Relationships: Loving Yourself

On today’s episode we are going to talk about support and resources for people living with an ostomy. From ostomy nurses to local support groups, and even engaging online safely. And we are excited to have a special guest with us, Allison Rosen. Allison’s story is incredible, from colorectal cancer in her 30s to emergency surgeries, and now living with an ileostomy and working to ensure people get screened for cancer regularly. She is a patient advocate of the best kind. This episode is also available in video format on YouTube.

In episode 8, Matt & Rene dive into diet & nutrition with an ostomy, with the help of Wendie Taylor, registered dietitian and ostomy product specialist. They'll talk through general guidelines, hydration and introducing foods back into your diet safely following surgery.

In episode 7, Matt and Rene take us through ostomy product basics. Learn more about different pouch systems available, including more info about newer technologies designed to increase pouch performance. Whether you just had surgery last week or years ago, we're sure you'll learn something new in today's episode.

One of the most important relationships in your ostomy journey is with yourself. Fashion model and double ostomate, Jearlean Taylor, joins us to talk about learning to love yourself and feeling comfortable in your own skin.

We continue our 3-part series on relationships with an ostomy by talking about dating and intimacy. We’ll be joined by Sarah Biggart, manager of Ostomysecrets® and living with an ostomy since 2004. She’ll share some insights and words of wisdom as you navigate dating with an ostomy.

Tough question: How and when do you tell someone about your ostomy? Episode 4 kicks off a 3-part discussion around relationships with a discussion on talking to other people about your stoma. Matt and Rene are joined by ostomy support specialist, Tekele to get real about having these conversations.

We are wrapping up the three-part series on life after ostomy surgery with a discussion on mental recovery. For many, this is the most difficult portion of resuming life after ostomy surgery. Matt and Rene will be joined by Ellen, a me+ ostomy support specialist, to talk through tough issues like comparison, finding the right support, accepting the new normal, and more.

In episode 2, we continue in the three-part series on life after ostomy surgery, with me+™ Recovery. me+™ Recovery will guide you through gentle recovery movements for people that have just had ostomy – or any other type of abdominal – surgery. These movements may help you reconnect those abdominal muscles after surgery, which may help you to recover more quickly.

In episode one, we kick off a three-part series on life after ostomy surgery: How has your body changed? Whether are you've just recently had ostomy surgery or if you've been living with in ostomy for some time now, we will talk through how your body has changed and tips and tricks for becoming more comfortable with those changes.