
-
Ulcerative Colitis & Crohns
-
When to seek medical help
-
Listening to your body
-
How to connect with stoma nurses
-
Keeping your gut healthy
During my Sunday morning long walk in nature I decided to share some emotions that I have been personally going through. Along with some insight on how to get through the trauma we all have been through.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Reach out to me on Instagram @leeannehayden or to my website leeannehayden.com to connect.
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Lewis Schassler. Lewis was diagnosed with UC in 1985 and chose to have a J-pouch instead of an ostomy. For over 20 years he knew something wasn't right and kept going to the doctors. They continued to tell him that everything looked good until he finally found a doctor that listened. 20+ years later they find out the J-pouch had been leaking all along. Listen in to hear his story!
Also listen in to learn how he took this knew life and created a business. His website is ostotees.com
In this week's episode, I speak with Holistic Health Coach Cody Maher about having multiple surgeries to have a JPouch instead of an ostomy. We talk about the journey from living life as an athlete, to performing in the circus to the struggles she went through and ending up with a J Pouch.
From her journey, Cody has now changed careers to be a holistic health coach to help others who are learning about their bodies and more importantly how to work through the trauma.
I am so glad you are joining me this week on my walk. In this week's episode, I discuss all the new things I have been learning when it comes t our health and longevity. Listen in to learn more.
In this weeks episode I discuss some tips and tricks and some things that I did to handle coming down with the stomach bug after my trip. A lot of you had some really good questions about what what did I do and how I mentally handled it on top of how did I get myself hydrated again and what do you do with all the bags.
Hello my friend! This weeks episode is all about my time in Florence and Venice. Making a new friend who joined me on the trip and tips about international travel!
Ciao!
today I am coming to you from the Amalfi coast and we're going to talk about the experiences I've had over the last 10 days at the yoga retreat in a Puglia, Italy. One of the biggest things I wanted to talk about was my last night in Rome and how I had a leak when I woke up and how I dealt with it while traveling. So, if you've had issues or you're scared that you may leak in a hotel room listening because I'll tell you exactly what I did.
Welcome to the first of a few new little mini series of traveling through Italy with my ostomy. In this episode I talk about all the things I learned about Rome, the sites that I saw and the things that I learned about the Colosseum, the Vatican and more. One of the most important things that I have learned over the last three days is the need to be hydrated and drink more water than we normally do especially on one days when you're doing a lot of walking. Because let me tell you I did not hydrate enough and I'm paying for it a little bit now .
So take a listen to this episode of LeeAnne in Rome! Let me know your thoughts and if you want to see any photos I've been posting on Facebook and also on Instagram so make sure to follow me there. Ciao
Over the next month I will be doing some shorter podcasts about my traveling around Italy for 3+ weeks!
Listen in to discover what I saw, what went on and how I traveled.
In todays episode I talk about how I packed! Listen in and I hope you all enjoy the next few weeks traveling with me!
Intro (00:03)
- This week’s guest is Matilda from Sweden. We met on Instagram
- She has Ulcerative colitis
- She has been in an ileostomy since 2012
You've had your ostomy since 2012. So that's like 10 years now?
Yes. anniversary, and I'm so excited. In September, we're gonna celebrate in some way. I love it. I love it. And it's not that you want to celebrate it. So why do you want to celebrate it? Like what? Why is it such a beautiful thing? Because it's a crazy amount of time. 10 years with an ileostomy because from the beginning, it was said that I would have it for two years. And back then it felt like that was forever. How am I going to do this? And now, like my years has literally flown by. And I mean, my bag, which I'm calling Guna. It's a Swedish name. It's his birthday. So, I of course I had to celebrate.
I believe it's, it's our second it was our second chance at life. So, we should be celebrating.
Yes, yes, of course. I mean, when you look back at that day, like the surgery day, of course, it's a bit traumatic. But for every year from that, it feels like it's an extra year of life. Because that point changed my life from my sickness.
Her Story (02:46)
- I got my diagnosis of ulcerative colitis when I was 15 years old. And back then were well, in my family, we kind of have way more than one having this problem with our tummies and both with Crohn's and Ulcerative. So, yeah, we knew fast that it was something like that.
- The flares come and go with ulcerative, the inflammation, like is active or not active, and then you need more medication and so on.
- That worked pretty fine for nearly two years, until I got really bad and nothing helped. I had high fever, couldn't eat anything. I lived on the hospital. So, in the hospital, they really like focused and tried everything at once. I was without food. I had a food drip
- It was emergency surgery on a Saturday, and they will move a whole colon. And when I woke up from that, I had an ileostomy but also the fever was gone. So, it was literally the sickness was taken out of my body.
That must have felt so amazing. When the sickness was just taken from your body. How did you feel? (04:43)
- At that time, when you get this diagnose, my doctors always said a stoma is the last way out. You don't want to end up there. But there's always that option. And of course, you don't want to do surgery if you if not needed. I just want to get out and be healthy. So, when we did that surgery, and that actually made things better.
- Even if I my body was extremely weak and to recover from an open tummy surgery, it's a process. But at least it felt like now we're going in the right direction. So, it wasn't the end. For me. It was like, the new first abitilty to actually be able to get my life back.
- I'm just going to bag, I'm just in a bag, I just wanted my life back. Colitis and Crohn's it's debilitating. You know, it's when you're lying in bed. And sometimes you just can't get up and you can't focus and can't function. And all you're doing is worrying about what the next day
So now you're in your bag, and you're back in school, you're living you're living your life. You're always on a beach in a bikini!(06:44)
- I've been to a lot of beaches. This like period of Corona has stopped me from the beaches because Sweden is cold. So like, I'm really, really excited to be able to travel again to see like new places new beaches. Yeah, I love I love warmer weather.
- After graduation, I went backpacking, because I wanted to do what I should do with or without the bag. So, I had one year off from high school until at uni and went backpacking. And then there was my like, the first time of really many, many beaches.
I love that now let's talk about that. Because there's so many people so you get your get your get your bag, you're healthy, you're in between, you know, graduation and university and you're like, I'm going to go backpacking, that would probably frighten most people who are in an ostomy. How do I go backpacking? How do you carry all the bags and everything you need? What was that year?
08:12
- Well, I was only away for three months, but that's still a lot of luggage and bags for everyone having a stoma? And yes, there is logistics to plan to be able to do it. Of course, it's not like I'm going tomorrow. But I checked with my stoma nurse, is this like a crazy? Or is it possible to do it?
- I literally had a big backpack. I had very much extra supplies to because in you know, when you are swimming and in warmer climates, it you can be needing changes more often. I had a lot with me, and I always had for two weeks in my hand luggage in case of the big backpack would go away during the flight. I think around two weeks in my friend's backpack. So, I like had the portions out in case of something happens.
- We went around the globe, we started with a shortstop in the US, we had a few days in California, LA, and then we went to Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, and then back. Oh, that's a pretty good route.
- But it's that I really want to live, if you want to go on vacation or a longer vacation like a backpacking trip. It is possible. That is important. It is possible just plan.
I love to travel, if I didn't get my stoma I’d be with my ulcerative colitis, then I would be more worried about traveling because you never know if you're sick tomorrow with ulcerative colitis if there will be a flare from the inflammation. So, the stoma has actually made me more secure to travel.
Where did you find that confidence from where does that come from? (15:00)
- I actually got that question this week on Instagram. And I don't really know if I have a good answer to it. Because I just did it from the beginning. Like, it hasn't been a question for me, even if yes, everyone, like, literally everyone looks at you, or look at looks at the bag. And that's important to know, if you go into the beach for the first time, yes, there will be eyes on you. But for me, it's important to know, or the people know that they are not looking because something is disgusting. They are looking because they haven't seen it before. I mean, I have had my stoma for 10 years, and I haven't met anyone or seen anyone at the beach with a Stoma. So of course, people are looking, because we don't see it, it's under our clothes, nobody sees that we have a stoma, and does that encourage me to actually be one of them, showing it because I love to swim, and I'm not going to stop swimming just because someone looks at it. But if you feel that it is like uncomfortable that everyone is looking at you, then you can just take a towel, or you can take a sweater or something just over you and then you will be totally anonymous. And I will usually compare it to being a celebrity. They can't hid. So, we can choose to be to be famous with when we're showing our bags at the beach. But don't feel for it anymore, then just coverage and nobody will care.
What is the one thing that you think that they need to they need to know? (17:46)
- The important thing for me is if there is something you want to do now, with or without your stoma, try it. Try it with your stoma and try it in your way. And you don't have to go all in at the first time. You don't have to go backpacking, the first thing you do like to try to just sleep away from home
- I have seen everything since I got my stoma, like I'm doing it for the first time I went swimming for the first time, I went traveling for the first time, I went to school for the first time, like everything for the first time with a stoma and try that. And if that wasn't something for you, then don't do it or adjusted to the next time. Don’t’ let the stoma stop you from doing what you want to do in life. Whether it's work or school, travel, anything or like, yeah, you know, you can do everything for the first time.
Find Matilda on Instagram @matildaahdrian
Intro (0.00)
- This week’s guest is Stefanie and we met on Instagram
- Wait until you hear her accent! She was doing some amazing things out there on social media and I knew we needed her on the show.
- She is a 22 year old college student with her ostomy.
- Lives in Scotland
Start of Her Story (1:13)
- Didn’t know she would receive so much attention out on social media when she started posting. She continues to do it to help people and it is a safe place for her to feel comfortable talking about her experiences.
- Never had complications in the past, woke up one day and didn’t feel very well.
- Drs told her it was a cold
- Couldn’t got to school, was stuck in bed, started to deteriorate.
- Drs finally gave her a colonoscopy and found colitis
- She was glad they found something and it wasn’t just in her head
- Was put on medication after medication, but her bowels were too far gone.
