Triumph Over Adversity: Crystal's Journey as a Double Ostomate
- 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.