The Beautiful Bag

In this episode, I, LeeAnne Hayden, emphasize the crucial role of nutrition in maintaining overall health and well-being. I stress the importance of consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats.

Throughout the discussion, I recognize that individual preferences and tolerances vary, urging listeners to experiment and find what works best for their bodies.

Supplementation is highlighted as a means to address potential nutrient deficiencies, particularly in light of changes in food quality and soil. I recommend high-quality supplements while advising listeners to consult healthcare providers before starting any supplementation regimen.

Furthermore, I stress the significance of managing fluid intake, emphasizing hydration and the addition of electrolytes to water for optimal hydration. Listeners are encouraged to visit my website LeeAnneHayden.com for more information and resources on wellness.

I also provide strategies for dining out, including reading menus carefully, asking about ingredients, and making adjustments to meals when necessary. Drawing from personal experiences, such as challenges after surgery, I underscore the importance of seeking expert advice from healthcare professionals, nutritionists, dieticians, and WOCN nurses.

Finally, I invite listeners to connect with me on Instagram @instagram, YouTube LeeAnneHayden, and through my website LeeAnneHayden.com. Additionally, I offer a free wellness guide on my website for those interested in further resources.

Join us this week as Nikki Kilpatrick shares her inspiring journey through ostomy surgery and the profound impact of mindset and community support on her recovery. Nikki's story highlights the power of connecting with others who have undergone similar experiences, emphasizing the importance of positivity and advocacy in facing health challenges. Tune in to discover how Nikki's journey of resilience and empowerment can inspire hope and change lives.

Guest: Nikki Kilpatrick

Key Points:

• Nikki shares her experience of waking up from surgery to find her ostomy had been created differently than expected.
• Despite initial shock, Nikki embraced her new reality and found empowerment through self-care and community support.
• Connecting with others on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok helped Nikki find hope and strength during her recovery.
• Nikki emphasizes the importance of mindset and positive community in facing health challenges and advocating for the treatment one deserves.
• By sharing her story, Nikki hopes to inspire others to find hope, resilience, and empowerment in their own journeys.

Resources:

• Connect with Nikki on Instagram and TikTok for more inspiring content.
• Explore ostomy support groups on Facebook for community and guidance.
• Check out the "Beautiful Bag" podcast for stories of resilience and empowerment from individuals with ostomies.

Host: LeeAnne Hayden 

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
• Visit our website for more episodes and resources: leeannehayden.com

Title: Embracing Self-Love: Body Positivity and Self-Esteem

Description: Join host LeeAnne Hayden in this powerful episode of the Beautiful Bag podcast as she delves into the crucial topics of body positivity and self-esteem. With a compassionate heart and insightful perspective, LeeAnne guides listeners through practical steps to cultivate self-love and acceptance, especially in the face of challenges like living with a stoma.

In this episode, LeeAnne reflects on her own journey and shares personal experiences, offering relatable insights for listeners. From making the decision to love oneself to setting small achievable goals and practicing positive self-talk, she provides actionable strategies to uplift and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty and worth.

Discover the importance of surrounding oneself with positive role models and fostering a supportive community for mutual encouragement and growth. LeeAnne's heartfelt message reminds us all that we are loved, valued, and deserving of self-compassion.

Tune in to this episode for inspiration, encouragement, and practical tips on how to nurture self-love and celebrate the beauty within.

Show Notes:

• Introduction:

  • Host: LeeAnne Hayden
  • Theme: Body Positivity and Self-Esteem
  • Dedicated to spreading love and empowerment

• Body Positivity:

  • Importance of self-love and acceptance
  • Overcoming societal norms and comparisons
  • Making the decision to love oneself unconditionally

• Self-Esteem Building:

  • Setting small achievable goals
  • Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations
  • Dressing in a way that makes you feel confident
  • Finding supportive role models and communities

• Community Engagement:

  • Invitation to join the Beautiful Bag community on Telegram
  • Sharing the podcast episode to spread love and encouragement

• Conclusion:

  • Reaffirmation of self-worth and beauty
  • Gratitude for listeners and commitment to making a positive impact

Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights in the comments section and to join the Beautiful Bag community for ongoing support and encouragement. Together, let's embrace self-love and celebrate the beauty within each of us.

Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:

• Instagram: @beautifulbagpodcast
• Instagram:  @leeannehayden
• TikTok: @beautifulbagpodcast
• TikTok @leeannehayden1
• YouTube: LeeAnne Hayden 

Join the Beautiful Bag Community on Telegram: [Link]

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode inspiring and helpful!

In this episode of The Beautiful Bag, host LeeAnne Hayden sits down with Jenny Harrison, a remarkable individual whose journey with gastrointestinal challenges serves as a testament to the power of strength and determination.

Introduction: LeeAnne and Jenny dive deep into Jenny's journey, exploring the highs and lows, the triumphs and tribulations, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.

Key Points Covered:

1. The Beginning of the Journey: Jenny shares the story of how her journey with gastrointestinal challenges began, from the removal of her gallbladder to the discovery of adhesions.
2. Navigating the Unknown: Facing high output, dietary restrictions, and the constant threat of obstructions, Jenny discusses the daily challenges she encounters and how she perseveres through them.
3. Finding Strength in Community: Through her work at Girls With Guts, Jenny found a supportive community of individuals who understood her struggles, offering encouragement, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
4. Embracing the Journey: Jenny shares how she learned to embrace her ostomy as a symbol of strength and resilience, empowering herself to live life on her own terms.
5. A Message of Hope: Jenny's journey serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing gastrointestinal challenges, reminding us that with resilience, courage, and support, we can overcome even the greatest of obstacles.

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Beautiful Bag on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
• Follow LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden
• Folllow Girls with Guts on Instagram @ibdgirls
• Join the conversation and share your story using the hashtag #TheBeautifulBag

Tune in to this inspiring episode to discover the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing life's challenges with courage and grace.

Weekly Newsletter: Don't miss out on the latest episodes and updates from The Beautiful Bag! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected and receive exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and more. Subscribe Now

LeeAnne greets listeners and wishes them a happy Valentine's Day. She explains that her husband was supposed to join her for the episode but couldn't make it. Instead, she discusses the theme of love and relationships, reflecting on her own journey with her husband.

Discussion Highlights:

• • LeeAnne shares the story of how she and her husband met and the challenges they faced blending their families.
  • She discusses how their relationship evolved over the years and how they faced the unexpected challenge of her cancer diagnosis and ostomy surgery together.
  • LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of communication in their relationship, sharing personal anecdotes about how they navigate difficult moments and maintain intimacy.

Key Takeaways:

• • • Love is about supporting each other through challenges, even when the path seems uncertain.
    • Communication and honesty are essential for maintaining a strong relationship.
    • Intimacy and connection evolve but remain important aspects of a partnership.

Closing Remarks: LeeAnne wishes listeners a happy Valentine's Day and previews the next episode featuring guest Jenny Harrison. She encourages listeners to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with others who may benefit from it.

Episode Summary:

Join LeeAnne Hayden, broadcasting from a snowy New Hampshire loft, for an enlightening solo episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast." As we journey through the heart of winter, LeeAnne shares eye-opening statistics that underscore the vastness and diversity of the global ostomy community. With insights gathered from a recent brand awareness consultation, this episode sheds light on the 13.5 million individuals worldwide living with an ostomy, revealing the balance between male and female ostomates and touching on the myriad reasons behind their ostomy surgeries. Tune in for a deep dive into the cultural, healthcare, and individual stories that make up our ostomy community.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Global Ostomy Community: Discover the staggering number of ostomates worldwide and the sense of belonging it brings.
• Gender Distribution: Uncover the nearly even split between male and female ostomates and what it signifies.
• Diverse Reasons for Ostomy: From cancer to IBD and accidents, the many paths leading to ostomy surgery.
• Cultural and Healthcare Variances: How different cultures and healthcare systems impact ostomy care and perception.
• Advocacy and Awareness: The importance of sharing personal stories and how you can contribute to global awareness.
• Resources and Support: A guide to international ostomy organizations offering support, education, and advocacy.

