The Beautiful Bag

In this episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," LeeAnne is joined by a special guest, Tina, known as "Own Your Crohn's" on Instagram. Tina shares her inspiring and deeply personal journey of living with Crohn's disease and undergoing an ostomy procedure. Her story is one of resilience, breaking cultural stigmas, and finding strength in adversity.

Key Takeaways:

1. Tina's Crohn's Journey: Tina was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis over 17 years ago, and her disease progressed from mild to severe. She faced challenges with limited treatment options and cultural stigma.

2. Biological Therapies: Tina tried various advanced therapies and biologics, but they did not provide relief, leading her to consider surgery.

3. Facing Surgery: At the age of 24, Tina was confronted with the prospect of surgery. She underwent a J pouch surgery, but it didn't work out due to the development of complications related to Crohn's disease.

4. Cultural Stigma: Tina highlights the cultural taboos and stigma associated with ostomies in certain communities. She shares how these stigmas can affect marriage, temple visits, and daily life.

5. Mental Health Challenges: Tina discusses the mental and emotional toll of living with an ostomy and how societal pressures can impact one's self-esteem and mental well-being.

6. Overcoming Stigmas: Tina emphasizes the importance of breaking through these stigmas and advocating for acceptance and inclusion in all communities, regardless of health conditions.

7. Sexual Health: The podcast delves into the topic of how ostomies and fistulas can affect sexual health. Tina and LeeAnne share their personal experiences and offer insights into maintaining a fulfilling sex life.

8. Quality of Life with an Ostomy: Tina shares how her ostomy has improved her quality of life, allowing her to enjoy activities and experiences she couldn't before.

9. Marriage and Acceptance: Tina discusses the complexities of marriage in the context of chronic illness and how open communication is essential for understanding and acceptance within relationships.

Tina's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-acceptance. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has embraced her ostomy and become an advocate for breaking the taboos surrounding ostomies and chronic illnesses.

Connect with Us:

• Link to Hollister Video - How to Manage Emotions 
• Follow "The Beautiful Bag Podcast" on Instagram @thebeautifulbagpodcast.
• Connect with Tina on Instagram @ownyourcrohns.
• Visit Tina's blog and advocacy work for more information on living with Crohn's disease and ostomies.

Introduction:
In this episode, host LeeAnne Hayden is joined by special guest Dr. John Heryer, a colorectal surgeon and an ostomate. Dr. Heryer shares his inspiring journey and insights into living with an ostomy, as well as discussing the topic of hernias and their prevention.

Discussion Highlights:

• Dr. John Heryer's background as a colorectal surgeon and an ostomate.
• The importance of embracing your new life and appreciating good health.
• The challenges and complications related to hernias in ostomates.
• Strategies for preventing hernias, including avoiding abdominal straining and strengthening the abdominal core.
• The significance of pelvic tilts and core-strengthening exercises for post-surgery recovery.
• The unique perspective of a surgeon turned ostomate in understanding the patient experience.
• The use of support belts for added security and comfort.
• Dr. Heryer's personal experience with prednisone and his advice for tapering it gradually to mitigate side effects.
• The value of seeking objective opinions and advice from healthcare professionals.
• Life after ostomy surgery and the pursuit of strength and fitness goals.
• Dr. Heryer's transition to options trading and the flexibility it offers.
• Connecting with Dr. Heryer via email for further questions and potential presentations.

Conclusion: Dr. John Heryer's remarkable journey from being a colorectal surgeon to an ostomate highlights the importance of embracing life's changes and appreciating good health. This episode provides valuable insights into preventing hernias, managing prednisone tapering, and seeking objective advice. Dr. Heryer's positive outlook on life post-surgery serves as an inspiration to all ostomates.

For more information or to contact Dr. John Heryer, please email him at John.Heryer@gmail.com.

Connect with LeeAnne at HERE

Intro (00:06-00:19):

• LeeAnne warmly welcomes the audience to "The Beautiful Bag Podcast."
• The special guest, Allison, is introduced, and the host shares their exciting meeting at the UOAA annual convention.
• Reflecting on the thrill of meeting individuals in person after connecting with them on social media.

Introduction to Allison's Story (00:19-01:55):

• Allison's background in working at the American Cancer Society and her journey with colorectal cancer.
• Being diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 12 and experiencing remission for several years.
• The sudden onset of unusual symptoms leading to a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
• Emphasis on the importance of regular check-ups and colonoscopies.
• Describing the shock and challenges of facing a cancer diagnosis and the need for prompt medical attention.

