Resources & Practical Guides

Essential tools, checklists, and resources designed specifically for young adults living with ostomies

🎒

Emergency Kit Essentials

Practical

A comprehensive guide to building the perfect emergency kit for home, work, and travel. Never be caught unprepared again.

  • Complete supply checklist
  • Recommended quantities
  • Storage and organization tips
  • Travel adaptations
💰

Insurance & Financial Help

Financial

Navigate insurance coverage, find financial assistance programs, and understand your rights as someone with a medical condition.

  • Insurance navigation guide
  • Financial assistance programs
  • Medicare/Medicaid resources
  • Prescription assistance programs
🛍️

Product Recommendations

Reviews

Real reviews from young ostomates about products that actually work. No marketing fluff, just honest experiences.

  • Bags and adhesives by brand
  • Clothing and accessories
  • Skin care products
  • Travel gear recommendations
👩‍⚕️

Doctor Visit Prep

Medical

Make the most of your medical appointments with structured preparation guides and question templates.

  • Pre-visit preparation checklist
  • Questions to ask your surgeon
  • Questions for your ostomy nurse
  • Symptom tracking templates
🏢

Workplace Disclosure Guide

Career

A decision framework to help you navigate whether, when, and how to disclose your ostomy at work.

  • Disclosure decision tree
  • Legal rights and protections
  • Accommodation request templates
  • Managing workplace relationships
✈️

Travel Planning Kit

Lifestyle

Everything you need to travel confidently with an ostomy, from packing lists to TSA tips.

  • TSA and security guidelines
  • International travel considerations
  • Packing strategies and lists
  • Emergency contact templates

Quick Reference Checklists

Basic Emergency Kit

  • 2-3 complete ostomy systems (your usual brand/size)
  • Adhesive remover wipes
  • Skin barrier wipes or spray
  • Small scissors (TSA-approved if traveling)
  • Measuring guide or template
  • Disposal bags
  • Small bottle of water
  • Paper towels or tissues
  • Change of underwear
  • Emergency contact information

First Doctor Visit Questions

  • What type of ostomy do I have and why was it needed?
  • Is this temporary or permanent?
  • What should I expect during recovery?
  • What activities should I avoid and for how long?
  • How do I know if something is wrong?
  • Who do I call with questions after hours?
  • When should I follow up?
  • What supplies do I need and where do I get them?
  • Are there foods I should avoid?
  • When can I return to work/school/normal activities?

🚨 Emergency Situations - When to Seek Help

Call your doctor or go to the ER immediately if you experience:

  • No output from your ostomy for more than 6-8 hours (with cramping)
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Nausea and vomiting that won't stop
  • High fever (over 101.5°F)
  • Severe dehydration
  • Changes in stoma color (very pale, dark, or blue)
  • Stoma pulling back into your abdomen
  • Excessive bleeding from the stoma
  • Deep cuts or lacerations around the stoma

Always trust your instincts. If something feels seriously wrong, seek medical attention.

Helpful Organizations & Resources

United Ostomy Associations of America

National organization providing support and resources for ostomates.

Visit Website →

Wound, Ostomy & Continence Nurses Society

Find certified ostomy nurses in your area.

Find a Nurse →

Phoenix Magazine

Free quarterly magazine for ostomates with practical tips and stories.

Subscribe Free →

Ostomy Support Groups

Find local and online support groups in your area.

Find Support →

Young Ostomate Collective

Questions about our resources or community? We're here to help young adults navigate ostomy life.

Contact Us →