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My name is Taylor Mitchell-Ross and I'm in my 30's. I had ostomy surgery due to severe idiopathic constipation and undiagnosed muscle and nerve disorders. I have a loop ileostomy currently but ultimately plan to have an end ileostomy. My ostomy surgery was planned as a last resort for
providing me a chance at a healthier life.
How did you feel before having ostomy surgery?
I was so desperate for relief, I didn't care much about what I was getting or what the surgery entailed. I just wanted it to work. I wanted relief above all else.
How do you feel now after ostomy surgery?
I feel so much better! I'm still undiagnosed, have symptoms, and difficult days but I'm actually able to function most days and participate in my own life again. That is priceless.
Tell us about your hobbies. Any new ones since surgery?
I create custom wooden flower arrangements, do axe throwing, and run my Ostomy and Stuff Instagram.
What do you know now that you wish you knew before having surgery?
I wish I knew that having an ostomy is an ever evolving journey full of trial and error that requires patience.
What are your favorite ostomy products from Convatec?
The Esteem+ 1 pc moldable bag and the Esenta Adhesive Remover spray.
Featured Products
Featured Articles
10/10/2024
Travel
Traveling with an Ostomy: What to Pack
The idea of taking long trips with an ostomy may seem daunting at first. But with a little extra preparation, you can...
Read more Read more17/10/2025
Everyday life
Travel
Road Trips with an Ostomy
Now that you have an ostomy, the idea of taking long trips can seem daunting. But with a little extra preparation, yo...
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Travel
Ostomy Travel Tips
Extra security precautions are being taken at airports and other transit hubs worldwide. A little pre-planning and un...
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Diet
Everyday life
Living with an ostomy: Hydration
Drinking more is one of the simplest ways to improve your health and well-being. These tips can help you stay one ste...
Read more Read more17/10/2025
Fashion
Fashion Tips for Men Living with an Ostomy
After ostomy surgery you can wear the same clothes as anyone else – and do it with style! Here are some fashion tips ...
Read more Read more7/10/2025
Fashion
Fashion tips for women living with an ostomy
Here are some practical fashion tips from Jearlean Taylor, a successful model, author, and businesswoman who has neve...
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Everyday life
Tips for Managing Anxiety After Ostomy Surgery
One of the biggest worries for people who have recently had ostomy surgery is what other people will think.
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Everyday life
Returning to Work with an Ostomy
From industrial jobs to the classroom, from long shifts at the hospital to dancers – and all workplaces in between – ...
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Everyday life
Back to school with an ostomy
As your child begins to recover from ostomy surgery, it is normal for them to feel fearful or anxious about their nee...
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Activity
Exercise After Surgery: Back to Basics
No matter what level of physical activity you want to pursue, ostomy surgery shouldn’t hold you back.
Read more Read more8/10/2025
Everyday life
Everyday Life - Bathing with an Ostomy
Showering and bathing with an ostomy should not interfere with your regular cleaning routine. With the right informa...
Read more Read more27/11/2024
Everyday life
Peristomal Skin Care
Knowing how to identify irritated skin around your stoma early and keeping it healthy could help avoid greater compli...
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