- Was told would have to wait a couple years for a different medication or get a bag
- She ended up choosing the bag after a year because she really didn’t want it.
- Wished she would have spoken up sooner about it not being a cold and advocated for herself more.
So now you're in your bag. I mean, you're young, like you're in college, and how was that? Like? What was that like when you first got it? (6:41)
- I thought the bag was going to be the worst possible outcome. At the time I thought It was disgusting, It was horrible. It was going to make me feel unattractive, it was going to be essentially my worst nightmare come into life.
- When I did get my bag, I did not like it. And I struggled a lot mentally and physically trying to deal with the changes. Like trying to look at myself in the mirror and recognize myself was difficult. Every morning, I would wake up, I didn't want to look at my bag, because I just wanted to pretend that it wasn't there.
- I didn't want to talk about it openly to people. Because let's be real who wants to talk about poo
- Thought it was going to be temporary and ended up with a second surgery to make it permanent.
- Second one was the hardest because it was permanent.
- Then she started feeling better and doing things (like getting out of bed) I had spent majority of my two years lying in my bed, homebound I was able to get up out of bed, I was able to keep food down, I was able to go out in the car and go to the shop, I was able to go and visit my grandpa, I was able to go and see my friends. That to me, was like, that's totally eye opener. Like, whoa. Like, it reminded me of what it feels like to be normal. And I was in no pain. And I thought, I forgot what that felt like, I forgot what it felt like to feel, you know, a sense of relief, because every day was challenging.
- slowly but surely as the time went on, I started to build relationship with my body. I started to love myself.
You said you thought it was going to be ugly and smelly, and, awful, and who wants to talk about poo and all that stuff. But here you are. You're out on Instagram, you're answering some amazing questions that people ask you all the time, and you're showing your bag. And guess what? People in ostomies we talk about poo. And guess what that opens the door for other people to talk about poo? Because curious. They want to know. (12:37)
- When I had my Instagram page, my own personal one, if I was in a bikini, I had this body with nothing attached to it. And then suddenly, there's something there that wasn't there before.
- People started to ask What is that? That's how the conversation starts.
- It's such a good way to start conversations to start breaking down misconceptions and tackling taboo subjects.
- When I was going through everything, there wasn't someone like me that I had on the internet to talk to
- All you see are older people not younger ones.
- you can imagine anybody going through their journey of you know, IBD, Crohn's Colitis, cancer when they look on the internet, and that's all they're seen. That's daunting. That is terrifying. I remember how scared that would be I thought I do not want that on my body. No way in hell am I have enough on my body? But had I known back then that there was actually these black bags, these white bags, you can get bag covers, Lacey bags, very sexy bags, I would have been more ok with it.
How school going? (17:42)
- It’s is amazing. The fact that I'm even at University is a massive achievement in itself. That was something I never thought plausible. Back when I was ill.
- I'm studying psychology
- I'm actually going to change my degree. And I'm going to go and do community education.
What are some of the top questions that they that people have asked you? (19:59)
- one of the biggest ones is when did you start exercising after your stoma surgery? How was affected? Because fitness has become a humongous part of my life. After all my surgeries. I take my health seriously.
- When people ask me, you know, how was my body and fluids after surgery? And how did I get back?
- How did you lose your weight after your surgery? After you're on steroids?
- Can I still wear dresses even with a stoma? Do you wear it horizontally? Do you read it vertically?
- Can I have sex after having my surgery? How do you manage having sex? Like, is that still a part of your life? Do you feel like it's different? Has that affected your confidence?
How has your relationship been with the boyfriend? (22:36)
- I was really fortunate enough to have met my boyfriend in high school. So I've been with him. It's going to be eight years this year. So we were young, he's my high school sweetheart. So he was with me pre diagnosis, he was there from the very first symptom all the way through, you know, the ups in the very low lows. And then it was there with me all through my surgeries, everything. He's just been my constant, like he's been constant. So I'm quite fortunate in that sense.
- If I were single, I would tell them on the first date but that’s me
- You don't need to feel obligated to tell people that you have one. I feel like there's a lot of pressure or must tell someone. If you don't feel comfortable, you don't have to you do that in your own time.
What did you do to start your journey back to fitness? (25:56)
- I feel like that's when your recovery starts, the minute you wake up every movement that you do. Following on from that, it's your fitness journey to see the motional even just setting up a bit, getting out of bed standing up and going back to bed. That was like the start of my fitness on it. And I classify that as the start because that's when I started moving my body again.
- I strength train every day. But like that took time, that's two, that's two years on.
- I started from basics I worked on, a lot of core work had to build up of course, and because if you don't if your core, you can't do anything, it's so your core strength is so important. So I went back to basics, strapped it down and built my way up from there.
I'm assuming it's really helped your mental health? (28:24)
- when you go through what we have went through, it is so detrimental to your mental health. It is ridiculous, like you're in such a dark place. And trying to find a way to cope with that can be hard. And luckily enough, you know, we found fitness as my absolute escape.
- I'll wake up every morning and even if I'm having a bad day, I know that when I go to the gym, I'm going to feel some sense of relief. You know that gyms, my outlet when I go to the gym, all these thoughts on the bodies or the or the anxiety that I feel just disappears.
Closing: Now, if there was one last thing you would want to leave our listeners with? What would that what would that be?(33:42)
- That's such a hard question. There's so much I would like to see but essentially just take your time. Don't rush things. Don't feel like you have to be someone that you're not. Except, you know that even though things might not be turning out or be panning out the way you had expected them to. As cliche as it sounds, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and you just need to persevere. Find what works for you. And do you
Find Stefanie on Instagram @lifewithastoma_
Intro (0:00)
- This week’s guest is Chium and we met on Instagram.
- She was out there with her Ostomy working out, doing all that fun stuff I love and I just needed to know her because she is such an inspiration out there!
Start Of Her Story (00:55)
- Had her Ostomy due to an emergency situation in 2018.
- In and out of the hospital dealing with her Crohn’s and flare-ups.
- Not in a great place at all.
- During a routine colonoscopy, they found a perforation in my colon which led to having the Ostomy put in.
- Have had it since then, and now she is able to live a much better quality of life than she had before and what she thought she was capable of.
- A blessing in disguise.
- Ileostomy - not yet permanent. Still remains to be seen.
- At the time of the surgery, it was the idea of being temporary because of the issues that popped up.
- Still need to go through the procedure and have it assessed to see if it can be reversed.
-
Right now it will be there for a bit.
-
Was a complete surprise when coming out of the procedure.
-
Knew it could have been a possibility, but never expected it to become a reality.
-
She was doing very poorly and what was happening with her bowels, was a thought that was in the back of her mind that it could happen.
- Not having time to research and understand what it was and how it could benefit held her back at first.
Experiences Post Surgery (4:34)
- Was a lot of mental processing afterward because it was a shock.
- Her body changing so drastically and something synthetic is now a part of you with this taboo topic and stigma of POOP!
- The mental hurdle you have to get over is that this is not taking away from you and making you less of who you are.
- A huge wall was put up. Attractiveness, sex appeal, her pride, all took a huge hit.
- At first, I did not do much to get through that.
-
Sat in self-pity and feeling bad.
-
Got to a point where it became such an effortless process that somehow it clicked that it is not a big deal!
-
Not sure when or what happened, but somehow clicked.
-
The first part of getting over the hit her pride took.
- Decided she has been dealt this card and she can either choose to sit and wallow or do something.
- Didn’t want her children to constantly see her like that either.
Coming Out And Being Social After (9:12)
- When did you start going on social media and saying WOAH there are a bunch of people out there going through what you did.
- Before this was not active on social media at all.
- Facebook was for family and the extent of social media.
- Felt so isolated and did have that click, I knew that I wasn’t the only one going through this. There are more people out there.
- Wanted someone else in this situation to maybe avoid a little bit of what I went through.
- This is why I started on Instagram to post anything I could.
-
Discovered other individuals.
-
750,000 to 1 million people in the US with Ostomies
- Though it was a smaller community and no one likes to talk about this.
- Remember seeing something and being blown away by the number of people living with this.
- Was a sad moment because so many people living with this and it's so hidden.
- Part of the stigma is just older people who deal with this and this adds to the shame when you are younger.
- Someone else’s journey helped you, now your journey is helping other people!
What Are You Doing On A Daily Basis To Work On Your Health, Your Messaging & Mental Health (15:00)
- There are days when you don’t want to do anything and veg out, and I think that helps my mental health, you do need those days.
- Should have to be on the go and in a constant state of rush.
- If I feel tired, I do a better job of listening to myself and telling myself to take a break.
- Tried to be more self-reflective and take a hard look at myself.
- Started in the hospital when recovering from surgery.
-
Recognized I needed to change the way I was eating and approach food with a more open mindset.
-
Starting with food opened the door to educating myself on other things.
- Exercise came next.
- Realized I was not active which is probably playing a huge role in being over-stressed, inflamed, and other things.
- Found out about the gym, different exercises.
- Understand what I am going to do.
- Worked with a personal trainer to feel more comfortable.
- Didn’t want to do anything to hinder me because of the Ostomy.
-
Trainer pushed me to get out of my corner, but kept it within a reasonable pace and allowed me to feel comfortable.
-
Did end up with Peristomal Hernia in the long run because I went from being a sedentary person to trying to work out 5-6 times a week.
- Recently I had surgery for that hernia.
-
So that concern was big for me in the beginning but I didn't realize how easy it can pop up.
-
When I started to really educate myself on nutrition and exercise and get into it, walking is better and really good for you.
Closing (24:50)
- If there was one thing you would want to say to the listeners, what would that thing be?
- Having an Ostomy is a way to get your life back under control.
-
It may not be what you thought or what you envisioned, but it definitely is a new door opening up to help you, not hinder you.
-
Find her on Instagram
- @Chium816
Intro (0:00)
- Today’s guest is Amy Hart
- In an Ileostomy due to colon cancer
- Mom to 2 little girls.
