Concert Survival Guide: Dancing, Crowds, and Long Lines

The first concert I went to after my ostomy was pure anxiety. Would I be able to stand for three hours? What if I needed to empty my bag in the middle of a song? What if someone bumped into me? Six concerts later, I can tell you that live music and ostomies are totally compatible – you just need the right game plan.

Pre-Concert Preparation

The secret to a great concert experience starts at home. Here's your pre-show checklist:

The Emergency Kit Essentials

You probably won't need it, but having supplies gives you peace of mind. Keep it small and venue-appropriate:

• 1-2 spare bags (pre-cut if you use cut-to-fit)
• Travel pack of wipes
• Small tube of paste/powder (if you use it)
• One wafer (just in case)
• Plastic disposal bags
• Hand sanitizer

Choosing Your Spot: Strategy Matters

Not all concert positions are created equal when you have an ostomy. Here's the real talk on where to stand:

Navigating Crowds Like a Pro

Concert crowds can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, they're manageable:

The Bathroom Break Strategy

This is the big one everyone worries about. Here's how to handle it:

• Scout early: Find bathrooms when you arrive, not when you need them
• Go before it's urgent: Don't wait until you absolutely have to
• Use opening acts: Perfect time for a quick empty without missing the main event
• Consider accessible restrooms: Often cleaner and less crowded
• Tag-team with friends: Have someone hold your spot if possible

Dancing and Movement

One of the best parts of concerts is moving to the music! Having an ostomy doesn't mean you have to stand still:

• Start small: Gentle swaying and arm movements to see how your bag feels
• Listen to your body: Some days you'll feel like dancing, others just bobbing along is perfect
• Avoid impact movements: Jumping and aggressive movements might feel uncomfortable
• Use a support belt: If you want to dance more freely, consider extra support

I've danced to everything from indie folk to electronic music with my ostomy. The key is finding what feels good for you on that particular day.

Dealing with Long Lines

Whether it's getting in, getting drinks, or waiting for the bathroom, concerts involve a lot of waiting. Make it easier on yourself:

• Arrive early: Beat the rush and get settled before crowds peak
• Stay hydrated smartly: Drink water, but pace yourself so you're not desperate for bathrooms
• Wear comfortable shoes: Your feet (and your whole body) will thank you
• Pack snacks: Low-output foods to keep energy up without increasing bag activity

Different Venue Types: What to Expect

Every venue has its quirks. Here's what I've learned:

🏟️ Large Arenas/Stadiums

• Pros: Lots of bathrooms, multiple exits, usually well-organized
• Cons: Massive crowds, longer walks to facilities
• Strategy: Arrive early, stick to your section's facilities

🎭 Mid-Size Venues (Theaters, Concert Halls)

• Pros: More manageable crowds, better sightlines, nicer facilities
• Cons: Fewer bathrooms, can get hot and crowded
• Strategy: Perfect for building confidence, great middle ground

🎸 Small Clubs

• Pros: Intimate setting, easy to move around
• Cons: Limited/sketchy bathrooms, very crowded, hot
• Strategy: Go early for positioning, prepare for closer quarters

When Things Don't Go According to Plan

Sometimes stuff happens. Here's how to handle common issues:

• Bag fills faster than expected: Don't panic. Find a bathroom at the next song break
• Wafer edge lifts: Smoothing with clean hands often works temporarily
• Feel overwhelmed: Step outside for air, use your emergency kit, or call it a night if needed
• Spilled drink on clothes: Another reason to wear dark colors and pack a small towel

I've dealt with all of these situations, and none of them ruined the concert. Having a plan makes everything more manageable.

Building Your Concert Confidence

Start with what feels manageable and work your way up:

• First concert: Smaller venue, seated if possible, artist you really love
• Next level: Standing room at mid-size venues
• Advanced: Multi-hour shows, outdoor festivals, general admission floors

There's no rush to jump into mosh pits or all-day festivals right away. Every concert you successfully navigate builds confidence for the next one.

The Bottom Line

Live music is one of life's great pleasures, and having an ostomy doesn't have to change that. Yes, it requires a bit more planning than it used to, but the payoff – losing yourself in music you love – is absolutely worth it.

Your favorite artists are still going to give you chills. You're still going to sing along badly. You're still going to leave with ringing ears and a huge smile.

The music is calling. Time to answer.