Resources Mentioned:

• United Ostomy Associations of America: ostomy.org
• Ostomy Canada Society: ostomycanada.ca
• International Ostomy Association: ostomyinternational.org
• Colostomy UK: colostomyuk.org
• European Ostomy Association: ostomyeurope.org
• Australian Council of Stoma Associations: australianstoma.com.au
• Friends of Ostomates Worldwide: fowusa.org

(Note: Replace "#" with the actual URLs)

Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:

• Website: leeannehayden.com
• Instagram: [@LeeAnneHayden]
• Twitter: [@LeeAnneHayden]

Subscribe and Review:

Don't forget to subscribe to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Your reviews help spread awareness and connect us with more of the ostomy community.

Next Episode Teaser:

February's episodes will be all about love and relationships, just in time for Valentine's Day. Stay tuned for heartfelt stories, interviews, and LeeAnne's insights on navigating relationships with an ostomy.

In this solo episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," host LeeAnne Hayden shares invaluable insights and personal experiences about traveling with an ostomy. From preparing for your journey, whether by plane, train, or automobile, to practical advice on managing your ostomy supplies, LeeAnne covers it all. Tune in to learn about handling airport security, adjusting to different time zones, and ensuring a comfortable travel experience.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Preparation for Travel: Tips for packing ostomy supplies, including flanges, bags, and emergency items.
• Air Travel with an Ostomy: Navigating airport security, managing in-flight needs, and TSA guidelines.
• Personal Stories: LeeAnne’s experiences in Honduras and tips learned from other ostomy patients.
• Hydration and Diet: The importance of staying hydrated during flights and adjusting to time zone changes.
• Ostomy-Friendly Accommodations: Advice for hotel stays and using disability bathrooms.

Resources Mentioned:

• April Wilson’s Ostomy Bag Covers and Travel Kits
• United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) Travel Certificate
• Link to UOAA website

Connect with LeeAnne:

• Website: LeeAnnehayden.com
• Instagram: @leeAnnehayden
• LinkedIn: LeeAnne's LinkedIn

Subscribe and Review:
Don’t forget to subscribe to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on your favorite podcast platform. Your reviews and feedback are invaluable and help reach new listeners.

Contact Us:
Share your own travel tips and stories related to living with an ostomy by emailing LeeAnne@leeannehayden.com

Acknowledgments:
A special thanks to our community for sharing their experiences and to April Wilson for her amazing ostomy travel kits.

In This Episode:

• Celebrating 4 Years: Reflecting on the journey of 'The Beautiful Bag Podcast' now entering its fourth year.
• Gratitude: A heartfelt thank you to listeners for tuning in weekly and sharing in the stories of resilience and inspiration.
• Surviving and Thriving: Emphasizing the importance of resilience and thriving despite life's obstacles.
• Building Community: Plans to create an online presence for listeners of the podcast.
• Personal Milestones: Celebrating LeeAnne's eighth anniversary of surviving cancer and having her stoma.
• Reflecting on Change: How LeeAnne’s life transformed post-cancer, including her career shift and embracing new challenges.
• The Power of Self-Appreciation: Discussing the importance of loving and appreciating your body, especially after major health changes.
• Journaling and Meditation: Tips on how to use journaling and meditation to cope with life’s challenges and improve mental health.
• Embracing Wellness: Encouraging listeners to embrace their bodies and wellness, with specific strategies and affirmations.
• Upcoming Speaking Engagement: LeeAnne shares her upcoming visit to Hollister’s manufacturing plant in Virginia.

Connect with LeeAnne:

• Website: LeeAnneHayden.com
• Instagram: @leeannehayden
• TikTok: @leeannehayden1
• Facebook: @leeannehayden07

Free Resources:

• Confidence Building Affirmations for Ostomates: Sign up and download affirmations designed for ostomates.
• Embracing Wellness Guide: A guide to help start the new year with wellness-focused practices.

Next Episode Preview: Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and empowering discussions in our next episode.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave a review for 'The Beautiful Bag Podcast'!