- She has an amazing story, going through Colon cancer THROUGH covid!
The Beginning Of Amy’s Story And How It All Started (1:28)
- Diagnosed in November of 2019.
- On the heels of my daughter's birthday.
- Approaching her birthday, started having a lot of changes in bowel movements.
- Was always a slow-moving human, but then it started moving fast and furious.
- Started seeking therapy thinking it was something to do after having children.
- Chalked it up to PPD or other things, but doctors didn’t think anything was wrong.
-
Her body was speaking but did not know what it was saying.
-
Intense abdominal pain and cramping.
- Bleeding began in the stool and it was not just a little. Alternating with feeling sick and not being able to go to the bathroom fully.
- Emptying bowels completely.
-
Knew something was not right.
-
Listen to your family history.
- Grandmother died of Colon Cancer
- Mother died of Uterine Cancer
-
No concept of genetic testing until was diagnosed with cancer.
-
Had to fight a doctor to give me a colonoscopy because I was so healthy.
- When they did it, they found cancer immediately and said it was in later stages.
- Has been a difficult process for her, and continues to be a big challenge for her.
- Knowing this information is so powerful because she will be forever monitoring her body.
- Have now had other family members get checked because of what she has gone through to make sure they are safe.
Looking Forward (10:25)
- Wanted to hide away forever after getting her Ostomy
- But THIS wasn’t who she was. How I found her on Instagram!
- A lot of people may not understand it, but they see us through it.
- She has found confidence that she didn’t have before.
- She was not easy on herself, she was mean to her and she did not need to be.
- Didn’t pick this life, but you are doing it and you are owning it!
- You are not alone doing this.
Surgery & Ostomy (12:18)
- Diagnosis November 2019 through colonoscopy.
- Then MRI and CT and another colonoscopy afterward to biopsy the tissue to confirm Stage 3B Colorectal Cancer.
- Genetic testing confirmed Lynch Syndrome
-
Predisposition to multiple cancers. Colon, Uterine, Bladder, and Kidney.
-
Marker from genetic testing came back at 80% Colon Cancer. So when the Surgeon got that they knew they should be as aggressive as possible.
- 2 years out of surgery and numbers are still scary.
- We should all know our genetic testing whether it's genetic testing or something else.
- After Lynch Syndrome Diagnosis went in for Radiation for 6 weeks. December 9th - January 14th.
- I had a 6 week break then had surgery in March.
- Took the entire colon. - Ileostomy to get everything or less of a chance of coming back.
- Surgeon and Tumor board looked at the case and said to remove the entire colon and everything beneath it.
- Total Proctocolectomy with an end Ileostomy and ATR reconstructions
- BIG thing saying if you looked at the inside picture of a body, she would have nothing from the colon down.
- Reason for that extreme version of surgery is because she is young and wanted to be there for her kids.
-
This is the best thing you can do to have one surgery and have it over with and give yourself the best chance.
-
At the end of the day, it came down to being done with it and not having to worry about all of the “What ifs”
Post Surgery (21:00)
- Came out of surgery and the minute woke up in the ICU would not let the nurse help her with that.
-
That was her way of dealing with it
-
Researched how to take care of it and everything so she was ready!
- Woke up and looked at it, puked then got to it.
- Because of the lack of personal stuff with covid and not allowing any visitors, gave her a lot of time to get up close and personal with herself and have not spent a week alone in a long time.
-
Forced her to really say are you going to do this and get up or boohoo through this.
-
We all have a choice, everything in life is a choice and we all have these choices. The difference is getting better and getting louder.
- Do have these moments of why me and poor me, and any of us who have gone through something devastating in our life have these thoughts.
-
But LOVE to see the other side of it too. We are still all walking this path.
-
“This is the life we have been given and I am going to do what I think is best.”
- Can say this is really hard, I don't want others to go through it, but you can have good days and enjoy life. You can live and walk with it.
Closing (33:00)
- Love the most that you shared about the mindset. The things you went through that it can be a dark path, but you chose not to go down that dark path.
- Live your life the best you can. We are all doing it and trying to make sense of what our path is.
- Your story is important so live it! We only get this one and when it's over that is it.
- Look at it and say, it wasn’t perfect, but I showed up anyway and I had some fun.
- Find Amy Hart on Instagram. @barefootprofessional @barefootostomate
- I wish none of us had to go through this, but I am glad it has led us here.
Intro (0:00)
- This episode is about my journey for my new listeners.
- I have shared a lot of other stories with others, but it is rare that I share my story often and my Ostomy journey.
- What led me into having an Ostomy.
- What I have done over the years.
- Cancer and ending up in an Ostomy.
- My mindset and my growth.
How It Began (2:19)
- Back in September of 2015 I was working in direct sales, built a large business, and joined a company with Tyra Banks in her cosmetic line.
- I wanted to be a part of her affiliate program.
- Was selected as the first 200 people to start that company in the direct sales route she was taking.
- I was busy all the time and building my team, but something didn’t feel right.
- I was 44 years old at the time and my periods started hurting and were very painful. Sweating a lot so I just assumed going through menopause.
- Summer of 2015 I earned a trip to go meet Tyra in person, but couldn’t go to meet Tyra not feeling good.
- The doctor did an exam and immediately saw something. Thought it was just a cyst, but because of family history they thought I should just go and see an oncologist.
- So I went to meet Tyra then came home for my doctor's appointments.
After The Trip (5:42)
- Doctors' appointments after I got back showed that I had something called Lynch Syndrome.
-
This leads to Colon Cancer, Uterine Cancer, and those types of cancers.
-
The oncologist said we can do a full hysterectomy and take everything out. Test it and make sure it's not cancerous.
- Had surgery and a full hysterectomy. And everything there was clean with no signs of anything.
- However, they didn’t get the “blob” out. It was still there.
- So far embedded into the pelvis floor that they could not reach it.
- The colorectal surgeon said to leave it there while I heal from surgery. And then they can do some testing on it to see what is there.
- Biopsies, CT scans, and samples were sent off to another hospital to be tested.
-
Looked like a soft tissue sarcoma. And wasn't sure the type of tumor it was.
-
2 months of its just cysts, no big deal.
- 2nd surgery date was January 15th
- Between that kept going back and forth wondering if it was cancer.
- And knowing what the outcome could be, I did not want to be in a bag. I wanted to be able to beat it without having to remove everything.
Mindset Spirituality (10:20)
- Had too much living to do and things I wanted to do in life. Could not let this take me away from that life.
- Meditated for years, and would just meditate to understand why I was going through this.
- I sat with myself a lot to just listen and find my purpose as to why this was happening.
- Ask the tumor why it was here, what was I to learn from it?
- Slow down, stop working so hard, spend more time with family.
- The only way to save my life was to end up in a bag.
- Had a few successful businesses, top 1% of direct sales.
- Came with a lot of work.
-
Day and night
-
Had a lot of stuff, but at the end of the day, stuff doesn’t mean anything. Money is great but I needed to slow down.
- I would meditate on my body being healthier, running health through my veins.
- I prayed a lot. I am a spiritual person and I prayed so much.
- I started reading the Bible and through those months and that year, I read the entire Bible.
- I tried to understand the words and I meditated on those words and passages.
-
Felt closer to God.
-
There is something bigger out there and more than where we are today.
-
There is something more that we cannot see, but it is very close to us.
-
I could feel the energy around me at times.
- I felt closer to God than I have in a while. Had a connection to Him right before surgery. I could feel Him touching my shoulder, and I felt a sense of peace and calmness run through my entire body.
- I knew no matter what happened out of this, it was going to be okay.
After Surgery (17:40)
- Came out after a 9-hour surgery.
- And immediately asked the doctor if we got that blob!
- And I knew at that moment I was in an Ostomy bag.
- I fought this so badly. I THOUGHT it was ugly, I thought it would ruin my life.
- I got up walking and moving because I wanted to get to California to see Tyra again for the 2nd time.
- Out of the hospital Tuesday and on a plane Saturday!
- I needed to do that. I believed there was something bigger out there and for us, I knew I had so much I needed to share.
- My journey wasn't over.
- Came back from California and shared my story, but I am not running as hard.
- Moved to NYC for 3 years, and stopped working so hard in the direct sales.
- Don’t want to build a team right now, but still share products with a company I am in and I share what I love.
- My journey isn’t there anymore. It's here with you guys talking to you about my Ostomy and doing this podcast and bringing awareness to this lifesaving medical device.
- At 51 years old I just signed a contract with an acting and modeling agency. And this brings me to the point of our lives never over. Our journey and our lives are ever evolving.
Closing (22:00)
- There is a reason why we ended up in an ostomy and why we are in one.
- Slow down your life? Or live bigger?
- Someone you will inspire?
- Whatever that is, there is a reason you are here and give us a second chance at life.
- You are in this position for a purpose and you are making a difference whether you know it or not.
- I thought it was important for me to share my cancer journey with you all!
- “Regardless of whatever is going on, we are beautiful and it does not matter. So know that life doesn't have to be different. Yes, there are going to be struggles, yes, there's going to be things that you're going to have to overcome. But it's through that journey that you learn how strong you are and on the other side you are always so good!”
- What you believe is true and you can do anything you put your mind to.
This episode is a continuation of last week. We discuss:
-
The power of Sleep
-
The importance of fitness & performance
-
The power of mindset
-
How to win the war on cancer
-
Conquering inflammation
-
New treatments that are coming for Crohns patients
Intro (0:00)
- This week we are doing something a little different!
- Love to read books and I Love health and wellness, so I love anything that can give us as much information as possible about our bodies and lives!
- We have all gone through something that has led us into an Ostomy and we are looking to live it the best we know-how.
- So how can we help ourselves be better and healthier and help others to do the same?
- The podcast is all about a book I have been reading.
