Parastomal Hernias: Prevention, recovery, and real-life insights.

Parastomal Hernias: Prevention, recovery, and real-life insights.

In partnership with Convatec.

Date: Wednesday 11th November 2026
Time: 1pm – 2pm
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Cost: Free to attend

Parastomal hernias can be a common complication following stoma surgery, but there are steps you can take to help reduce your risk and manage them effectively. Join us for expert advice, practical tips and real-life experiences to help you feel more informed and confident.

We’ll cover:

• The role of rehabilitation, exercise, movement, and core strength after stoma surgery
• Practical tips to help reduce the risk of developing a hernia
• Information on the Convatec me+ Recovery Programme and available patient support
• “The Hernia Puzzle”: Sarah Russell’s lived experience and practical insights on living with a parastomal hernia
• Live Q&A with the speakers and experts

Who is it for?

Anyone living with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, whether you already have a parastomal hernia or want to learn more about reducing your risk of developing one. The session may also be helpful for those preparing for stoma surgery, as well as family members, carers and anyone supporting someone with a stoma.

About the Speakers

Nelam Kumari BSc – Clinical Educator, Convatec

Nelam is a Clinical Educator in Stoma Care, with over 20 years of nursing experience. Nelam holds a degree in Stoma Care and has specialist training in Tissue Viability and Wound Management, with a clinical background in cardiothoracic surgery and wound care.

Sarah Russell – Clinical Exercise Specialist

Sarah lives in East Sussex with her husband John and teenage boys Eddie and Charlie. Sarah’s had an ileostomy since 2010. She has more than two decades of experience as an exercise professional, and specialises in training and coaching people who have a diagnosis of cancer or those who, like herself, have undergone stoma surgery.

Sarah has competed at an international level in both rowing and triathlon. So, when in 2010 she needed emergency surgery to treat life threatening peritonitis caused by perforated diverticulitis, it came as a huge shock. But her surgery didn’t go to plan, and Sarah needed five operations over the following 2 years to treat various complications. Eventually after her reversal surgery was unsuccessful, she literally begged her surgeon to put her stoma back. Now with her ileostomy she has her quality of life back. She is healthy, fit, and happy; able to eat normally and run up mountains again

Find out more and book your place.

We look forward to welcoming you.