The Journey Begins (01:55-02:33):

• Allison's life before cancer and her work in cancer research in Houston, Texas.
• Receiving a clean bill of health during a previous colonoscopy.
• The gradual onset of concerning symptoms leading up to the cancer diagnosis.
• Symptoms and Diagnosis (02:33-05:46):
• Allison's experience with changing bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
• The discovery of a blockage and initial uncertainty about the diagnosis.
• The shocking moment when Allison was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
• Seeking multiple surgical opinions and ultimately choosing MD Anderson for treatment.
• The importance of personalized care and finding the right medical team.

Quality of Life with an Ostomy (05:46-07:53):

• Discussion about the misconceptions and fears surrounding ostomies.
• Allison's initial hesitation and her decision to opt for a J-pouch after surgery.
• Reflecting on how she would make different choices if she knew then what she knows now.
• The importance of education and dispelling myths about life with an ostomy.

Overcoming Preconceived Notions (07:53-10:50):

• Addressing common questions people have about living with an ostomy, including eating normal food, wearing regular clothes, and concerns about relationships.
• Alison's personal experiences with dating and relationships after having an ostomy.
• The role of the ostomy community in providing support, sharing stories, and breaking stigmas.
• The positive response to Allison's social media posts about her ostomy.
• Embracing and Naming the Ostomy (10:50-13:18):
• Discussing the significance of naming the ostomy, with Allison sharing the name "Phil."
• Allison's experience of wearing a bikini for the first time and embracing her scars and ostomy.
• The power of community and connecting with like-minded individuals who understand.
• The growth and support Allison received through social media.

Advocacy and Community Engagement (13:18-15:47):

• Allison's advocacy work, including volunteering with cancer support programs and ostomy associations.
• The importance of mentoring and supporting individuals considering or living with an ostomy.
• The impact of sharing personal stories and experiences to help others.
• Encouraging people to live life to the fullest and not let fear of an ostomy hold them back.

The Top Three Questions (15:47-End):

• The most common questions Allison receives about ostomies: eating normal food, wearing regular clothes, and concerns about relationships.
• The role of education and dispelling misconceptions about life with an ostomy.
• The importance of living life fully and not letting an ostomy prevent someone from enjoying life.

Podcast Outro:

• The host expresses gratitude to Allison for sharing her inspiring story and valuable insights.
• Encourages listeners to connect with Allison on social media and stay tuned for more episodes of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast."

Resource Links:

• Allison's TikTok
• Allison's Instagram

Closing Message from Allison:

"An ostomy is not the end of your life; it is just the beginning of your life."

Join LeeAnne Hayden and special guest Meghan Brown for an inspiring and informative episode of "The Beautiful Bag." In this conversation, they explore their journeys living with ostomy bags, discuss the challenges they've overcome, and share valuable insights on topics like pregnancy with an ostomy and the power of a positive mindset.

Segment 1: Meghan's Crohn's Journey

• [00:00] Intro: LeeAnne Hayden introduces Meghan Brown, sharing their mutual admiration for each other.

• [02:37] Meghan's Crohn's Diagnosis: Meghan's journey with Crohn's disease began at a young age when she was diagnosed at 13. She endured a year of misdiagnosis and the struggles of managing her health while navigating high school.

• [04:15] Remission and High School: After starting Remicade, Meghan experienced significant improvements in her health. However, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a teenager dealing with steroids and rumors about her absence from school.

• [07:27] College and Recurrence: Meghan's life took a positive turn when she met her husband, but her sophomore year of college marked a recurrence of her illness. She explored various treatments, including Remicade, but encountered complications.

• [08:42] Decision for Surgery: A routine colonoscopy revealed precancerous signs, leading Meghan to make a challenging decision. She discusses the emotional and mental aspects of choosing to undergo surgery and embracing an ostomy bag to eliminate the risk of cancer.

• [09:37] Mental Health and Support: Meghan emphasizes the role of mental health throughout her journey and the importance of her parents' unwavering support. She shares how her family's positive outlook helped her during difficult times.

Segment 2: Overcoming Challenges and Acceptance

• [13:10] Balancing Vanity and Health: Meghan and LeeAnne discuss the difficult decision they faced regarding surgery and ostomy bags. Both admit to struggling with the idea of having an ostomy bag due to aesthetic concerns.

