life of an ostomate

[makfej]

When ostomy care was hard to find, Jeff Kamm reached out to an online community for help

From life-saving operations to life-changing connections.

[makfej]

Not all birth defects are noticeable but have a lifetime of issues.

[makfej]

Since my bladder was removed before I was out of diapers, I enjoy asking “normal” people what it feels like to need to pee. I get some of the strangest looks 🤨

[makfej]

https://www.facebook.com/273501053047988/posts/558386574559433/

[makfej]

When I was a child the X-ray tech hands my mother a protective apron. I ask what’s that for. Tech’s response to protect her from X-rays. Me don’t I get something? Tech now standing behind a shield no they’re harmless.

[makfej]

[makfej]

Good morning!

[makfej]

Twice I had my hips and pelvic bones broke and reset. #bladderexstrophy #urostomy

[makfej]

Day two compared to day 14 of #bellspalsy Getting some movement back. My eye will close but not tight. Slowly but surely on the mend.

[makfej]

What can you do with an ostomy?

[makfej]

Here are some types of urostomy

[makfej]

Just for one day I would like to have a normal body. No pain. No urostomy. No mutilated parts.

[makfej]

[makfej]

[makfej]

I had to have a ultrasound of my kidneys today. I walk into the room and going through the verification with the tech she says “ we are checking the kidneys and bladder today right?” I said kidneys yes bladder no I had it removed. She tried to check it anyway 🤦‍♂️

[makfej]

#ostomyawarenessday

As World Ostomy day comes to an end, how many knew it was today? How many know what an ostomy is? An ostomy is a diversion of the bowels or urinary system. Some are temporary, some are permanent, all are life saving. People with an ostomy lead normal lives. I hope someone may learn something from this.

[makfej]

On this day in 1973, a 2 and half year old was wheeled into the operating room once again. This time it was to have his non working bladder removed and be given a urostomy. While not his first surgery, and far from his last, one can only imagine what was going through his parents mind. Hours of surgery turned to weeks in the hospital. Being released to return later for revisions. Jump ahead to the present. The boy has grown up. Still alive and kicking. Most people would never know the troubles the young boy survived. Without my ostomy I am sure i wouldn't be here. Never give up.