- Life Force By Tony Robbins
- How new breakthroughs in precision medicine can transform the quality of your life and those you love.
- We are going to talk about the first half of the book and I will do another podcast for the 2nd half of the book.
- Written by Tony AND an advisory board.
Diving Into The Book (3:34)
- Starts by talking about our GREATEST GIFT.
-
And our greatest gift is our bodies!
-
We have to be our own advocates for our bodies if we think something is not right without our bodies. We have to sit back and listen to our bodies.
- Doctors only know as much as they know.
- Nothing matters more than our personal health.
- And we have been given these amazing bodies for free!
-
That is why so many people don't take care of it. They take their bodies for granted because it's free.
-
We need to be the CEO of our own health and our own bodies.
- Experts should be our coaches, not our commanders.
-
They can only do the best they can with the knowledge they know.
-
Tony also gets into stem cells and turns back time on our biological clocks.
- He doesn’t only want us to live a long life, he wants us to live a long HEALTHY life.
- Go to Lifeforce.com you can set up a consultation for 30 minutes with one of their consultants.
-
You can go through your medical conditions and they will go through a list of what they are finding.
-
Also talks about turning back time.
-
Aging will be curable soon!
-
Things we can do now. (Mayo Clinic study)
- People with Vitamin D deficiencies were far more likely to test positive for the virus that causes covid. And to exercise acute respiratory failure or death after they were infected.
-
Lower Vitamin D levels are hurting our immune systems.
-
Age is the root cause of all diseases. We are not the same as we were in our 20’s and 30’s.
-
It's our cells breaking down and our life span getting smaller.
-
Entire chapters on the CAR T Cell.
- A lot of us want to avoid Cancer. And when you hear that word, it's the scariest word in the world.
- Talks about the power of the T Cells and they are the immune systems infantry.
- Have done studies on patients and given them healthy T Cells to attack the cancer cells and break them down. (Kidneys struggle with that much coming through them to get rid of it.)
- But great success administering this and fighting cancer.
-
Lots of other studies and stories in this book that you may be interested in.
-
An entire chapter on Gene Therapy
- An entire chapter on the WNT Pathway, which is actually the fountain of youth.
What Can We Do Today For Ourselves? (19:44)
- Talks about our ultimate vitality pharmacy.
- Peptides are little proteins that have a big impact.
- So many different types of peptides.
- Have the tremendous potential and have to be properly administered.
- Highest quality.
- Peptides play a significant role in fighting necessary medications for the public.
- Some can help you reduce your appetite, promote fat loss, and rebalance your metabolism.
- Another one can strengthen our immune system and combat our age-related decline.
- One to boost sexual arousal.
- One of them heals the gut, ligaments, tendons, and skin.
- A peptide to increase muscle mass, strengthen your bones, revitalize your skin and restore your youthful metabolism.
- 10 different peptides in this book.
-
Check with your doctors or go to his website. Lifeforce.com
-
Talks about another drug called Metopform. Low-risk wonder drug. Helps with and acts like intermittent fasting.
-
Helps the liver, gut, muscle cells and lowers blood sugar.
-
Hormone optimization therapy.
- NAD Plush supplementation and recharging our cellular batteries.
- A helper molecule. A coenzyme is found in every cell in our body.
- Helps our genes.
-
An essential component of all things.
-
Other safe and natural health pan enhancers.
- Ones they recommend and some I personally take.
- Vitamin D3 (liquid form)
- Omega 3 Fish Oils
- Magnesium
- Vitamin K 1 and K 2
- Choline supplements
- Creatine
- 23 Vitals - immune optimization product
Mind-Body Connection (26:56)
- A lot of times we know to be in peak performance, we need to settle down our minds.
- We need to give our bodies some time to heal.
- What we have gone through can really play with your mind.
- So what can you do for things that can help you from a mind perspective?
- Meditation
- Exercise
- Going for walks
- Sitting with things
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
Lifestyle And Diet Chapter 12 (27:51)
- Our bodies need movement.
- We need to heal ourselves and take care of ourselves so we need to move.
- When it comes to longevity and diet, they talk about how they found people who adopted a healthy lifestyle, had an 82% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. And a 65% lower risk of dying from cancer.
-
This should say it all! HEALTHY LIFESTYLE!
-
What does a healthy lifestyle mean?
- It means eating well and feeling great.
-
It means eating the right things for our bodies.
-
There is a test you can do called the Geno Palate DNA test.
- Tests you and tells you do you burn carbs better than fats, what should your protein goals be? What should your carb goals be on a daily basis?
- What are the best foods for you?
- Gets very specific.
- Tells you the top vegetables for you based on your DNA
-
Find out what vegetables, fruits, meats your body really thrives for and loves.
-
Diets high in protein without accompanied vegetables and fruits are at higher risk for certain cancers and heart disease.
- Replace bad carbs with good carbs.
- Get the right amounts of fruits and vegetables.
- Certain veggies, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and brussels sprouts; these veggies contain Sulforaphane. A compound that reduces inflammation and can even reduce the size of tumors.
- Take your diet into your own hands.
-
Get a diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, healthy lean proteins.
-
Ages 50 to 65, who ate high levels of protein were more than four times as likely to die of cancer, than people who ate low levels of protein. The group that ate high levels of protein also had a 74% increase in their risk of dying from any cause. What really mattered in the study that I'm reading you was whether the protein they ate came from plants, or from animals.
-
The study found that in people aged 50 to 65, plant-based proteins were healthy, whereas high levels of animal proteins promoted mortality.
-
Fasting and the power of fasting.
- Fasting can be a 12 hour fast while we sleep.
-
Eat dinner and eat breakfast 12-14 hours later.
-
Drink your water. Drink half of your body weight in water a day.
- Microbiome in our diet.
-
Important to find the right balance of our microbiome. Especially those of you with Chrons and Colitis.
-
The POWER of Hot and Cold.
- The benefits of the cold shower.
- Profound impact on wellbeing.
- Stimulate immune system.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Increase cardiovascular strength.
- Reduce inflammation.
- All in 20 minutes a few times a week.
- Use a Sauna. Steam or Infrared.
- Cold baths, cold showers, cold plunges and cryotherapy.
- Try heat and cold and see what works best for your body.
Closing (36:53)
- The book is full of different ideas and new technologies that he is talking about that really can help us understand what is going on in the medical industry and help us live longer, healthier lives.
- So here is the checklist!
- Hydrate more
- Eat foods closer to their natural source.
- Structured eating window.
-
Get some exercise into your days. A walk a day can change your life.
-
Let’s learn as much as we can about our own specific beautiful selves and get this life going!
- We will go over the rest of the book in the next episode!
-
Tons of stuff! Sleep, women's health, power of mindset, diabetes, obesity, cancer and other technologies are coming.
-
We’ve been given a second chance at life, so let's live it the best way we possibly can!
LINKS:
Life Force Website: Tony Robbins
https://www.lifeforce.com/
Geno Palate Testing:
https://www.genopalate.com/?utm_term=&utm_campaign=Dynamic+Search&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=4742462595&hsa_cam=1581630671&hsa_grp=60003244272&hsa_ad=317175219588&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=dsa-437652907851&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmeKQBhDvARIsAHJ7mF74L-OplUUfpsrVeoW_Go1y4X8tevezah--Wb2UN13pO9mK5sa2aVYaAnr1EALw_wcB
Sulforaphane:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sulforaphane
Intro (0:00)
- This week we are talking with Cristina Falbo
- We met in our Facebook Group Body Positivity With An Ostomy
- I wanted to bring her on because of her story and how it is similar to mine.
A Little Bit Of Your Ostomy Story/Cancer (0:57)
- Have Ostomy because of Cancer
-
Had cancer in 1995. Cervical Cancer.
- Right after had her son.
- I could not have any more children after that
- Stage 3
- Had a colostomy during some of those treatment periods.
- Happened 27 years ago.
- Had to have the colostomy then, things were not as good then as they are now.
-
DIfficulties with adhesives, obstacles with not really having any good Stoma Nurses available.
-
Kind of on your own, learn as you go.
-
2015 and I was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
-
Cervical cancer. Recurrence of original cervical cancer.
- Surprised because they don’t usually see a 20-year gap with that.
- Told terminal by 3 different Chicago hospitals.
- No surgeon would take on my case.
- Too complicated and would have ended my life.
-
Ended up getting 1 more opinion.
-
My husband pushed me to get another opinion.
- Went through all the testing and they said they would be able to help me.
- Top 100 surgeons in the country who were going to help me.
Emotional Rollercoaster to Keep Going And Didn’t Give Up (4:58)
- Was stressful.
- Glad I had my husband by my side to help support me through that.
- Had 5 children, 2 of them in college, I was now going to be out of a job so this was a big concern.
- Concerned that if I passed, how would it affect her family.
- Just wanted them to be okay.
-
Husband had talked about doing all kinds of possible treatments before we found the surgeon.
- Looking for any possible opportunity to save my life.
- Researching, sharing information, and finding options.
- Just training to maintain sanity day-to-day.
Leading Up To Second Surgery/Treatment (7:20)
- Attended a friend's wedding right before the surgery.
- Was a nice distraction to be with them and spend this weekend with them.
- Soaked up and enjoyed every moment of that little vacation.
-
In preparation, it is probably the best thing you can do.
- Live in the moment
- Something I try to do every single day.
- Day of the surgery, I woke up early, fixed myself all up with hair and makeup.
Surgery (10:13)
-
Did you know being in an Ostomy was the option?
- Yes. I Was told that I would have both a permanent Urostomy and Colostomy.
- After surgery though they said it would be possible to reverse the Colostomy.
- They did reverse that but then had to go back into that.
- That was a decision I had to make because of my lifestyle.
-
Lifestyle. What was it like? What made you say go permanent with it?
-
Gotten to the point where I could not go out or did not want to.
- Was afraid to go out.
