My Story
After suffering from Ulcerative Colitis for over 10 years, and enduring complications from multiple surgeries, my entire colon was removed, resulting in a permanent ileostomy.
It’s funny how long it took me to write this. Even though I have lived with an ostomy for almost a decade, and am confident offering support and speaking about my condition, I find myself feeling vulnerable about being open here. I suppose it takes me back to the feelings I had at the beginning of my story. The stigma and fears you (or someone you know) might be feeling now.
I first got sick when I was 18, and spent my 20’s as a young professional, madly dashing from boardroom to bathroom. As a young mother, I would race down the hallway carrying my baby’s highchair to spend countless, painful hours in the washroom. Ultimately my illness prevented me from working, due to chronic pain and fatigue, and my quality of life was very poor. Looking back it’s hard to believe I thought life could be worse, but because of the stigma of having an ostomy, I stayed sick a lot longer than necessary.
With society’s emphasis on appearance, it’s challenging to maintain a positive body image with an ostomy. The fear of judgment and rejection can create depression and isolation. Initially, it can be upsetting and demoralizing, and imagining normal activities, not-to-mention intimacy can be overwhelming.
Between my full time job, traveling and trying out all sorts of activities I thought I could never do again, I founded myKareKit.com. The website offers product reviews and a style guide so you can get back to everything you did before your surgery and more. This blog supports myKareKit.com
When I talk with people who share my condition, I often recognize shame in their eyes, and when they look into mine, they see the shame is gone. It is my intention to offer a light and informative resource and my hope that you will move forward with me today.
Sincerely,
Karen
Note: myKarekit.com solution items featured are never paid for advertising. I feature those products I like or things I have actually reviewed. Ads will be clearly marked.Click here for information on advertising or submitting a product for review.
Hi Karen, I finally got your web site from your mum. I think what you have done is great and very encouraging to new ostomy patients. As you know I had my surgery over 40 years ago when there was not any outside help. Being able to sew was a great help and I designed all my bathing suits. I make panties out of swim suit material which gives extra support. I am still very active and life is wonderful. Wishing you all the best in your venture and healthy life.
Best wishes Irene
Irene – How wonderful to hear from you! I still remember talking with you by phone before I took the plunge to surgery. I can almost hear your voice, “it’s not a bed of roses” you said, then went on to tell me of your active life.
It was very special to meet you in person and to read your words here. Thanks for continuing to inspire and encourage! I am now simply doing what you did for me then.
Fondly,
Karen
Hi Karen! I think what you’re doing is great too! I’ve been living with my ostomy for almost 6 years now. Time flies! Your style tips are great on here too. I find that if I’m covered well with a cute top that has just the right cut, I have so much more confidence. Wouldn’t it be great to have a tv show like “What Not to Wear,” but call it something like, “What to Wear With an Ostomy.”
I love straight talk about our challenges. It’s so refreshing. I can’t imagine all the suffering you went through before you decided to have your surgery. Mine was due to cancer and I’m just happy to be alive. Who cares how I have to go to the bathroom! lol
Hi Karen,
Stumbled upon your blog through WordPress Tag Surfer. So glad I did! I’ve really enjoyed reading your archives, and I checked out your website – spectacular!! Hope you don’t mind if I link to both your blog and your website from my blog.
I’ve got Crohn’s disease and been an ostomate since age 15. Kudos to you for being so open, and being willing to use your experience to help others! And thanks for linking to UOAA
Best wishes,
Kristin Knipp
UOAA Pres. Elect.
Karen-
Nursing school has given me incredible opportunities in the last year. One of those was the chance to listen to you speak to our program about your journey and living with an ostomy. You were eloquent, positive, and realistic. You have helped shape some of us to be better nurses (and people) by having the courage to be real and share your story. I look forward to sharing your blog as a resource for my future patients.
Thank you!
Gina
Shoreline Community College
Nursing