In this episode, LeeAnne Hayden engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sara Levitt about her life with an ostomy. Sara shares her personal experiences, including her struggles and triumphs in dealing with Crohn's disease, her journey towards self-acceptance, and how she has become a source of inspiration for others.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to the episode and guests
• Sara's visibility on Instagram and how she captured attention
• Discussing Sara's lengthy journey with her health condition
• Sara's experiences with Crohn's disease and her surgeries
• The challenges of growing up with an ostomy and societal perceptions
• Sara's journey in overcoming stigma and building self-confidence
• The significance of community support and sharing experiences
• Sara's approach to coping with and accepting her ostomy
• The transition of her ostomy from temporary to permanent
• Strategies Sara employed for self-love and awareness
• Pivotal moments in Sara's journey of self-acceptance
• The impact of sharing her ostomy story on her relationships
• The role of social media in Sara's journey and its influence on others
• Sara's advice for listeners facing similar challenges
• Concluding thoughts and words of encouragement

Key Quotes:

• "My biggest fear became my greatest blessing." - Sara Levitt
• "Never compare yourself to others; compare yourself to a past version of you." - Sara Levitt
• "The ostomy gave me my life back." - Sara Levitt

Resources Mentioned:

• Uncover Ostomy by Jessica Grossman
• Social media platforms for community support (e.g., Instagram, TikTok)

Connect with Sara Levitt:

• Instagram:  Sara's Instagram 

Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:

• Instagram:  LeeAnne's Instagram
  

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Closing Remarks: Host LeeAnne Hayden concludes the episode by reflecting on Sara's powerful story, emphasizing the themes of courage, self-love, and the importance of community support.

Listen to More Episodes:

• Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.

Follow The Beautiful Bag Podcast:

• Instagram: Podcast Instagram 

Hello, beautiful souls! I'm LeeAnne Hayden, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to another inspiring episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast." Whether you're tuning in during your morning coffee or unwinding at night, I want to express my deepest gratitude for being a part of our amazing community.

Episode Highlights:

1. A Personal Journey: In this episode, I wanted to share my own journey dealing with blockages and how it has affected my life. For those who might not know my story, let me give you a glimpse into my world.

2. Life Before My Ostomy: At 39 years old, I was deeply immersed in corporate America that turned into a successful run in network marketing. 

3. The Unexpected Turn: Despite my commitment to a healthy lifestyle, I started experiencing discomfort and growth in my abdomen, leading to an unexpected diagnosis of a rare sarcoma tumor.

4. The Ostomy Surgery: After two surgeries and the removal of the tumor, I was left with an ostomy, which I've now had for nearly 8 years. This marked a significant change in my life, but it also allowed me to continue pursuing my passions.

5. The Battle with Blockages: Over the years, I've had to navigate the challenges of ostomy life, including dealing with blockages caused by adhesions. I've learned some valuable lessons on how to manage these situations.

6. Tips for Coping: In this episode, I shared tips for dealing with blockages and abdominal discomfort. One surprising remedy is sipping on Coca-Cola, which can help alleviate symptoms. I also emphasized the importance of hydration and listening to your body's signals.

Conclusion: Living with an ostomy is a journey filled with ups and downs, but it's essential to stay informed and proactive about our health. Remember, your body is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to pay attention to your body's signals, hydrate, and seek medical advice when needed.

Thank you for being part of "The Beautiful Bag" community, and if you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it on social media and tagging me @LeeAnneHayden on Instagram

• LeeAnne Hayden, host of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," welcomes listeners to Episode 118, expressing gratitude for their continual support and encouraging them to share the podcast on social media.
• Reminder: LeeAnne encourages listeners on Apple Podcasts to leave ratings and reviews to help promote the show.

Guest Introduction:

• Crystal, a double ostomate, sarcoma cancer survivor, and Crohn's disease fighter, shares her compelling journey.
• The episode focuses on her diagnosis, the challenges she faced, and her resilience in overcoming adversity.

Crystal’s Journey:

• Diagnosed in February 2022 after a severe bladder issue, leading to an ER visit and subsequent discovery of her condition.
• Underwent multiple treatments and surgeries, including chemotherapy and a complex procedure resulting in a colostomy, urostomy, and partial hysterectomy.
• Emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, as Crystal pushed for a CT scan against initial medical advice.