- Could not live in the moment.
- Lived in fear of having an accident.
- It got to the point where I didn’t feel like I was truly living.
- Had blockages, was uncomfortable, was in pain, and finally said enough is enough.
-
When I woke up from getting the Ostomy I was so happy.
-
“The happiest person to wake up with a Colostomy she ever met!!”
- Was happy because I felt like I was finally free.
- A lot of people look at it as a restriction of freedom, but I was FINALLY free!
- Immediately woke up without pain.
- Finally I knew that I was going to be able to do things.
What are some things you have been able to do now since having the permanent ostomy? (13:49)
- Was my dream to retire to Florida. Planned to do this one day.
- While in the hospital when I had a blockage and decided to get the colostomy, my husband came into the room and taped pictures of houses in Florida all around the room.
-
Said let’s go now, so it has been pure heaven.
- Bought a house with a pool, it was a MUST!
- Have so much fun, love the home and the pool.
- Entertain at home, friends come to them a lot.
- Go on vacations, go on cruises.
-
Start planning time with all of our family.
-
Think about what is important, and always come back to your family.
Swimming With Bags (17:53)
- Knew my appliances before I had a pool.
-
Knew how they reacted with water and warm water.
- Pool is saltwater so it was a bit of a learning curve.
- Have a hot tub and can go into that.
- Use a longer wearing bag when swimming.
- Make sure to let it cure/have a time to let adhesives seel. (24 hours before go swimming)
- Can’t think of too many other restrictions.
-
Have swimwear designed for Ostomies.
-
Have some that are not designed for it either.
- Have a 2 piece that is the most comfortable, makes it easy to make adjustments and bags fit right inside of the suit.
- Take care of the Ostomy when I need to.
- This has not impacted my enjoyment at all.
- I Grew up being a summertime pool person, and if I eliminated this from my life, I wouldn't be true to myself.
- “I am going to enjoy every part of everything I possibly can!!” - Cristina
- “But the most important thing that you've said, these last 2030 minutes, is that you are being true to yourself. You are honoring who you are, you are living your life, you don't really think about it, you just take care of things when they need to be taken care of, and your family. And everything you do is just surrounded by that. And I have to praise you for that!” - LeeAnne
What are some of the things you do to help you live in the moment and stay in the moment? (22:38)
-
In the process of being evaluated for a Kidney Transplant.
- One of the things that came out of the cancer. My Kidneys were damaged.
- There are a lot of things that could eat me alive, wIth worry and anguish and concern.
-
I have been on my deathbed 2 or 3 times now.
-
I have fought death before a few times and won and that is part of it!
-
Bigger part is, when you really explore all of the “what ifs”.. There are so many possibilities to one situation that your ability to control any of those things that are going to happen, are just not within our own personal ability.
-
Knowing that made me let go of those things.
- When I have those days that things pile on top of me, I have to give myself a break and a treat!
-
I am trying to constantly keep myself grounded.
-
Use the phrase “Live in the moment.”
- There is not a beginning and an end to things. We are all in a process.
- “Have I done enough in life? Am I doing everything I should do in my Life? Am I on the right path? And the truth is, I think that we are all right where we were meant to be on our path. And we are doing it right now. We're not looking at the future of what we're gonna do. You can't look in the past and undo anything that's already there. You're doing it right now. We're doing life right now. Every moment.”
Closing Thoughts (28:51)
-
People with Ostomies or new Ostomies seem to find me all the time.
- So many people are so afraid and it is a scary process. Just brace for it. It is okay.
- You are doing what you are supposed to do.
- You were led to this point in your life and this is where you were meant to be.
- You can’t plan for this, prepare for this. But just know it is going to be alright.
-
Hold your head up high. You have been through A LOT of stuff!
-
If you have come this far, look at all you have gone through.
- You are winning because you are still here.
-
It really is an amazing life, and my life is not done, I am not over it.
-
Has adjusted and learned the tricks on how to get through different situations.
- You make these adjustments and they become second nature.
- Hold your head high, you have DONE SO MUCH
Reach Out To Cristina (33:27)
- Find her in the Body Positivity Group.
On Facebook under Cristina Herleinn Falbo.
Let's talk about what happens while you are on vacation. In this episode, I talk about going to the beach in a bikini and how even after 6 years I still have moments of insecurity! I also talk about what happened on a run I had while away. Oh boy things do happen.
I met Joy on Instagram over a year ago. This was one of the first episodes on the podcast and I wanted to bring it back for you.
We talked about what life was like back when she started having pain and IBD wasn't really a thing.
How she managed to move to Alaska and what happened with her surgery.
Post Ostomy life of Getting married, divorced, becoming a Crossfit coach, an aerial fitness instructor, Yoga teacher, rock climbing.
We talk about body image, sex, love, relationships, and more!
Ask the Dr! This episode is chock FULL of information about how to deal with hydration and blockages directly from Dr. Joga Ivatury, Chief of Colorectal Surgery at Dell Medical School at University Of Texas Austin, and my surgeon.
We all have so many questions about life in our ostomies so I thought it would be great to create some ASK THE DR episodes.
So get ready to listen in and learn how the body handles hydration issues when you are in an ileostomy and colostomy.
We also discuss what to do in the case of blockages and how to prevent them.
Making a statement and becoming Mrs. World America 2021! In this episode, I speak with the current Mrs. World America, Robin Brown. We chat about: * How her ostomy story began * What brought her into wanting to do pageants * What it was like to do pageants in an ostomy * Being an advocate * What Robin Did To Help Her Move Forward In Her Life From Feeling Stuck After Her Ostomy * Some Things she has Done Being Mrs. World America, 2021
Instagram @ostomyqueen
AJ is a survivor and a fighter. He was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 10. He had been very athletic as a child and started losing a lot of weight.
He rebelled after parental issues when he got older. Which led to drugs and even some time in prison.
After abusing his body he ended up with a transverse colon which led to a permanent ostomy.
AJ has turned his life around and is a proud dad of 2.
He believes that:
"The most important thing in my opinion, is the mental game. Life begins in your mind and your thoughts become outside of you. If life gets you into a negative mindset and you allow yourself to stay there, it will only bread and perpetuate more negativity and energy that is not good for you"
You can find AJ on Facebook AJ Barbosa or on Instagram @imthtcrohnie
It’s my first solo episode of the new year so I wanted to talk about nutrition and exercise!
At the beginning of the year, we always set these goals we want to achieve for the year, so today I want to chat a little about some tips that I have for you to help you stick to your goals and feel good!
I am not a stickler for the scale, I just want to feel good and be able to move my body!
So in today's podcast, I am going to talk to you about what my diet looks like, what I am eating to keep me fueled.
What I do for a workout routine and easy ways to move your body without even leaving your house!
And what supplements I take to help support my body, my health, and my immune system to help me to stay healthy!
We need to be healthy. We need to move our bodies as much as possible. It is so good for our mind frame and gives us so many feel-good endorphins to keep us going through the goals we set for ourselves!
Let me know what resonates with you from today’s episode. What do you do to keep yourself motivated and feeling good all year long?
Ashlyn is 1 year out from having her Ostomy and from her perspective, it has really been a year of acceptance for her.
After going in and out of remission with her UC over the years, it finally got to a point where it was truly a life or death situation. The last thing that had to be done to save her life as the medications and treatments stopped working was to get part of her colon removed and have an Ileostomy put in.
The year post-op was a battle with multiple hospitalizations following her surgery, losing all of her hair, and then working on how she can find herself again and adjust to this new normal and accept herself and her situation.
We can both agree that the mental aspect of recovery is one of the hardest when it comes to this. But just really ensuring that you have this community around you that supports you and is there for you is so needed to thrive in this new life.
“Believe in yourself and finding a way to love yourself is the key to sort of everything else. For me, once I was able to accept myself and my new body and my new hair, and all these things I was going through. I felt like the rest kind of just came naturally. And I think other people can sense that as well.”
You can find Ashlyn on Instagram @ashlynlaskey as well as her youtube channel, The Roaring Redhead.
Heather's journey started as a young child with stomach issues and doctors always telling me nothing was wrong. Fast forward years down the road and Heather was in constant pain with Ulcer Colitis, then faced a Crohn’s diagnosis.
Receiving these diagnoses lead her down a long path of healing holistically and doing things to get her life back. She learned about the importance of a clean, organic and holistic lifestyle and diet and started making changes to her everyday life.
After a cancer diagnosis, Heather was forced to have surgery to have an Ileostomy, but continuously stayed positive throughout it all! This is not a roadblock for her. And throughout her whole journey, she always felt that people should not feel sorry for her. But through the whole journey, she thought, “1) What am I supposed to learn from this… And 2) this did not happen to me, it happened for me. It made me a better person all the way around. It has given me the knowledge I didn’t know before, and a passion to help others. To me, I find this a blessing!”
Heather’s journey has given her the freedom to do things again and she is living her life the way she wants, helping people go through what she has and teaching them the knowledge she gained during her journey.
Definitely take a little time today to check out her podcast, it's a good one!!
You can find Heather here at @heathermoffatthealing on IG and Facebook
Genine is another beautiful soul that I had the opportunity to have here on The Beautiful Bag podcast this past week!
She was in an Ileostomy for over a year, which was supposed to be temporary, but through more struggles than the doctors anticipated, got surgery this past September to get her permanent Colostomy!
Genine is now THRIVING and enjoying her life, pain-free with her children and grandchildren. Her mindset is in an incredible place now that she can actually live her life the way she wanted to. No more pain, no more dark days and not wanting to be here anymore.
This life-saving device has given her the opportunity to be happy again and have the will to live and be here to talk with us about her struggles and her journey.
I am so grateful that she was able to be so honest and upfront about what she went through and share with others that they are not alone if they feel like this. There is light at the end of that dark tunnel. You just have to be willing to try something different to feel good again!