• [16:06] Perspective Shift: Meghan reflects on the moment her perspective shifted during a conversation with her surgeon. He highlighted the importance of considering her future as a young mom and how her decision would impact her loved ones.

• [20:09] Privacy vs. Openness: LeeAnne and Meghan discuss the balance between privacy and openness regarding their ostomy bags. Meghan commends LeeAnne for being open on social media and showing her ostomy bag.

• [22:15] Meghan's Social Media Journey: Meghan shares her reasons for joining social media after her surgery and how sharing her journey helped her heal, find acceptance, and connect with others facing similar challenges.

• [24:06] Embracing Acceptance: Meghan describes her social media journey as a healing process that allowed her to accept her body and gain body confidence. LeeAnne shares her own experience with healing through acceptance.

Segment 3: Pregnancy with an Ostomy and Self-Advocacy

• [28:11] Hidden Community: LeeAnne and Meghan highlight the curiosity and lack of awareness surrounding ostomies and the need for more visibility.

• [29:53] Pregnancy and Ostomy: Meghan shares her remarkable journey of having two healthy pregnancies with an ostomy. She emphasizes the need for more information and awareness around pregnancy with an ostomy.

• [35:03] Postpartum Challenges: Meghan discusses postpartum challenges related to her skin's reaction to ostomy products after childbirth and the importance of self-advocacy during life-changing events like pregnancy.

• [38:01] Self-Advocacy: LeeAnne and Meghan underscore the significance of self-advocacy, particularly for individuals with ostomies facing pregnancy. They stress the importance of open communication with healthcare professionals.

• [43:31] Mindset and Positivity: Meghan emphasizes the power of a positive mindset in coping with challenges and shares her personal journey of transforming her outlook.

Segment 4: Embracing Life and Conclusion

• [46:06] Embracing Life: LeeAnne and Meghan discuss the importance of embracing life, even in the face of challenges. They acknowledge the value of returning to a positive perspective after moments of sadness and frustration.

• [46:55] Outro: LeeAnne Hayden expresses gratitude to Meghan Brown for sharing her experiences and insights on the podcast. She invites listeners to stay tuned for more episodes of "The Beautiful Bag" and the valuable stories and discussions it brings to light.

Connect with Meghan & LeeAnne on Instagram 

Connect with LeeAnne on Website 

Introduction:

• LeeAnne introduces the episode and mentions the recent UOAA conference attended by this group of seven ostomates.
• The host highlights the positive experience and the camaraderie they shared 

Guest Introductions:

• Jearlean Taylor, Angie Davenport, Keyla Caba, Kimberly Coleman, Rob Harrison and Janeca Werts  are introduced as the podcast guests.

Discussion:

• LeeAnneand guests discuss their takeaways from the UOAA conference.
• Jeneca talks about her first-time experience, emphasizing the overwhelming positivity and unity among the ostomates.
• Angie shares her delight in meeting fellow ostomates in person, bonding with LeeAnne (the host) and Kimberly, and the sense of unity they felt.
• Kayla mentions the connections they made, the valuable lessons learned in the ileostomy class, and the diversity of attendees.
• Kimberly speaks about her second time attending the convention and how it provided a different perspective as an ostomate of almost eight years.
• Rob, the only male attendee, talks about the inspiration and love he felt from everyone and how it motivates him to stay positive.
• Jearlean talks about this being only her second time attending the event, speaking at it and how she loved how we all came together.  

The group also deleves deep into the sessions that they attended and the lessons that they all learned during the 3 days.   

Conclusion:

• The podcast concludes with a sense of unity and gratitude for the convention's positive impact.

www.ostomy.org

Introduction:

• Host: LeeAnne Hayden
• Guest: Stephanie Brenner

[00:00] Introduction:

• LeeAnne introduces the podcast and the guest, Stephanie Brenner.
• LeeAnne and Stephanie met at an ostomy convention.
• Stephanie's journey with chronic illness and surgeries is an inspiration to others.

[0:41] Welcome Stephanie to the Podcast:

• LeeAnne welcomes Stephanie to the podcast.
• Stephanie expresses her gratitude for being on the show.

[1:18] Stephanie's Journey with Chronic Illness:

• Stephanie shares her story, starting with her diagnosis of Crohn's disease in 2001 during high school.
• She quickly received a diagnosis and tried various medications, including steroids and Remicade.
• Stephanie discusses her journey through three surgeries: subtotal colectomy, J-pouch creation, and J-pouch closure.
• She talks about her challenges during college and how she learned to manage her condition.

