Stoma Mythbusters: Clare Bernardi

24 September, 2025

From Sepsis to Strongwoman: Clare’s Inspiring Journey with an Ileostomy

Clare’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and sheer strength. It began with a diagnosis of chronic constipation that led to a subtotal colostomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis. For several years, this solution worked, but by 2014 her health had deteriorated, and she underwent J-pouch surgery.

Unfortunately, complications arose. Just five days after the procedure, her bowel ruptured, and she was rushed into emergency surgery. A permanent ileostomy was the only option to save her life. When she woke, she faced not only the shock of the surgery but also a battle with severe sepsis.

In those moments, when she was too weak to walk, she made a bold decision: she would fight back, and she would one day become a fitness instructor. Many around her assumed this was a fleeting thought brought on by her illness, but Clare proved otherwise.

Just one year later, she qualified as a Zumba instructor. Over the following decade, she expanded her skills, teaching multiple fitness classes and continually building her strength and confidence.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Clare later turned her focus to strength sports. She began training as a strongwoman with a dream of pulling a truck—and she made that dream a reality. In 2024, she competed in Wales’ Strongest Woman, placing 4th in the under 64kg category and proudly taking 1st place in the 9-tonne truck pull event. This achievement was more than a medal; it was proof that incredible things can be accomplished while living with an ileostomy.

Of course, the journey has not been without challenges. Clare still experiences pain and faces difficult days, but her message is clear: she will never give up. Her story is a powerful reminder that strength isn’t only about the body—it’s about the will to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.

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.