I was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2020, I was 48 years old. Needless to say this was a hard pill to swallow. I started radiation and chemo treatments. I did radiation everyday for 6 weeks, with two rounds of the baby bottle chemo, one in the first week and one in the final week, along with a few bags of chemo throughout the 6 weeks. Unfortunately this wasn't enough to stop the tumor, it still wanted to grow. The next step was the removal of my colon. I was in the hospital for 6 weeks. I was so sick and weak I really didn't think i was going to make it, I went though this by myself due to COVID. I couldn't be with my kids or family. I couldn't give up, I had to be there for my kids they still needed me. After my release I had home care nurse's come to my house everyday to clean and change my dressings, this went on for 8 months. My wound was very large, they took my colon and all my surrounding lymph nodes.
I went through a few different kinds of colostomy bags until I found the one that worked for me. Due to sensitive skin I ended up with the clear bag from Coloplast. I didn't like to see the contents of the bag due to the clear window. I tried stoma covers and found them to make me leak. I couldn't find anything that was working for me so I decided to make something. I came up with stickers. This way I can have any colour I feel like or match with my outfits. I am hoping others can find comfort in my stickers or just have some fun with them. Although I created this for the clear bags they can also be used on any styles. They are completely waterproof. I have been in the water for hours and they don't even peel on the edges. I have a option for extra sticky for the non clear bags, and I would recommend this for water use on those types.
I am excited to launch and would love to hear from others and hear your stories. I will be blogging on a regular basis so please let me know your questions or concerns.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
1 comment
Thank you for sharing your inspiring and courageous story. Your journey through the challenges of colon cancer and the subsequent surgeries is undoubtedly a testament to your strength and resilience. It’s remarkable that you’ve not only faced these difficulties head-on but have also channeled your experience into creating a solution that may bring comfort and joy to others facing similar circumstances.
The idea of creating stickers for colostomy bags is both creative and thoughtful. It’s clear that your motivation to bring color and personalization to a medical device comes from a place of understanding and empathy. Finding ways to make the experience more bearable, both practically and emotionally, is crucial, and your initiative seems to address that need.
Launching a platform for sharing your story, experiences, and the products you’ve created can be a valuable resource for others going through similar situations. Your openness and willingness to connect with others who might have questions or concerns can foster a supportive community.
Your journey is undoubtedly an inspiration, and I wish you all the best in your endeavors to help others facing similar challenges.
Thank you for sharing your inspiring and courageous story. Your journey through the challenges of colon cancer and the subsequent surgeries is undoubtedly a testament to your strength and resilience. It’s remarkable that you’ve not only faced these difficulties head-on but have also channeled your experience into creating a solution that may bring comfort and joy to others facing similar circumstances.
The idea of creating stickers for colostomy bags is both creative and thoughtful. It’s clear that your motivation to bring color and personalization to a medical device comes from a place of understanding and empathy. Finding ways to make the experience more bearable, both practically and emotionally, is crucial, and your initiative seems to address that need.
Launching a platform for sharing your story, experiences, and the products you’ve created can be a valuable resource for others going through similar situations. Your openness and willingness to connect with others who might have questions or concerns can foster a supportive community.
Your journey is undoubtedly an inspiration, and I wish you all the best in your endeavors to help others facing similar challenges.