Challenges and Recovery:

• Discusses the mental and physical challenges post-surgery, including adapting to life with ostomy bags and managing related complications.
• Shares strategies for coping with mental health issues, including finding comfort in ASMR and Reiki videos.
• Crystal highlights the value of the ostomy community on social media for support and advice.

Life After Surgery:

• Returning to work and the accommodations made for her comfort and convenience.
• Discusses her first vacation post-surgery, a cruise, addressing the challenges and adjustments required for traveling with an ostomy.
• Shares a humorous story about managing her ostomy in an unexpected situation.

Final Thoughts:

• Crystal’s advice to listeners: Take time with healing and don’t rush the recovery process.
• LeeAnne discusses her own experiences with sarcoma, emphasizing the rarity and complexity of the condition.

In Episode #117 of "The Beautiful Bag" podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by Raphaela, a former flight attendant from the UK, to discuss her transformative journey with an ostomy bag. Diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer, Raphaela shares her story, from her initial diagnosis and surgery to how she embraced life with a stoma. We delve into the importance of self-advocacy, the impact of cancer on personal and professional life, and how she's now living life to the fullest. Don't miss this inspiring episode about strength, resilience, and finding a new focus in life.

Links:

• Follow LeeAnne Hayden on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok
• The Beautiful Bag Podcast Instagram | TikTok

This week is a repeat episode - bringing it back with the OG Jearlean Taylor 

This woman is miraculous!

She has had both of her bags since she was 3 years old after a rare form of childhood cancer required her to get a Colostomy as well as a Urostomy.

After years of being apprehensive to share her story, she finally realized that she had to talk to others about her journey and raise awareness of what it was to have an Ostomy.

Her mom always told her to embrace everything that she had gone through and just share her story.

Once she was able to talk more about her Double Ostomy, the world opened up to endless possibilities. She realized that life doesn't have to stop. That you don't have to give up anything.

She started speaking more about her journey in church and to others and it opened up the door to modeling, something she never thought she had a passion for, but now it has become a dream of hers. She wants others to know that they can do whatever they want!

" I am not defined by my circumstances. You are not defined by your circumstances! You can live your life to the fullest in spite of…. In spite of it all!"

Take a listen to today's podcast! You are going to love Jearlean! I just know it!!

In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden and guest Kristi Tanner discuss Kristi's journey with colon cancer and living with an ostomy. Here are the key discussion points highlighted from the episode:

1. Struggles with Colonoscopy Approval:

   • Kristi turned 50 in March 2020, just when the world was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. She didn't think she needed a colonoscopy since colon cancer wasn't in her family history.
   • Kristi began experiencing symptoms such as bleeding, painful bowel movements, and fatigue, which she initially didn't attribute to colon cancer.
   • It took significant effort and advocacy to get approval for a colonoscopy, including calling multiple times to ensure the process moved forward.

2. Diagnosed with Stage 3B Colon Cancer:

   • Kristi eventually received her colonoscopy and was shocked to learn she had colon cancer. The cancer was diagnosed as stage 3B, indicating potential lymph node involvement.
   • They discuss the symptoms Kristi experienced, including rectal bleeding, frequent bowel movements, cramping, and fatigue.

3. Treatment Plan and Challenges:

   • Kristi's treatment plan involved radiation and chemotherapy before surgery.
   • She faced conflicting opinions about whether she would need an ostomy, and there was uncertainty regarding the order of surgery and chemotherapy.

4. Coping with Ostomy:

   • Kristi discusses her initial hesitation and concerns about living with an ostomy. She shares how an ostomy nurse helped her come to terms with it, emphasizing that the ostomy saved her life.
   • She describes how she came to embrace her ostomy, named it Stella, and found humor in the situation.

5. Post-Treatment Activities:

   • Kristi shares how she maintained an active lifestyle after her treatment, working out regularly, even doing a Spartan Race with an ostomy.
   • They highlight the importance of staying active for physical and mental health.

