Wait… now what?
You have had your ostomy surgery and recovered to the point of going home – congratulations! Now it is time for “The Transition Process.” It is now time to heal, recover and get to know your stoma, how to care for it, and how to care for yourself!
Stepping back into your home is the best feeling. No more hospital sounds, interruptions or food. You can begin to explore what your new “new” is.
When my father came home, we had this urge to re-create the clinical setting at home. Try not to do this, your home should always be a place filled with people and things that are familiar and comforting. Yes, there are some adjustments, but minimize the impact.
First and most important, keep your bedroom your sanctuary of peace, calm and rest. It is the most intimate part of your home, keep it that way.
quick tips - Organization
- Store all ostomy products in another area of the house such as a linen closet, extra bedroom or bathroom.
- Take the supplies out of the boxes and create an organized storage system.
- Have items clearly marked and easily accessible.
- Based on your needs, at times the number of products you receive can be overwhelming. Being organized and in control will keep you from getting overloaded with unnecessary items.
- Keep it easy, keep it clean. There are some very helpful videos with organizing tips on YouTube.
HANDY DONATION BOX
Keep a donation box handy for products you don’t use. Try not to tell yourself “I might need it” or “I’ll keep it just in case.” You will be surprised how quickly products can stack up and take over. If you don’t use it in 3 months, toss it in the donation box.
There are many ostomy pantries which help ostomates around the country that will gladly take your supplies. Here are a few of them:
- Local Hospitals
- Local Support Groups
- Ostomy 2-1-1
- Kindred Box
Takeaway
Remember, this is the time to Keep It Simple. Don’t overwhelm yourself unnecessarily. It is important to maintain your way of life. Take walks, invite friends over, make lunch dates. Life doesn’t stop because you have a stoma. If anything, it is paving the way to a healthier way of life!