“ Don't be afraid. Don't live in fear. Don't let fear control you! If you are ill and there is something out there that can help you, do not live in fear of trying it! Go for it and give it a try! Living in pain and suffering is not good mentally and it's just not good for you. Don't live in pain if you have this option. Don't be afraid of this little bandaid that can save your life and don’t let that fear of the unknown stop you!”
As we close out 2021 it's a great time to reflect and define what you would like 2022 to look like.
In this episode, I talk about:
- setting goal
- Being SMART with your goals
- Working on your personal goals first
- Closing out 2021
Rita is brand new with her Ostomy! She struggled for years with Crohn’s and Cancer and for years her doctors told her that getting a Colostomy would be the best chance for her to lead a normal life. But succumbed by fear of the stigma an Ostomy can carry, she continued on with her life hoping that things would get better.
For the last 2 years, she has been through a lot with cancer treatments and just feeling horrible, so when things did not get better she knew that she had to move forward with surgery to get her Colostomy.
8 weeks post-surgery and I am so excited to have been able to talk with Rita. She has given us and our listeners a new perspective on the before and after of getting this life-changing surgery.
She went from denial and ignoring the doctors, to getting surgery and entering a really dark place, to finding a community that supports her and coming to the realization that SHE HAS BEEN given this new life! She has this new opportunity to feel better and truly live her life to the fullest!
I am so happy she is here with us today. I am so happy she can talk with us about her journey and how she has overcome physical, mental, and emotional struggles just in these few short months. She is truly remarkable and an inspiration to anyone in our shoes.
“I know it's easy to say. “Stay positive.” But I want people to know that this is not the end of life. This is the beginning of life. I need people to understand that! Because I was that way. I thought it was the end of my life. But it is just the beginning.”
“This is the first page of a brand new book… Chapter 1. And I am not sure how the book will end, but I do know that in it, it will say that I never gave up!
@rita_follett
How can you make your mess your message?
Update on Kam's mom
Finishing this year strong!
I cried a little this morning in a good way. Finished 75 hard yesterday and feel so accomplished. I woke up one Sunday morning after watching @mrsdukesfitspo for a few weeks and said that’s it I’m doing this and starting today. It was my grandson's birthday party day, I knew there’d be cake and celebratory food but made that commitment to myself.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I had been feeling out of sorts for a while, like not having control over myself & some parts of my life. I thought this is something I could control and I did! Not only did I do the daily tasks but what I learned is I can still accomplish things, I don’t have the patience anymore with excuses, and that I really enjoy structure lol.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The 18 pounds I lost was just the icing on the cake. My goal after cancer for the last 6 years was to get back to my normal weight of 128. Not that weight is important but my body had been so inflamed for years and my hormones were a mess. It didn’t help that I ate dinners out most nights and well had my wine or tequila 4 nights a week. I kept giving up on myself. Well not anymore! Now it’s time for the hard work to maintain and stay consistent with the lessons I learned. 💪🏼. I’m pretty proud of myself right now 😊
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Here are the tasks completed
75 outdoor workouts (walks with listening to podcasts)
75 workouts ( mostly weights, some yoga & Peloton rides)
750+ pages read (I read way more)
75 gallons on PLAIN water
75 progress pictures
75 days of following my macros by clean eating with no cheats or alcohol
JD is a true fighter and he is alive today to talk about it.
After a motorcycle accident that left him clinging to life with breaking more than half the bones in his body, being in an induced coma for over a month, and being told he would never walk again, he is defining the odds and really has an incredible story to tell.
The accident also left him with an ostomy. But he has decided to not dwell on this and he reminds himself every day that this all happened for a reason. It happened so that he can talk about it, he can share his journey, his struggles, and encourage others to shift their perspective and mindset when life changes so drastically like this. Because without that change in your thinking, you will give up and not see your true potential.
“Anyone going through anything physical or mental in your daily life or job, keep persistent, keep resilient, keep pushing because everything starts from the mental aspect. Once you let yourself break down completely mentally, then that is when everything is gone. So keep consistent and keep trying your best every day.”
You have to listen to this story of perseverance after being on the brink of death. We are so honored that JD is here to talk to us about this today.
JD on Instagram @thesbkid1
LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden
#ostomy #ostomyawareness #thebeautifulbagpodcast #beautifulbagpodcast #secondchanceatlife
In this solo episode I bring you back to an interview that I did on my friend Jodi Harrison-Bauer's Fearlessly Authentic show back in Oct of 2020
We cover:
-
living in NYC through Covid
-
Why we moved to NYC
-
Relationships
-
Finding the Cancer
-
Not having a community
-
getting on Stage
-
Fear and how to break through it
Follow LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden
Find Jodi on Instagram @jodiharrisonbauer
Michelyn Caldwell founded the company, NB Products (Na'Scent.com) in 1998. This company came to fruition after a close family friend, Linda, needed an ostomy when she was in her 20’s and learning about her struggles inspired Michelyn's journey and dedication to help Linda and others!
For those that are unfamiliar with the product, Na`Scent is an Ostomy Odor Eliminator for use in all ostomy pouching systems.
Over the last 23 years, she has learned that this product has made a huge difference in a lot of people's lives and this has been their main inspiration and motivation to keep things going over the years.
"This work has given me appreciation in life. And I think the one thing I have noticed especially in the Ostomy community is that a lot of these people have been given another life. To hear their stories and the courage they have shown and the resilience in moving forward has just been incredible."
To learn more about Michelyn and the work she is doing to help people in an Ostomy take a listen because this product has really changed so many people's lives giving them the confidence to live their lives the way they want!
It's Thanksgiving week! I wanted to take a moment in this podcast to thank you for being a part of the community, also so tips and tricks around eating for Thanksgiving to avoid blockages and a little fun around the NYC parade. I hope you all have a fantastic Thanksgiving!
Instagram handle @leeannehayden
"The Ostomy has saved your life and has given you life, but it is NOT YOUR LIFE. You are separate from it. Yes, it has helped define who you are like; it has helped me and allowed me to feel confident in myself. But it is not what makes me, me. And I think that it is important to understand that for everyone else out there. There are other things out there that make you who you are. It's just a part of you." - Jessica Grossman.
Jessica has had an Ostomy since she was 13 years old after battling Crohn's for over four years as a child. And she has done so much since then!
She is an actor & model; she owns a digital marketing company, is the founder of @uncoverostomy, and has been happily married for five years!
Growing up, she forced herself to be comfortable speaking about her Ostomy; it helped her open up and grow into this remarkable woman and bring awareness to her Ostomy.
And through the years, she has come to realize that the Ostomy doesn't define who she is; it has just helped her to be able to be who she is today.
"It's not why I am who I am. It's not something that holds me down because I have it. I can do all of these things because it kept me alive and because it saved my life! BUT I am all these other things because I am alive because of my Ostomy!"
Jessica has such an inspiring story of finding who you are because of this life-saving device and that you can still do what you are meant to do on this earth because of it!
Take a listen and be sure to give Jess a follow! @jessgrossman
In this episode I discuss:
-
Went to NYC last week for my colonoscopy
-
What it was like to move to NYC 3 years ago
-
Starting a new job with my ostomy and the fears I had
-
Realizing I am an entrepreneur, not an employee
After being diagnosed with Ulcer Colitis in 2013 while in his 3rd year at UC Berkeley, Collin's illness took such a drastic spiral downwards in 8 months from the time of diagnosis to having surgery to get an Ostomy.
This forced him to put a halt to his track and field carrier that he had been working towards since he was a child. Then to have this rise to the sport pulled out from under him was very very hard to go through both mentally and physically.
This began a journey of getting to the other side of the illness. How to recover both physically and psychologically? And his own journey has inspired him to help others who are going through what he went through.
Collin wants to share his experiences so that someone else can learn from them in a way he did not have after he had his diagnosis and surgery.
Collin is such an inspiration and his story will encourage so many people to keep on trying and never stop trying to do new things even with an Ostomy!
Take a listen and you will see for yourself!
"The goal for recovery or a psychological recovery will never be perfect, we will always have our days. But in order to get it more manageable, it's all about shifting your perspective. Find your limits and push them slightly to make that happen. Put some thought into what scares you and go and try to become less afraid of doing it! This will be one of the biggest tools you can use for your recovery.
Be patient with yourself and push the boundaries and you'll find that eventually, you will be able to see the Ostomy for what it is. Which is a second chance and a good reason to have more appreciation for the little things in life!"
- @colllinjarvis
#ostomypodcast #beautifulbagpodcast #beautifulbag #ostomy #ostomyawareness
This story is remarkable…
When I say we are given a second chance at life with our Ostomy…. Today's podcast guest Natalia can literally say she was at death's doorstep and she is NOW living with a second chance at life!
Natalia was prepared to die after her battle with Chrons. She had come to terms with it and she almost was not here to tell us her story.
After multiple surgeries, Natalia is doing everything she can do before her Ostomy! She is a true inspiration for anyone going through what she has. And she has not made it her work to help people, and bring awareness to having an Ostomy and her story from dying to truly living!
“This is not bad. You can live with this and have a great life. You just have to let go of the fear and let life take you where you are supposed to go.”
Natalia’s journey has left me speechless, but I feel SOO grateful that she is with us today to tell her story.
@nataliaversace
Ok guys and girls, I got a little personal with this one. Let's just say my first experience getting ready for a colonoscopy wasn't that fun. So I want to make sure you are all prepared if you ever have to have one!
Your dreams and goals that you have before an Ostomy are still attainable and within reach even after an Ostomy.
This is something today's guest Keyla taught me through getting to know her and in this podcast.
She wanted to model before, so after her surgery, she knew that she was going to set a goal and make those dreams come true!
In today's podcast, we dive into much good stuff!
