Stoma Mythbusters: Bobbie Minshull

18 September, 2025

Living with a stoma often comes with a lot of myths and misconceptions. Many people worry about how life might change, or they’ve heard stories that simply aren’t true. In this post, I want to tackle a couple of the most common myths — and share a real-life case study that shows how different reality can be.

Myth 1: “People will ignore me if they know I have a stoma.”

The truth? That’s simply not the case.

Firstly, you don’t have to tell anyone you have a stoma — that choice is entirely yours. Most of the time, people won’t even know unless you decide to share it. You don’t suddenly grow a sign on your forehead that says, “I have a stoma.”

Life carries on as normal, and relationships, conversations, and connections stay exactly the same. If you want to talk about it, you can. If you’d rather keep it private, that’s fine too. Either way, people don’t start treating you differently just because of a stoma.

Myth 2: “You can’t play sports with a stoma.”

This is another big one — and again, it’s just not true.

Take this case study:

“I play golf three or four times a week. I also ski and go swimming. I actually have two stomas, and neither of them stops me from enjoying sports. I run around and play ball games with my grandchildren as well.”

This story is proof that having a stoma doesn’t mean giving up the activities you love. Whether it’s team sports, fitness classes, or simply running around with your family, a stoma doesn’t have to hold you back.

The Bottom Line

Myths around stomas can be damaging and isolating — but the reality is far brighter. With the right support, products, and mindset, people with stomas can live full, active, and social lives.

If you take away one thing from this blog, let it be this:
A stoma doesn’t define who you are, and it certainly doesn’t stop you from living the life you want.

How You Can Get Involved

• Share the myths you’ve heard about stomas—and help us spread the truth that busts them.

• Become a MythBusters case study like Ruth—show others what’s possible with lived experience.

• Spread the word locally—help distribute MythBusters packs and flyers to challenge stigma in your community.