I did it! I managed to (almost) independently empty my bag. The member of staff was amazing and supportive. #Stoma #IBD

Day 9 in hospital, and it only took me 45 minutes to physically get out of bed independently. I'm getting quicker!

First time out of University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS FT in 11 days and straight into the snow. I'm so pleased to be home in time to see this. The team at the hospital has been amazing. Their support, patience, and guidance have made recovery so much easier. #stoma #IBD

It's crazy to think that at this time last week, the docs were 'offering' to put a feeding tube up my nose if I didn't 'eat' more than 1/4 teaspoon of yoghurt each day. Yesterday, I had a piece of toast! #progress #BabySteps #Stoma

'It's a marathon, not a sprint' is something I keep repeating to myself on an hourly basis. I knew recovery was going to be tough, but not being able to sit up for more than 20 minutes is difficult. Especially when, in my head, I can do so much more! #stoma #panproctocolectomy

Celebrating small successes today. I've managed to get my hair brushed and straightened, and have 4 earrings put in before I felt dizzy and faint. I managed to go for a supported walk to the end of our road and back. I have 6 earrings left to put in.

My stoma is a month old today. It has been an interesting journey so far. However, I wouldn't have got this far without the support of my family and friends. The support from the team on Ward 308 at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS FT was amazing and the nurses at Lister House Surgery have been fantastic too.

Every year for the last 9 years, I have been involved in our year 3 Nativity performance. I love watching the children grow throughout the experience. This year, I'm missing it all and hoping the children are having a great time. I can't wait to see the pictures when I return.

It’s day 14 of EduAdvent and it’s another book giveaway! Fiona Sheriff 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧🌍 has donated her 100 ideas book and Rachel Johnson PiXL has donated her ‘Time to Think’ book! Just Like and Repost to Enter!

I'd like to wish the community Pear Tree Community Junior School a very Merry Christmas. I hope you all enjoy the break and manage to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

Happy Lohri to everyone celebrating today.

I heard this quote on a post by Mesha today, and it really struck a chord. I look back at life before illness and quite often regret not doing more, not living my life as I wanted.

It's half term, which means just one thing...it's Harry Potter marathon time with the little madam!

I became ill when Avni was 2 months old. Whenever she wanted to do something, I've said 'one day' without being able to say when that will be. However, now, we're making a list of things we will do when I have recovered. I can't wait to begin to live life with my little girl!

My designated spot in the garden and my view for today. We've lived here for over 10 years, and this is the first time I have been able to rest properly in the garden. No need to worry about rushing to the loo. No need to worry about food or drink. #IBD #Ileostomy

Week 1 of my phased return to work is done. I am absolutely exhausted, but so, SO pleased to be back. I have loved catching up with the children and seeing how happy they were to see me. Meeting my work friends has helped get my mind engaged and has challenged me in so many ways.

Supplies ready to take into school for my supplies box. Just need a spare outfit to put in there, too.

One of the things I've always wanted to do is see Gurdas Maan live, and we finally managed to do it on Friday night. This was our first proper night out, as a couple, in over 18 years! I'm slowly starting to get my life back and start living rather than just existing. #ileostomy

I've managed to complete my first full week of teaching since October 2024. It was my first week teaching in year 4 since 2015. Exhausted doesn't even begin to cover how I am feeling but I know this year will be a great year!

Today is #worldostomyday. Since having surgery, my life has changed. I am beginning to live (and enjoy) my life rather than just exist. Having a stoma has its own challenges, but Ramona (my stoma) really has saved me.