In this feature sponsored by Hollister Victoria Danson talks about living as an Ostomate for seven years. “I have shared my story to empower other ostomates. Hollister care and strive to make life more rewarding and dignified for people living with a stoma.”

Naming one’s stoma can lead to improved body confidence, and many people choose to name their stoma as part of the process of adapting post-surgery. Betty Poop, Paloma Stoma, Homer the Stoma and Pepe Le Pew are just a few of the names people have chosen for their stomas.

A side of having stoma surgery which is not discussed as often as physical changes, is the impact it can have on mental health. Vicky’s story illustrates perfectly why we need to get better at talking about mental health and stomas.

 Two very different stoma stories, one reliable solution. Here’s how Pelican ModaVi is helping two new converts to live life to its fullest.

This is a sponsored post by Pelican Healthcare)

The irrigation system has revolutionised my situation. Now, to a large part, I am back in control of my life again. Once I had got used to the process (which is very easy) it meant I could use it at a time to suit me and be confident for the next 24 hours at least.

With Valentine’s Day just a week away, many people will be swiping more vigorously on dating apps than usual. While meeting up might not be on the cards at the moment, some ostomates will be wondering when the ‘right time’ is to tell a potential date about their stoma.