[5:10] Living Life Despite Chronic Illness:

• Stephanie reflects on her determination to live life to the fullest despite her condition.
• She shares her experiences of traveling and studying abroad, even when advised against it by doctors.
• Stephanie highlights the importance of making the most of life's opportunities.

[11:18] Embracing Life with a Permanent Ostomy:

• Stephanie discusses her decision to undergo a permanent ostomy in 2018 after her J-pouch surgeries.
• She emphasizes the positive impact it had on her quality of life.
• Stephanie also talks about her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy in 2019.
• She acknowledges the resilience and adaptability required to navigate these challenges.

[14:34] Overcoming Hesitations and Fears:

• Stephanie shares her initial hesitation and fears about undergoing surgeries.
• She talks about the anticipatory anxiety and the mental struggle to make the decision.
• Stephanie encourages others to find ways to cope with the anxiety and fear surrounding surgeries.

[16:50] Mental Health and Chronic Illness:

• LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the importance of mental health when living with chronic illness.
• Stephanie highlights the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and trauma among individuals with chronic illnesses.
• She explains how these conditions manifest and affect patients' daily lives.

[20:05] Coping Strategies for Mental Health:

• Stephanie discusses various coping strategies for managing mental health, including psychoeducation.
• She emphasizes the significance of connecting with one's body and exploring sensations.
• Stephanie encourages grounding exercises, joyful movement, breathwork, and sensory support.
• She mentions referring patients to somatic therapists and EMDR specialists for trauma-related issues.
• Stephanie promotes self-compassion and self-care.

[24:05] Connecting with the Body:

• LeeAnne shares her experience with somatic therapy and connecting with her body.
• Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's protective mechanisms.
• She encourages the use of pronouns to personalize the body's needs and feelings.
• Stephanie suggests practicing self-compassion and treating oneself as a caring guardian.

[26:07] Conclusion:

• LeeAnne and Stephanie discuss the ongoing journey of self-love and self-acceptance.
• Stephanie reminds everyone that navigating life with a chronic illness is a collective journey.
• LeeAnne thanks Stephanie for sharing her inspiring story and insights.

Find Stephanie:

https://chronicillnesspsychotherapy.com

Rome Foundation
https://romegipsych.org

In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden introduces somatic coach Keri Ford, who specializes in helping women unlock their full potential and reconnect with their authentic selves through somatic work. The discussion explores the concept of somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and the mind-body connection. Listeners are guided through a somatic check-in exercise, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and tuning into their bodies to foster healing and self-discovery. The conversation delves into various types of trauma, the impact of unresolved experiences on the body, and how somatic work can lead to transformation and personal growth. Keri and LeeAnne also explore the balance between contentment and progression, offering insights into aligning mind and body for holistic well-being. The episode concludes with a reminder of the body's resilience and the power of self-healing through the mind-body connection.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to somatic coach Keri Ford and her work in helping women unlock their potential.
• Explanation of somatic work, nervous system regulation, and the mind-body connection.
• Guided somatic check-in exercise to help listeners connect with their bodies and become more aware of their sensations.
• Exploration of different types of trauma and their impact on the body.
• Discussion of the importance of slowing down, listening to the body, and making new choices for healing.
• Balancing contentment with personal growth and embracing both acceptance and expansion.
• Mention of Dr. Joe Dispenza's work on self-healing through the power of the mind.

Guest: Keri Ford, Somatic Coach

Host: LeeAnne Hayden

Links:

• Elevate with Keri Website
• Keri on Instagram
• Keri on Facebook
• LeeAnne's Website 
• LeeAnne on Instagram 
• LeeAnne on Facebook 

Note: The information provided in this episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Listeners are advised to consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance and support.

Introduction:

• LeeAnne introduces the episode and the overarching theme of confidence and self-discovery.
• Briefly mentions her participation in the "Own Your Future" challenge and the insights gained.

Segment 1: The Resonating Question (0:57)

• Discusses Jay Shetty's observation about Google search suggestions reflecting common insecurities.
• Explores the significance of the question "Will I ever be enough?" and its impact on self-esteem.

Segment 2: Battling Imposter Syndrome (4:12)

• LeeAnne shares personal experiences of imposter syndrome as a podcast host.
• Highlights the universal nature of imposter syndrome and its prevalence even among accomplished individuals.

