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Real advice and practical resources from people who understand your journey

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Getting Started

What I Wish Someone Told Me at 28 About Getting an Ostomy

When I think back to myself at 28, lying in that hospital bed, I wish someone had told me what to expect in the months ahead.

Oct 15, 2025 3 min read
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Young woman in hospital gown with walker recovering from ostomy surgery
Man sitting on bed beside opened window in warm bedroom lighting
Getting Started

When Your Ostomy Bag Leaks: What's Actually Going On

Feb 10, 2026 4 min read

After using an entire box of leaky bags, I learned what really causes leaks, how to protect my skin, and the importance of self-compassion.

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Young woman hiking with backpack on outdoor trail, preparing for physical activity
Getting Started

Ostomy Belts 101: When to Use Them, Why They Matter, and How They Work

Jan 27, 2026 4 min read

All the things I wish I'd known about ostomy support belts when I first started out.

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Young person shopping for groceries with fresh produce
Getting Started

How My Ostomy Changed My Grocery Shopping Habits

Jan 5, 2026 5 min read

Navigating the grocery store after ostomy surgery takes some adjustment. Here's what I learned through trial and error.

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Young traveller navigating airport with confidence, backpack ready for adventure
Lifestyle

What I've Learned From Going Through Airport Security Dozens of Times

Dec 18, 2025 3 min read

Those first few trips through airport security with an ostomy taught me how to travel with confidence. Here's what I wish I'd known from the start.

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Professional working at desk reviewing documents with confidence
Career · Part 4 of 4

Your Rights at Work: What Your Boss Can't Ask You

Dec 10, 2025 4 min read

Know your rights, protect your privacy, and understand what employers can and cannot do regarding your ostomy.

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Young friends celebrating and dancing at outdoor party event
Lifestyle

Party Confidence: Dancing, Drinking, and Late Nights

Dec 3, 2025 4 min read

Navigate social events with confidence. Pre-party prep, dancing tips, alcohol considerations, and emergency planning for worry-free fun.

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Two women sitting beside table and talking in professional interview setting
Career · Part 3 of 4

Job Interviews: To Disclose or Not to Disclose?

Nov 28, 2025 4 min read

Making confident disclosure decisions during job interviews and knowing your legal rights.

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Young roommates relaxing together in modern apartment living room
Lifestyle

Living with Roommates: Bathroom Etiquette & Supply Storage

Nov 25, 2025 3 min read

Navigate shared living spaces with confidence. Disclosure decisions, bathroom logistics, supply storage, and handling awkward moments gracefully.

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Young woman using smartphone for dating apps and social connections
Relationships

Dating Apps and Disclosure: Timing That Actually Works

Nov 20, 2025 3 min read

Master the art of online dating disclosure. When to share, how to share, and conversation scripts that build authentic connections.

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Diverse multicultural team of professionals collaborating in modern office workspace, showing workplace inclusion and support
Career · Part 2 of 4

Going Back to Your Job: Practical Strategies

Nov 14, 2025 5 min read

What actually helped me get through those first weeks back at work.

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Young couple sharing intimate moment outdoors, laughing together in warm natural light
Relationships

Dating and Relationships: Real Talk for Young Ostomates

Nov 12, 2025 2 min read

How to navigate dating, intimacy, and relationships with confidence and authenticity. The honest conversation about disclosure, timing, and finding the right person.

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Young Black woman in meditation pose practicing mindfulness and emotional wellness
Mental Health

Nobody Warned Me About the Mental Health Part of Getting an Ostomy

Nov 10, 2025 4 min read

I prepared for surgery and physical recovery. Nobody told me I'd be dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, and body image stuff. If you're struggling with the mental health side, this is for you.

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Professional woman working confidently at desk with computer, representing readiness to return to work
Career · Part 1 of 4

Deciding When You're Ready to Return to Work

Nov 5, 2025 4 min read

Understanding the physical and emotional signs that you're ready to go back to work after ostomy surgery.

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Gaylyn Henderson proudly showing her ostomy bag as part of the Aerie Real campaign for ostomy awareness
Community

World Ostomy Day 2025: Why This Day Matters to Our Community

Oct 3, 2025 3 min read

World Ostomy Day brings invisible disabilities into the light. Here's why this global day of awareness means everything to young ostomates like us.

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