I'm Alannah-Jayne and I had emergency surgery for an ileostomy due to Inflammatory Bowel Disease causing sepsis in my large bowel in 2015 after a lengthy time in hospital and many failed medications and steroids not controlling the diseased large bowel. My surgery was originally planned but turned into an emergency situation due to the sepsis. I'm 28 and Scottish, living in the highlands of Scotland which I adore!! I'm a mum of one little boy which was always my absolute dream and never thought would ever happen for me as previously, I had problems carrying pregnancies and was told I wouldn't have children so he is an absolute miracle.
How did you feel before having stoma surgery?
Absolutely terrified and excited at the same time and fear of the unknown. I also wondered how was I going to navigate life normally again as a 20 year old woman and would I ever find love?
How do you feel now after stoma surgery?
I'm so glad I did it but really wish I had went for it the first time it was offered to me just one year after diagnosis. So maybe guilt for not having taken it when offered back then and frustration due to how it could have improved my life years before.
Tell us about your hobbies. Any new ones since surgery?
I love gaming, playing and exploring outdoors with my son, making and painting things and blogging. Most of which I started after surgery. I also love cooking and baking (but I require help). I love doing arts and crafts too!
What do you know now that you wish you knew before having surgery?
Stoma surgery saves lives and it isn't as scary as I first thought! It gives SO much more quality of life. I know that from having my stoma, I can live life as normal and navigate life as usual! I can be me, feel confident, find love, have a family and just enjoy the world.
What are your favourite stoma products from Convatec?
The ESENTA range (both sprays and wipes) and the stoma powder! I've been using the powder for years but my absolute favourite of them all is the skin barrier spray, it has worked wonders on my skin which used to break down so easily due to Bile Salt Malabsorption prior to using it!