6. Spreading Awareness:

   • Kristi encourages listeners to advocate for themselves and get necessary medical appointments promptly.
   • She emphasizes the need to remove the stigma associated with ostomies and discusses the importance of talking about colon cancer to raise awareness.

Kristi's story serves as an inspiring example of resilience, advocacy, and embracing life with an ostomy after facing colon cancer.

In this heartfelt episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," host LeeAnne Hayden welcomes guest Nadia Di Rienzo, who shares her remarkable journey of resilience, living with an ostomy, and beating cancer. Nadia's story is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of advocacy in the ostomy community.

Key Takeaways:

• Nadia's Health Journey: Nadia's journey begins with her diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) at the tender age of 15. Her story underscores the challenges of navigating chronic illness from a young age.
• Medical Trials and IBD Management: Nadia talks about her years of managing UC through medical trials, medications, and the ups and downs of the disease.
• Unexpected Discovery: In the midst of a clinical trial, Nadia experienced symptoms that led to an unexpected revelation—a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
• The Surgery: Nadia's journey takes a dramatic turn as she undergoes a total proctocolectomy, resulting in an ileostomy. She discusses the shock and adjustments that came with the surgery.
• Post-Op Life: Nine months post-surgery, Nadia reflects on the challenges of adjusting to her new life with an ostomy. She shares insights about her sleep patterns and the adjustments she's made.
• Finding Strength in Exercise: Physical activity, a combination of weights and cardio, has been a crucial part of Nadia's post-op journey. She describes how she works with a physiotherapist to strengthen her abdomen safely.
• Dietary Adjustments: Nadia discusses the foods she can now enjoy and those she avoids to prevent blockages, including her love for grapefruit and cautiousness about sushi and certain vegetables.
• Wardrobe Choices: Clothing choices have been a part of her journey, and she details the adjustments she made in her post-op wardrobe.
• Advocacy and Breaking Stigmas: Nadia emphasizes the importance of sharing her journey on social media, normalizing ostomies, and raising awareness for IBD, colorectal cancer, and living with an ostomy.
• Facing Fears: Nadia opens up about the fears and anxieties she experienced regarding her children's understanding of her health challenges and how she managed to address them.
• A Message of Hope: Nadia's story is a testament to not fearing ostomies; she encourages those facing similar challenges to embrace their second chance at life and find positivity in the journey.

Connect with Us:

• Follow Nadia on social media and her blog: @gutsygirldiaries
  • • • https://gutsygirldiaries.com/
• Connect with LeeAnne Hayden on https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
  • • • https://leeannehayden.com/

Summary: In this inspiring episode of The Beautiful Bag, LeeAnne sits down with Patrick, also known as the "Ostomy Athlete" on Instagram. Patrick shares his remarkable journey of overcoming challenges and achieving incredible feats in extreme sports and mountaineering while living with an ostomy. His story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

Key Takeaways:

• Patrick's Introduction: Learn about Patrick, the "Ostomy Athlete," and his background.
• Embracing Extreme Sports: Discover how Patrick got into extreme sports and mountaineering.
• Living with an Ostomy: Patrick discusses his journey of living with an ostomy and how it has impacted his life.
• Overcoming Challenges: Hear about the unique challenges Patrick faces while pursuing his passion in extreme environments.
• Inspiring Others: Patrick's story serves as an inspiration to others in the ostomy community and beyond.
• Never Lose Hope: Patrick emphasizes the importance of never giving up and maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity.

Connect with Us:

• Follow Patrick, the "Ostomy Athlete," on Instagram @theostomyathlete.
• Visit Patrick's website theostomyathlete.com for more information and resources.
• Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram @leeannehayden. & @thebeautifulbagpodcast
  • & at her website LeeAnnehayden.com

Episode #112: Navigating Life with an Ostomy Bag - Tips and Insights

In this week's episode we discuss: 