How to make sure you are taking care of YOU first and foremost, how to track water and food and all of that good stuff, ways that you can help your mindset through acts of self-love to help get you through the tough times, and how to NEVER STOP dreaming and working towards those goals you set for yourself because the Ostomy does not stop you!
Keyla is so darn inspiring and has done so much in such a short amount of time and I am so excited to see where this all takes her in her life!
"This is me, this is my body, this is the healthiest I have been and none of these people know my journey and what I have been through and what I go through every day. I am comfortable and happy and I am healthy and I am not in a hospital and I am living my life. And if it's with a bag so be it!!
Take a listen to today's podcast and be sure to follow Keyla here on IG!
@keyla.ic @kelya_ire
Good morning and welcome to an additional solo episode with me this week!
I am so excited to share why I chose to do 75 Hard and what it feels like to be halfway through it! I woke up one Sunday morning 5+ weeks ago and decided at that moment that it was time for me to challenge myself. I was getting very complacent with life and knew I need the challenge to break my comfort zone. I can say it truly has!
Listen in while I explain what it has done for me so far.
You can find me on Instagram @leeannehayden or my website leeannehayden.com
Have a great week and maybe you'll do 75 Hard with me!
Charlotte has only had her ostomy for a few years, but in that short time, she has truly inspired people.
She is empowering and vulnerable at the same time and it really is such an amazing quality to have and is so rare to find.
On social media Charlotte talks about the good and the bad of everyday life with an Ostomy, just keeping it real! And this is what is helping so many people and what is so inspiring about her. She shares her journey no matter the day and that rawness is what gets people through the hard times!
Today we dive into life before her Ostomy, her diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), which so much is still to learn about it, and how she is now helping others and what she plans to do in the future to reach more people with an Ostomy.
Check out my new friend on today’s podcast from across the pond, because she is truly amazing! And be sure to follow her on social media @charlotteamylouise
Talking with Kimberly gave me goosebumps… Her inspiration is so profound and it is such a beautiful thing how she is reclaiming her life after beating cancer and receiving her Ostomy.
"This device doesn’t mean it is the end. It's actually a beautiful beginning. My ostomy has given me 5 extra birthdays with my family." - Kimberly Coleman @kimberlyhcoleman on IG
We talk all about her life after cancer and how she was not going to stop living. It actually gave her the push to try new things, LIKE POLE DANCING AND BURLESQUE!!!
Get it, girl!!!
We also chat about ways we can help others and inspire others by just letting them know we are here, we are living and they can too!
There is always someone out there who you can talk to. Who can help you, just know that you are not alone!
“Don’t let having an Ostomy stop you from living your life and THRIVING!” -Ryan Van Voorhis
In today’s podcast, I got to sit down with @rvanvoorhis who is a Chron’s survivor and has had his Ostomy for just over 20 years!
He is also the owner of @nudedudefood and he is doing what he loves and what inspires him! (you have to check him out, the food on his page…. I get hungry every time he posts something new!)
Ryan didn’t want his Ostomy to define him. He wanted to continue to live his life, find his passions and help others as much as he can!
Whether it's cooking & feeding people good, healthy, and local food out in Chicago, or helping others in our Ostomy community, Ryan is doing what lights his soul on fire!
Take a listen to today’s podcast! We dive into food and eating with an Ostomy, fitness, and some tips Ryan has for staying hydrated all day!
“The biggest thing is to have a positive and supportive community of family, friends, and other people in an ostomy. This is the number 1 thing to help you succeed in life and thrive with an Ostomy. Always know that you are not alone in this!”
To celebrate World Ostomy Day on October 2nd, I have a very special guest panel of some pretty amazing ladies on today's podcast!
Jearlean Taylor episode #27, Stephanie Bension episode #16, & Krista Nickerson episode #6 are on The Beautiful Bag and I am sooo excited for this chat!
Today we talk about, what World Ostomy Day means to each of us and as a whole, confidence in front of people, the top 3 tips for taking care of your skin, dressing for success, and our go-to outfits.
Plus we are going to talk about what questions we are asked the most and how we answer them!
Follow them on social media! They are so inspiring and really helping others!
Hollister Virtual Panel - link.hollister.com/panel
Working out & yoga, women empowerment, health & nutrition, getting your mind right, and Intuitive eating! All things we talk about in today’s podcast with the amazing Nina Hayes!
If you have ever wondered or worried about the quiet yoga studio and your ostomy acting up, or learning more about proper nutrition, or even traveling with an ostomy, you will want to take a listen. We cover so much and I had such a wonderful time learning more from her in this episode!
Check her out on Instagram on both of her accounts, @ninahayesmission, and @blossomostomy give her a follow! She even has a free guide to intuitive eating that you can grab right on her IG account as well!
World Ostomy Hollister Panel discussion link.hollister.com/panel
Stoma Sticker - link.hollister.com/stomasticker
Kya’s story started as a teenager and was definitely a wild ride for a few years!
She went from having an Ostomy to a j-pouch, then while she was pregnant with her first child, had surgery for an Ostomy.
She is such an inspiration and has so much courage speaking on this and helping others so that they are not afraid to ask questions and talk about their ostomy.
"In hindsight, everything definitely looks better. At the moment we tend to sit there and forget that we are ok. You are sitting there and you are going to be okay.
Have confidence with it all and ask questions. There is never a stupid question. There is never an awkward question. Message me with something weird if you have it! I have heard it all!
Just embrace it. It is you and you are not alone at all. There are so many people that have Ostomy's. We just don't like to talk about it. I want to be the person who talks about now because I was the person who didn't for years.
Embrace your situation and look around for ways you can help other people." - Kya
Find Kya on Instagram @itskyajeub
Angie is a special guest because she is actually our first guest that was pregnant when she had her early stages of Ulcer Colitis!
And shortly after giving birth to her son, she had to have a life-saving surgery which resulted in having an Ostomy and she has had one for 39 years!
Angie also plays a huge part in our Ostomy community, just being there to support people and uplift them. She truly is an amazing person and I am so grateful that I know her and we got to speak on this podcast.
"You can find true love. You can find someone that will accept you and love you for who you are, not is what is wrong with your physical body. You can have a normal life and have a successful carrier."
Definitely take some time today and listen to her story. She is so inspiring and has to most amazing advice for anyone going through this!
Hollister Secure Start Services eNewsletter - link.hollister.com/beautifulnews
I sat down with Meghan this week to answer some questions many of you may have or have been wondering.
Can I really work out!? The answer my friends is YESS!!
The number one reason I think why you need to work out with or without an Ostomy is so that YOU CAN FEEL GOOD!!!
Moving your body feels so good, and you will feel so much better mentally and physically!
And I think Elle Woods said it best... "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don't shoot their husbands. They just don't."
Don't be afraid to move your body, whether it is a little every day or in the gym with a trainer.
There are sooo many reasons why you should work out.
From super healthy, to waking up with intense pain from a kidney stone, to finding cancer within such a short period of time at the beginning of 2020.
Tom’s life changed dramatically with 1 visit to the ER.
He had stage 3 cancer that required him to get a Urostomy and a Colostomy, completely changing his life. But with the support of his wife and community, he was able to come out on the other side with a new outlook.
Tom and his wife came out of this experience just wanting to help people who are going through this and have gone through this in any way that they can! That is their goal to help as many people as possible!
Did you know that someone with an Ostomy has to stay more hydrated than someone without one?
This is because our intestines pull out water from our food to keep us hydrated. But with an Ostomy. the food skips this step.
This means, our body is not pulling the same amount of water from the food.
This is why it is so important for someone with an Ostomy to get in more fluid than the average person.
The average person should be drinking half their body weight in ounces of liquid per day. Someone with an Ostomy should have even more than this.
But guess what, drinking water all day isn't the only way to get more water into your system. You can get more hydration from fruits and vegetables!
Check out today's podcast to learn what fruits and veggies help you get more water into your body and be sure to grab a pen and paper so you can take notes!!
Do you have questions about living in an Ostomy?
I did a Facebook live the other day and tons of questions came up that I hadn’t even thought about!
So this podcast is full of questions and answers that I got and wanted to dive deeper into!
And when I say deep, friends we go in!
I always get asked, aren't you afraid of a hernia, aren't you afraid of something happening in your ostomy? When it comes to working out with an Ostomy.
And to be honest.. I have never been worried about!! I just don't think about it!
Before I ran, weight trained did HIIT workouts and after I had my Ostomy, I have slowly been getting back into all of it!
Heck, I even took part in an HYROX competition with the girls almost 2 years ago!
You can workout after, but talk to your doctor first, start slow, pay attention to how you are feeling, how your body is feeling and how you are moving!
And if you are worried, do your research and find a really great trainer who can work with you when you start off to make sure you are moving right and all of that!
But when in doubt, just get up and get moving, go for a brisk walk or a nice 5 miler.
Whatever it is, just keep active because you will truly feel so much better!
I was always a beach bum and rocked a bikini. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ But in the last 5 years after having my Ostomy, there were definitely times that I didn't feel so confident wearing a bikini to the beach or pool. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ It has taking me a few years to not compare myself to others or worry about what others may think or questions they may ask. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So this vacation I just said you know what, I am going to do what I want! And I put on that bikini! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I was so excited because I found some adorable bag covers made by a past podcast guest April @thatgirlwiththebag that matched my bathing suits and I just enjoyed myself. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Now being in an ostomy, I am more confident and comfortable in a bathing suit than I was before. And I often forget I have Ivan! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Life is about enjoyment, so when you go out and go to the beach or pool, enjoy yourself! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Put on the swimsuit. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Go to the beach. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Pack your car, wine, and snacks and go to the beach or pool. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ DON'T BE AFRAID of the bag or swimsuit or what other people are going to think and go out and enjoy yourselves!
At birth, Nikki’s parents were basically told by doctors that because of her family history, they should be watchful of her health. She immediately as a baby could not tolerate dairy and always had stomach issues.