Segment 3: Strategies for Confidence Building (8:28)

• Explores practical strategies to combat self-doubt and nurture lasting confidence.
• Emphasizes the importance of daily affirmations, challenging negative thoughts, and reframing perspectives.

Segment 4: The Impact of Sharing (12:40)

• Discusses the power of sharing stories and embracing vulnerability.
• Highlights how stepping out of comfort zones empowers individuals and inspires others on similar journeys.

Segment 5: Your Path to Empowerment (16:03)

• Invites listeners to take action by tuning into the episode and accessing the free Confidence Guide.
• Encourages engagement and connection through social media, emphasizing the creation of a supportive community.

Conclusion:

• LeeAnne wraps up the episode, expressing gratitude for the podcast community and the journey of empowerment.
• Teases the upcoming episode on self-awareness and its role in personal growth.

Links:

FREE CONFIDENCE GUIDE

INSTAGRAM

Introduction:

• Welcome to the Beautiful Bag Podcast with host LeeAnne Hayden.
• Today's episode: Navigating intimate relationships and dating with an ostomy.
• LeeAnne's 16th wedding anniversary and reflections on her journey.
• Preview of upcoming episode featuring her husband's perspective.
• Goal: Share insights and experiences to guide those facing similar challenges.

Embrace Yourself and Be Confident:

• Importance of self-love and acceptance.
• Your ostomy doesn't define your worth or ability to love and be loved.
• Cultivate confidence and self-assurance; they are attractive qualities.
• Embrace your uniqueness and share your journey openly when comfortable.
• Advice for dating: Be confident, embrace yourself, and be open about your ostomy.
• Choose supportive partners who appreciate and value you.

Honest Communication is Key:

• Honesty as the foundation of strong relationships.
• Importance of open communication and vulnerability.
• For those dating: Have a sincere conversation about your ostomy when the time feels right.
• Encouragement to surround yourself with empathetic and understanding individuals.
• For married couples: Continue sharing feelings and experiences related to your ostomy.
• Building trust and understanding within the relationship.

Intimacy and Ostomy:

• Intimacy is vital in romantic relationships.
• For dating: Physical intimacy may require open communication and experimentation.
• Take time to explore and find what works best for both partners.
• Advice for married couples: Continue exploring intimacy and deepening your connection.
• Emphasize the importance of open communication and understanding.

Conclusion:

• Recap of key points: Embrace yourself, communicate honestly, and nurture intimacy.
• Your ostomy doesn't hinder your ability to have a loving relationship.
• Encouragement to cherish and love yourself.
• Upcoming event: UOAA conference in Houston, Texas. LeeAnne will be at the Hollister booth.
• Reach out and share your experiences, and remember, love knows no boundaries, ostomies or not.

Journey of Strength and Resilience:

• LeeAnne reflects on the incredible stories shared on the podcast.
• Highlights the diversity of guests who have faced challenges with strength and resilience.
• Acknowledges her own journey with an ostomy due to a rare sarcoma tumor.
• Expresses gratitude for the vulnerability and courage displayed by guests, inspiring listeners to embrace their own strength.

Breaking Stereotypes and Changing Perspectives:

• Discusses how the podcast has shattered stereotypes associated with ostomies.
• Emphasizes that ostomies can affect individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
• Explores how guests have defied societal norms and pursued their dreams despite ostomy surgeries.
• Encourages listeners to see beyond preconceived notions and embrace the diversity within the ostomy community.

Inspiring Stories of Triumph:

• Highlights specific guests who have triumphed over adversity.
• Shares the story of Colin Jarvis, a former Olympic runner who overcame ostomy surgeries to become a marathon runner and co-owner of Stealth Belts.
• Shares the story of Jerilyn Taylor, who has lived with a dual ostomy since childhood and became a model, challenging societal stigmas.
• Expresses admiration for the many other inspiring individuals who have shared their stories on the podcast.

Support, Connection, and a Growing Community:

• Acknowledges the power of community formed through The Beautiful Bag Podcast.
• Expresses gratitude for the support and connections made with listeners and guests.
• Highlights the partnership with Hollister, Inc., a leading ostomy care company, in spreading awareness and supporting the podcast's mission.

