Essential Supplies for Away-from-Home
Being prepared means having the right supplies in the right places. Here's your complete supply strategy for college dorms, workplaces, and on-the-go situations.
Daily Carry Bag
- 2 complete ostomy systems
- Adhesive remover
- Barrier wipes
- Small scissors
- Disposal bags
- Wet wipes (unscented)
- Small water bottle
- Emergency contact card
Dorm/Office Stash
- 1-week supply of pouches
- Barrier rings/paste
- Measuring guide
- Mirror (small, portable)
- Flashlight or phone light
- Air freshener (discrete)
- Extra underwear
- Comfort items (heating pad)
Car Emergency Kit
- Complete change kit
- Clean clothes (full set)
- Large water jug
- Towels (disposable & cloth)
- Plastic bags for disposal
- Gloves
- Enzyme spray for odors
- Emergency cash
Travel/Overnight Kit
- 3-day supply minimum
- All adhesives/accessories
- Prescription medications
- Medical documentation
- Ostomy nurse contact info
- Insurance cards
- Pharmacy locations list
- Backup contact person
Disclosure Scripts for Different Situations
Knowing what to say (and when to say it) can reduce anxiety and help you feel more confident in various situations.
Casual Friend/Roommate Disclosure
"Hey, I wanted to let you know that I have a medical condition that requires me to use the bathroom a bit differently than most people. I have an ostomy, which is basically a surgically created opening for waste to exit my body. It's not contagious or anything to worry about, but you might notice I take a few extra minutes in the bathroom sometimes or have medical supplies around. I'm totally comfortable talking about it if you have questions, but no pressure!"
Academic Accommodation Request
"I'm reaching out to request academic accommodations due to a medical condition. I have an ostomy, which sometimes requires urgent bathroom access and occasional medical appointments. I would benefit from preferential seating near exits, extended time for exams if needed, and flexibility for medical absences. I have documentation from my healthcare provider and am registered with the disability services office."
Workplace Accommodation Request
"I'd like to discuss a reasonable workplace accommodation for a medical condition I manage. I have an ostomy, which occasionally requires immediate restroom access and periodic medical appointments. I'm requesting flexible break times and seating near restroom facilities when possible. This condition is well-managed and doesn't affect my ability to perform my job duties. I'm happy to provide medical documentation if needed."
Dating/Relationship Disclosure
"I've been thinking about how to share something personal with you. I have an ostomy, which means I had surgery that changed how my body handles waste. It's part of who I am, but it doesn't define me or limit what I can do. I wanted to tell you because I care about you and want to be open. I'm happy to answer any questions you might have, whenever you're ready."
💡 Disclosure Tips
Timing matters: Choose calm, private moments. Your choice: You're never obligated to disclose. Practice: Rehearse your preferred explanation. Confidence: Your comfort level sets the tone for others.
Campus & Workplace Resources Guide
Know your rights and available resources to advocate for yourself effectively.
College/University Resources
- Disability Services Office: Academic accommodations, note-taking services, extended test time
- Student Health Center: Medical support, counseling, referrals
- Counseling Services: Mental health support, adjustment counseling
- Housing Accommodations: Single rooms, accessible bathrooms, refrigerator for supplies
- Dining Services: Special dietary accommodations if needed
- Student Advocate: Help navigating bureaucracy and policies
- Peer Support Groups: Chronic illness or disability support groups
- Financial Aid: Medical expense assistance, emergency funds
Workplace Resources
- Human Resources: ADA accommodations, FMLA information
- Employee Assistance Program: Counseling, work-life balance support
- Occupational Health: Medical clearances, workplace safety
- Union Representative: Advocacy and protection (if applicable)
- Manager/Supervisor: Day-to-day accommodation implementation
- Benefits Coordinator: Insurance questions, medical leave
- Facility Services: Accessibility modifications
- Legal Resources: Employment law assistance if needed
🔍 Know Your Rights
ADA Protection: You're protected from discrimination. Reasonable Accommodations: Employers must provide unless it causes undue hardship. Privacy: Medical information must be kept confidential. No Retaliation: It's illegal to punish you for requesting accommodations.
🌟 You're Not Alone in This Journey
This survival kit gives you the practical tools, but real support comes from connecting with others who truly understand your experience. Join our community of young adults navigating college, career, and life with an ostomy.
Join Our Community
Questions about this guide? Reach out to us at info@youngostomatecollective.com
We're here to support you every step of the way.