And as she got older, it was apparent that she would inherit the same UC issues her family had.
For years Nikki struggled with painful UC and always said that she would never ever have a bag. She would rather die than have one.
But it wasn’t until after surgery where for the first time she could eat WITHOUT any pain that she knew that this Ostomy saved her life. She got her life back and was able to finally live a pain-free life without restrictions! Nikki knew that she wouldn't be here today to talk about her struggles and her journey if she had not gotten that surgery.
Now she is a confident woman who is not worried at all about what others think about her bag because she is NOW living her best life and loving every minute of it.
This woman is miraculous!
She has had both of her bags since she was 3 years old after a rare form of childhood cancer required her to get a Colostomy as well as a Urostomy.
After years of being apprehensive to share her story, she finally realized that she had to talk to others about her journey and raise awareness of what it was to have an Ostomy.
Her mom always told her to embrace everything that she had gone through and just share her story.
Once she was able to talk more about her Double Ostomy, the world opened up to endless possibilities. She realized that life doesn't have to stop. That you don't have to give up anything.
She started speaking more about her journey in church and to others and it opened up the door to modeling, something she never thought she had a passion for, but now it has become a dream of hers. She wants others to know that they can do whatever they want!
" I am not defined by my circumstances. You are not defined by your circumstances! You can live your life to the fullest in spite of…. In spite of it all!"
Take a listen to today's podcast! You are going to love Jearlean! I just know it!
Kevin was a healthy 28-year-old who loved to work out and was working on his black belt in jujitsu. Then all of a sudden he became really ill. He chalked it up as his IBS but when the symptoms got worse and worse he knew it was something else.
He got to the point where he could not eat, he was sick all day long, and he could feel his body slowly shutting down.
Kevin was prepared to die until the doctors told him that his large intestine was so inflamed and perforated they had to take it all out. And this was the only way that he would survive.
For Kevin, it took longer to recover mentally, but he pushed through and realized that he has been given a second chance at life. And that he can still do all that he had before. He can still get back to all of the things that he enjoyed doing.
Never let getting an Ostomy end your life. Take your life back in your hands and do what you want to do. Live the life you want to live!
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Erica Olson.
We talk about:
-
Being a Crohns warrior at 14
-
Not keeping weight on
-
Getting her life back
-
Going from only laying on the couch to doing/being Buring man, fire spinning, Burlesque, sky diving, and more.
Also the BEST bag leak story I have heard yet!
Follow me on Instagram @leeannehayden or tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with guest and new friend Darlene, we discuss:
-
Finding out you have Cancer
-
Becoming a new ostomate and going through chemo/radiation during Covid
-
having a great attitude
-
being open to work-family, family, and friends about what is going on
-
Talking to your employer
-
"I am not going to be crippled by this"
You can connect with Darlene on Facebook
Connect with me on Instagram @leeannehayden or tiktok @leeannehayden1
-
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Bruce Levinson, we discuss:
-
finding out you have cancer
-
going from eating poorly to studying everything you can about health and healthy eating
-
complications that change your life and your marriage
-
Marriage
-
Your mind, body and soul
You can find Bruce on FaceBook
Connect with me on Instagram @leeannehayden or Tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with my new friend Megan, we discuss:
-
being born prematurely
-
having 2 ostomy surgeries
-
eating healthy and finding your foods after surgery
-
having a supportive spouse
-
finding confidence you never knew you had after surgery
You can find Megan on Instagram @l_ostomy_life_and_loving_it
Connect with me on Instagram @leeannehayden or on TIktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Scott Meadows. Scott was born with Spina bifida and has been in a bag since the age of 5.
We talk about:
-
what life was like as a child
-
being part of a team
-
deciding not to hide
-
creating a community
-
relationships & more....
You can find Scott and the Facebook Group "Body Positivity for Ostomy" on Facebook
Follow me on Instagram @leeannehayden and on TIktok @leeannehayden1
In this solo episode, I share what my life has been like these last 5+ years with my husband John. I get a little personal in here and discuss intimacy, our sex life, some stories of how I had to change my way of thinking. I hope you enjoy this episode and learn from it. Life really doesn't have to change.
Follow me over on Instagram @leeannehayden or on Tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with guest April Wilson also known as @thatgirlwithabag on Instagram. April is a mom, wife, Army veteran who has a business creating gorgeous ostomy covers. We discuss...
-
How a bacterial infection created colitis
-
Talking her Drs into an ostomy
-
Jpouch
-
Creating a business out of her message
Follow me on Instagram @leeannehayden and tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Mackenzie about her journey in a bag 2x. We talk about:
-
being in a bag as a young girl
-
having it reversed
-
finding the strength to tell your parents I am not ok
-
getting a bag for the second time
Connect with me for daily motivation on Instagram @leeannehayden or TikTok @leeannehayden1 or my website www.leeannehayden.com
You can find Mackenzie on Instagram
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Stephanie Bension about her life in an ostomy. Stephanie is a public speaker, ostomy advocate and is creating her happiness from scratch. We talk about:
-
Dating with an ostomy
-
How to communicate with your support system
-
what you can eat and maybe not eat
-
Tips and tricks to make life easier
-
How an ostomy has changed her perspective
You can find Stephanie on Instagram @missbension
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Lauren Beach. We talk about
-
Crohns at 12
-
Ostomy at 19
-
Dating
-
Working out
You can find Lauren on Instagram @thecolonchronicles
In this week's episode, I discuss the difference between an Ileostomy vs a colostomy.
-
The functions of the intestines
-
what is the difference
-
why one vs the other
You can find me on Instagram @leeannehayden or on Tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I discuss some personal not so great experiences.
-
Irrigating
-
Wearing a cover
-
accidents
-
how to handle them
You can always find me on Instagram @leeannehayden or tiktok @leeannehayden1
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Molly. We discuss:
-
Living on laxatives through middle school & high school
-
When your organs & muscles are not correct
-
Thinking you're going to have a resection but are getting an ileostomy instead
-
Dealing with the shock
-
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
-
When your collagen is like jello instead of being strong
-
Having an ostomy has given her a better quality of life
-
Finding and creating the community
You can find Molly on Instagram @mollyollyostomy
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Kim Fleck. We discuss:
-
Her perspective on her journey which is still going on
-
When they can't figure out what's wrong
-
When you are the 1-2% of the population the nothing works and everything that can go wrong does
-
When the infusions make you lose your hair all over
-
Having brain lesions & living with Crohn's & losing all your hair
-
Finding Western medicine
-
Getting quiet when you live in chaos
-
Caring for yourself by listening to your body
You can find her on Instagram @brandfearless
In this week's episode, I speak with guests Danielle and Joe from Double Baggin It. We discuss:
-
Finding your community
-
Support groups & where to find them
-
Doing something with their voices to bring awareness
-
What you go through having Crohns (Joe) / Colitis (Danielle)
-
When there's no bathroom around
-
What their lives are like with their ostomies
-
Creating Double Baggin It for others
You can find Danielle & Joe on Instagram @doublebagginit
In this week's episode, I speak with guest Yvonne Holley about
-
Living with Crohns since 11 years old
-
Preparing for an ostomy
-
What it was like to be pregnant with her bag
-
The struggles she has gone through
-
How grateful she is
You can find Yvonne on Instagram @crohns.mummy
In this episode I speak with Brianna - The Laughing Stoma on Instagram about:
-
living in different countries in an ostomy
-
getting your Ileostomy at 24
-
When Drs can't figure out what is wrong
-
Diagnosed with Ehlers- Danlos Syndrome
-
How to deal with leakages
-
What life has been like
In this episode with guest Sam Abarca we discuss:
-
When Colitis comes on during your pregnancy
-
Being on every kind of medication
-
Needing to know where all the toilets are
-
Being a nurse and taking care of ostomy patients
-
Becoming an ostomy patient
-
Finding others online who are in ostomies to relate too
-
Being able to enjoy life now - running marathons, swimming
You can find Sam on Instagram @aussie_ostomate
In this weeks Episode I speak with Krista Nickerson also known as my gut instinct on Instagram. We talk about:
-
being diagnosed with Crohns at 9 years old
-
living with the disease her entire life
-
advocating for herself
-
how to come out of a dark place
-
having ostomy surgery right before her wedding
-
what life has been like these last 3 years.
You can find Krista on Instagram @my.gut.instinct
In this episode we discuss:
-
Knowing something is wrong at the age of 12 but being too embarrassed to say anything
-
Trying to live a life as a teenager while being on medications to help with your issues
-
Having surgery after 20 years
-
Defining moments
-
Overcoming the obstacles
You can find Michelle on Instagram @michellevalentino
In this weeks episode I speak with guest Carly Allen. We talk about:
-
finding out you have stage 3 vulva cancer at 38
-
when you don't look like you are sick
-
surviving cancer and finding out it came back
-
what lead to the ostomy
-
Living with and Ostomy for live
Connect with Carly on Instagram @ostomate_and_the_city
In this weeks episode I speak with guest Joy Wilde. She shares her story about starting to live in an Ostomy from her mid twenties.
-Diagnosed with Chronic Ulcerative Colitis at 21
-
Living in pain
-
Different diets
-
BCRR (internal pouch)
-
Having an external Ileostomy
Connect with Joy on Instagram @the.art.of.ostomy.maintenance
- Dating with an ostomy
In this weeks episode my special guest Amanda Ambroise talks about having severe belly pain and what she found out.
-
3 surgeries in 5 months
-
living with a temporary Ileostomy
-
finding out you had twisted colon
-
when you are about an hour away from dying
-
living life in such a positive way
Find Amanda on Instagram @amandaambroise_fitmomof3
Welcome to the very first episode of The Beautiful Bag. Listen in this week as I discuss why this podcast was created. I talk about what it was like to find out I had cancer, about the surgeries and what life was life the first few days after finding out I was in an ostomy for life.