A Beautiful Bag: A Second Chance at Life:

• Explains the significance of the podcast's name, "The Beautiful Bag."
• Discusses how the ostomy bag represents a second chance at life for many individuals.
• Emphasizes the gratitude for this second chance and the reminder that not everyone gets this opportunity.
• Encourages listeners to recognize they are not alone and that a supportive community exists.

Conclusion:

• Expresses heartfelt gratitude to listeners for their continued support.
• Encourages sharing stories and spreading awareness to make a difference in the lives of individuals with ostomies.
• Invites listeners to reach out and share their own stories for future episodes.
• Provides contact information and website details for submission of stories: Reach out to LeeAnne Hayden at leeannehayden.com or on Instagram @leeannehayden.
• Expresses excitement for future episodes and the growth of The Beautiful Bag Podcast.

Note: Timestamps and guest names mentioned in the show can be found in the podcast episode for reference.

In this episode of The Beautiful Bag, join host LeeAnne as she engages in a heartfelt conversation with the incredible Kayla Glumac. They explore the journey of self-acceptance and empowerment, highlighting Kayla's inspiring story and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Kayla opens up about her experience living with an ostomy bag and how she embraced her unique circumstances with resilience and courage. She shares the challenges she faced and the transformative power of self-love and body positivity. Prepare to be inspired as Kayla's authenticity and vulnerability shine through every word.

Don't miss this empowering episode, filled with valuable insights and a renewed perspective on self-acceptance. Tune in now to listen to the full conversation on or visit LeeAnne's website for more information.

Connect with LeeAnne: 🌐 Website: leeannehayden.com 📷 Instagram: @leeannehayden

Connect with Kayla: 📷 Instagram: @kayla.glumac

Welcome to another fabulous episode of The Beautiful Bag Podcast with your host, LeeAnne Hayden. In this empowering episode, we dive into the impact of ostomy on body image and strategies for self-acceptance. Let's redefine beauty together!

Ostomy surgery saves lives but brings changes that affect self-image. Society's narrow beauty standards don't reflect our diverse human experience. Ostomy challenges norms, presenting an opportunity to redefine beauty.

Strategies for self-acceptance:

1. Knowledge is power: Learn about your condition, surgical procedure, and ostomy equipment. Visit www.leeannehayden.com for resources.
2. Seek support: Connect with support groups and online communities. Reach out to Leanne on Instagram (@leeannehayden), Facebook (@leeannehayden07), or LinkedIn (@leeannehayden).
3. Surround yourself with positive influences: Challenge societal standards, celebrate diversity, and share your story. Your voice matters!

Remember, your ostomy doesn't define you. Embrace your challenges, passions, and the beautiful person you are beyond your physical appearance. Self-acceptance is an ongoing adventure. Join the Beautiful Bag community, download the free confidence guide at www.leeannehayden.com, and rock your beautiful bag with pride.

In this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, we are joined by Jacqueline, a talented ice skater who has overcome the challenges of living with Crohn's disease. Jacqueline shares her inspiring journey and how she continues to pursue her passion for ice skating despite her health condition.

Episode Highlights:

1. Living with Crohn's Disease: Jacqueline reveals that she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 15, and her mother also has the same condition. With half her life spent battling the disease, she emphasizes the importance of spreading awareness and breaking stigmas associated with Crohn's disease.

2. Trial and Error: Jacqueline discusses the challenges of finding the right medications to manage her Crohn's disease. She shares her experience of trying various treatments and going through different medications, including biologics, to achieve remission.

3. Making the Decision for Surgery: After years of managing her condition with medication, Jacqueline faced a severe flare in 2020. Fearing the potential loss of her colon, she made the difficult decision to undergo surgery to disconnect her small intestine from her colon. Despite the surgeon's warning of a low success rate, Jacqueline remained determined to save her colon.

4. Embracing Life with an Ostomy: Jacqueline reflects on her post-surgery life with an ileostomy bag. Initially concerned about how her life as an athlete, particularly as a professional ice skater, would be affected, she discovered a Facebook group dedicated to ostomy lifestyle athletes. Witnessing the accomplishments of fellow athletes with ostomies, she realized that her passion for ice skating would not be hindered.

5. Returning to the Ice: Jacqueline shares her joy of returning to the ice after her surgeries. She highlights how, while performing, she feels completely in her element, and her ostomy bag becomes inconspicuous. Her dedication to skating and her ability to overcome obstacles have remained unwavering.

