“Plenty of people here willing to give advice and answer questions if you need it. Don’t be shy about jumping into any discussion thread at any time…” (L.V, member of MeetAnOstoMate.org) #ostomy #colostomy #ileostomy #wocn #stoma

Question from MeetAnOstoMate forum: I'm new to the ostomy life, 5 weeks post-ileostomy. My stoma seems bigger, especially on the right side, with slight bleeding underneath. Is this normal? Any advice or similar experiences? #ostomy #stoma

Question from MeetAnOstoMate forum: Over a year post-colorectal surgery, I still get cramps/pain around my lower stomach and stoma area when lifting or bending. Is this normal? Does it go away? Let’s share insights—learning from each other is invaluable. Thank you. #ostomy #stoma

“I have been a member of MeetAnOstoMate for five years and have made some wonderful friends. I have friends all across the country and other countries as well. This site has made this possible.” RT (C.N, member of MeetAnOstoMate.org) #wocn stoma ostomy

Hello , You are not alone with your ostomy. Join MeetAnOstoMate.org, the best online community for ostomy support, networking and Forum. Chat with 39,000 + members, 280+ nurses, and more. It is free and fun. ❤️

Over a year since my colorectal surgery, I still have cramps and pain across my lower stomach and near my stoma (not next to it), often when lifting or bending. Is this normal? Does it go away? Have others experienced this? Let’s share. #ostomy

I’m having my stoma relocated due to a painful hernia. Has anyone had this surgery? Will the old stoma site be an open wound? How long were you in the hospital and fully recovered? My doctor says the incision will be minimal. #ostomy

“Talking with others in the same situation is very therapeutic and helps us realize we are not alone. There are some really compassionate people on this site that can help.“ (P.W. a member of MeetAnOstoMate.org) #stoma #colostomy #ileostomy #ostomyawareness #wocn

Question from MeetAnOstoMate forum: Does anyone know if it's safe to add a couple drops of essential oil to the water bottle I use to rinse my pouch? #ostomy #stoma

Alex D. USA), member of MeetAnOstoMate.org: “We laugh, we cry, we vent. We help each other, We get along. Just a super great ostomy community!” #owtomy #stoma #wocn

I have a permanent colostomy and struggle with body image and intimacy post-surgery. My husband is supportive, but I feel self-conscious, especially during chemo. Has anyone found ways to adjust emotionally and sexually? #ostomy #stoma

Over the last two weeks, my stomach swells painfully, triples in size, and I struggle to pass stool, needing to push and squeeze for relief. Cutting back on Imodium hasn’t helped. Has anyone experienced this? Advice is much appreciated. #ostomy #stoma

meetanostomate.org It’s been an incredible journey and there is a lot more to come. #ostomy #stoma #wocn #colostomy #ileostomy #urostomy #colorectalsurgery