• Carly's Ostomy Journey: She shares how she came to be in an ostomy
• Adjusting to Life with an Ostomy: What it took to adjust to having one. 
• Advocacy and Finding Support: How she found and created her support team 
• Advocacy Efforts and Challenges: She shares her advocacy work and how to find yours. 
• Promoting Awareness and Support: How important awareness is. 
• Understanding the Significance of a Stoma: A clear definition of what a stoma is and its significance in an ostomate's life.
• Advancements in Ostomy Bags: A discussion on the remarkable progress in ostomy bag design, focusing on enhanced comfort and discretion.
• The Great Bag Cover Debate: The age-old debate about whether to cover ostomy bags with decorative covers.
• Navigating Skin Issues: Carly's personal journey of dealing with skin issues and the pursuit of the perfect fit for ostomy care.
• Convexity and Bag Types: The importance of convexity for some ostomates and Carly's transition from deep to soft convexity.
• Adhesive Remover Spray: The vital role of adhesive remover spray in ensuring gentle bag changes and skin care.
• Traveling with Ostomy Supplies: Tips for always being prepared while traveling, especially when flying and going through security.
• Emergency Supplies: The importance of carrying essential supplies in your carry-on luggage and the potential support from hospitals in emergencies.
• Embracing Acceptance and Self-Love: An empowering message to ostomates, emphasizing the significance of self-acceptance and embracing one's uniqueness as a catalyst for personal growth.

This episode of the Beautiful Bag Podcast provides a comprehensive exploration of life with an ostomy bag, offering emotional support and a treasure trove of practical tips. Carly Allen's journey and her remarkable advocacy work serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment, inspiring ostomates worldwide to embrace their own journeys with acceptance and self-love.

Connect with us: 

Hollister Youtube video :  

LeeAnne on Instagram 

Carly on Instagram 

The Beautiful Bag on Instagram 

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Beautiful Bag Podcast with your host, LeeAnne Hayden. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with a remarkable guest, Taylor Mitchell. Taylor's journey through health challenges is anything but typical, and her resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Join us as we delve into Taylor's unique story and learn about her experiences and her life-changing journey.

Episode Highlights:

• LeeAnne introduces her guest, Taylor Mitchell, and shares how she came across Taylor's story on Instagram.

• Taylor reflects on her health before her journey began, describing herself as a relatively healthy child who rarely visited the doctor.

• At the age of 20, Taylor experienced a sudden health crisis, including nausea, stomach pain, and exhaustion. She recounts a frightening episode where she temporarily lost her vision, which led her to seek medical attention.

• Taylor describes her initial misdiagnosis and struggles with doctors who couldn't pinpoint the cause of her symptoms.

• Over the course of several years, Taylor's health deteriorated, leading her to see specialists for various systems in her body. She was put on multiple medications to manage her symptoms.

• Taylor discusses the emotional toll her health issues took on her, as well as the impact on her college and work life.

• Taylor shares her journey of finding the right medical care, including visiting the Mayo Clinic, where she received a diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic constipation.

• The importance of pelvic floor therapy in Taylor's recovery and how it helped her regain control over her muscles and alleviate incontinence.

• Taylor's decision to undergo a loop ileostomy surgery after years of suffering from chronic constipation and other symptoms.

• How Taylor's Instagram journey began as she sought information and resources for managing her ostomy. She realized there was a lack of education and decided to share her experiences with others.

• The positive impact Taylor's Instagram presence had on people who were struggling with ostomies and gastrointestinal issues. She provided support and advice to those in need.

• Taylor's reflection on the improvements in her overall health and quality of life following her ileostomy surgery.

• Her decision to keep her ileostomy due to unresolved rectal issues and her optimism for the future.

• Taylor's gratitude for the support of her husband, who also has Crohn's disease and an ostomy, and how they've navigated their health journeys together.

 Join us in applauding Taylor Mitchell's incredible resilience and determination in the face of health challenges. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of seeking the right medical care. If you or someone you know is dealing with similar health issues, Taylor's story may provide guidance, hope, and a sense of community. Thank you for tuning in to The Beautiful Bag Podcast. Stay connected for more inspiring stories and conversations.

Please remember to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts and share it with friends and family who may benefit from these uplifting and informative discussions.

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Beautiful Bag Podcast on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
• Visit the website:https://leeannehayden.com/
• Hollister Incorporated Hydration Video  

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options.