6. A Special Call from Michelle Kwan: Jacqueline recounts a remarkable moment in her journey when Michelle Kwan, an iconic figure skater, called her during a challenging time. Michelle offered words of encouragement, assuring Jacqueline that she would be able to come back from her illness just as she had overcome injuries during her own career. This phone call served as a tremendous inspiration for Jacqueline.

Jacqueline's story serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals living with Crohn's disease. Despite the obstacles she has faced, she continues to pursue her passion for ice skating and inspire others with her unwavering spirit. Her journey reminds us that with the right mindset and support, we can overcome any challenge and live a fulfilling life.

Thank you for joining this episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of individuals who triumph over adversity. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Until next time! 

This weeks  podcast episode is about how to feel confident and manage an ostomy bag while at the beach during the summer.

In this solo episode I provide five tips for feeling confident and comfortable, including

• choosing the right swimsuit
• using a waterproof ostomy bag cover
• packing extra supplies
• being prepared for bathroom breaks

The most important this is the importance of practicing self-love and confidence when dealing with an ostomy bag and encourages listeners to embrace their ostomy and not let it hold them back from enjoying the beach and other activities they love.

Connect with LeeAnne on her website https://leeannehayden.com/  or on Social  Instagram, Facebook.

Siil Ostomy Swimwear

That Girl with The Bag Ostomy Covers

In this podcast episode, LeeAnne shares a personal story about an embarrassing incident that happened to her while driving home from an MRI appointment in New York City. She had an ostomy bag and was wearing tight leggings that caused stool to come out of her stoma. Suddenly, the bag unsnapped and a piece of solid stool flew out, causing her mother to scream and her son to ask what was going on. The host emphasizes that incidents like this can happen to anyone with an ostomy, and that it's important to react with humor and not feel alone.

Connect with LeeAnne at www.leeannehayden.com or on Instagram @leeannehayden

In this podcast episode, LeeAnne Hayden, host of the Beautiful Bag Podcast, shares her personal story of breast implant illness and her decision to have her implants removed.

She discusses her symptoms and the difficulty of coming to terms with the reality of breast implant illness.

LeeAnne emphasizes the importance of finding a plastic surgeon who is highly recommended in the removal of implants and total capsulectomy. 

She underwent the surgery just four days prior to recording the episode and already feels amazing.

LeeAnne encourages listeners to educate themselves about breast implant illness and take action for their own wellbeing.

Connect with LeeAnne on her website https://leeannehayden.com/  or on Social  Instagram, Facebook.

In this episode of "The Beautiful Bag" podcast, host LeeAnne Hayden interviews LaTesha Harrison, a Crohn's disease advocate, about her journey with the disease. LaTesha shares her experience with an ostomy since the age of 14 and the lack of education and information about Crohn's disease, especially for people of color. The speakers also discuss their previous work with Hollister and how they finally connected after 18 months. Letisha talks about her traumatic experiences and how she has learned to cope with them. The conversation ends with a message of self-advocacy and self-love, urging listeners to be their own best friend and not settle for anything subpar, especially when it comes to their health.

Connect with LaTesha on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/queeningwithcrohns/

Connect with LeeAnne at https://leeannehayden.com , Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/ or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/leeannehayden07/

In this podcast episode, LeeAnne Hayden, host of The Beautiful Bag podcast, discusses the importance of finding support in the ostomy community.

She shares her experience of attending a charity event for the IBD community, organized by an ostomate named Keyla, and emphasizes the importance of community in understanding and supporting each other through the challenges of living with an ostomy.

LeeAnne also talks about her own journey of finding a community and encourages listeners to seek out a community and not feel alone in their journey. She offers herself as a resource and mentions upcoming events where ostomy patients can gather and support each other.

Connect with LeeAnne:

• On Website https://leeannehayden.com 
• On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leeannehayden/
• On FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/leeannehayden07/

Other places to connect with other Ostomates

• https://www.ostomy.org
• Hollister Secure Start

In this podcast episode your host, LeeAnne Hayden, a certified gut health specialist, discusses the importance of gut health and how to feed the gut microbiome. She emphasizes the benefits of organic foods and introduces a new product called Vitalite, which contains 72 trace minerals, enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, greens and fruits. LeeAnne reminds listeners that while supplements and products can improve the body, it is essential to prioritize getting the right nutrients through organic foods. She concludes by encouraging listeners to take care of their bodies and reach out to her for community support.

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Check out Vitalite for yourself Vitalite