“I was rushed into hospital in Northern Ireland in 2015 with severe abdominal pain and feeling extremely unwell, nausea and vomiting i was not in a good way.  I was rushed into surgery and awoke approx 8 hours later to find i now had a stoma bag attached to my abdominal area, I had undergone a Hartman's procedure and had approx 1ft of my large intestine removed due to infection.

I felt so low and depressed, but i thought to myself I can not let this beat me, so after my recovery I tried to continue my life as best I could, I then unfortunately, as in a lot of causes ended up with a large Parastomal Hernia.  I then found I lost all confidence as I could not wear certain clothes, anxiety and not wanting to go out and when i did I was so worried of who was looking at me, I became slightly more depressed and worst of all I struggled with keeping myself fit. 

I then joined Colostomy UK and found that I was not alone, I was able to get advice, support, even vent my frustration when I needed....Colostomy UK truly helped and supported and I am so grateful.  

Thankfully in March 2018 I had a successful Reversal in Craigavon Hospital, Northern Ireland, I have all but fully recovered in 2 months, which has amazed me and my doctors.  I am eating right, starting to get back into my fitness (slowly and controlled) and most of all my confidence is gradually getting better and better.  Yes I have bad days still, the scars but hey, they are there to remind me that without the great work of the Doctors and Nurses, the support Colostomy UK, and mainly from having a Stoma,  I may not of been here today.  

I am now privileged to by part of such an amazing Charity and I have also been made an official Ambassador for TeamColostomyUKRL which is an honour.  Support from Colostomy UK is second to none, great events, advice and really raising awareness of this hidden disability that NO ONE....should ever be ashamed of, or feel they have no one to turn too in their time of need.