Hand in Hand Issue 30

HandinHand Real stories

Real advice

Ember

e will always teach W Ember that her scar tells a story of how amazingly brave and strong she is.”

Natalie & Ember’s story

INSIDE: 5 Common questions asked by parents Buttony Bear Yoga for ostomates Introducing CliniSure Annette’s Triathlon Triumph

Issue 30

Dear Reader, A very warm welcome to the latest edition of Hand in Hand, the first of 2022.

I can’t quite believe another year has gone by and what has happened in that time, this time last year I can remember saying “don’t worry, this time next year we’ll all be back to normal” well little did I know!

However, we have been able to adapt to the unprecedented conditions as individuals and as a business. I believe we have come through it well and have shown resilience when facing the challenges we have. At SecuriCare we have tried hard to ensure we continue to be there for you whilst making sure our team were safe too and are stronger and fitter for it.

Well-being and fitness are a feature in this edition of the magazine and demonstrate the need to be prepared for whatever is thrown at us and I hope the information shared is of benefit to you all.

I’m sure there are several of you reading this who made new year resolutions to get fit, and I wonder how many of those resolutions have been maintained?!

In addition, I am sure you will be very interested to read the articles about Stoma care in babies, a topic not often discussed but one that deserves to be more. I am particularly grateful to the families that have contributed to that element of the magazine.

If anyone has ideas for other topics to be included in future magazines, I am sure our new editor Shpresa, would be delighted to receive them.

In closing I would like to thank everyone for their contributions to the magazine and our team here for producing it.

I hope 2022 is a positive one for us all and I look forward to welcoming you to future editions of Hand in Hand shortly.

Happy reading!

Neil Freeman, Managing Director, SecuriCare (Medical) Ltd and CliniMed Ltd

2

Welcome

Issue 30

HandinHand

Contents Cover story “We will always teach Ember that her scar tells a story of how amazingly brave and strong she is.”

4 5 Common questions asked by parents

M RE THAN A BEAR

10

Buttony has a stoma too!

Buttony Bear

16 Introducing CliniSure 18 Annette’s Triathlon Triumph 22 Yoga for ostomates

12 Published by SecuriCare (Medical) rg.uk Ltd. Compass House, Knaves Beech Way, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 9QY. nybear.o .buttoE: T. 01628 850100 editor@securicaremedical.co.uk www Editor: Shpresa Cakaj

Design: www.cherrythinking.com

Supporting children and Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this issue.

Print: www.classicprinters.eu

young people with We a stoma Accuracy of information. take care to ensure that all information available in this magazine about our business, services and any products mentioned is accurate. However, these are continually developing and occasionally the information may be out of date. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without prior permission is strictly prohibited. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling Hand in Hand magazine to ensure that this is correct at the time of going to press, SecuriCare (Medical) Ltd. and CliniMed Group assume no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions.

Registered Charity

HandinHand

Issue 30

Contents

3

e i l a t Na r e b m &E

November 2020, we were living in a strange world, amidst a global pandemic and my partner Ryan and I found out that we were pregnant! We were so excited, we immediately started to plan for baby’s arrival in July 2021 and lockdown was a great excuse to spend our time shopping online for everything our little one would need.

May 2021, I was in the first day of my 3rd trimester and started to have contractions, I was admitted to the labour ward, scared and entering the unknown world of having a premature baby. Doctors informed me we would need to deliver baby immediately as my placenta had erupted and with that I was rushed off to theatre for a caesarean.

I was overwhelmed with a feeling of “this isn’t how it was supposed to be!”

Our darling girl Ember was born, and I vaguely remember the nurse coming to me and saying, “I’ll be looking after your baby and will be taking her straight to the Neonatal ward”.

We were suddenly thrown into a world of emotions we did not know existed. Our baby girl was rushed off with monitors and breathing equipment attached, and she was placed into an incubator that imitated the womb. We didn’t get a chance

4

Parent & Baby Series

to see her and when we did, it was simply a photo a midwife had taken of our daughter.

Ryan was able to meet Ember shortly after her birth, while I had to wait for 7 painstaking hours in recovery until I was able to see her. Ryan and I were both in shock, we spent all day, every day by Ember’s side.

Day 10 in the Neonatal ward and Ember was diagnosed with Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), a common illness in ‘premmie’ babies. Sadly, Ember became very unwell, and we were told that she had been diagnosed with Sepsis. The amazing team at Northampton General Hospital (NGH) looked after Ember incredibly well and she recovered with a course of antibiotics.

Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious illness in which tissues in the intestine (gut) become inflamed and start to die. This can lead to a

perforation (hole) developing, which allows the contents of the intestine to leak into the abdomen (tummy). This can cause a very dangerous infection (www.gosh.nhs.uk/ conditions-and-treatments/ conditions-we-treat/ necrotising-enterocolitis/) Week 5, Ember was still in hospital, and we received a dreaded ‘No caller ID’ phone call while Ryan and I were both at home. The feeling of worry and dread was intense.

Ember’s consultant informed us that Ember had become very poorly overnight, and we needed to get to the hospital immediately. When we arrived, Ember’s stomach was severely swollen, almost translucent, she was swollen all over and unresponsive to our voices. The consultant had already arranged a transfer to Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) as he was sure the NEC had returned.

Issue 30

HandinHand

In September 2021, we were called into the hospital and given the news that Ember’s stoma could be reversed.

We decided to go ahead and thankfully the whole procedure went really well and Ember had recovered amazingly. We’re now able to enjoy cuddles and baths and relaxing together as a family.

We arrived at Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) to what I can only describe as a space-age mind-blowing ward with bays of poorly babies, beeping monitors and a sea of parent’s faces, all with the look of worry and distress. We soon realised we were not alone, and these other parents were sharing our same feelings.

The surgeons arrived just as Ember was settling into her new incubator and assured us that they work 24-7 and would be monitoring her very closely, and that they did.

48 hours later and the surgeon informed us that they were taking Ember down for surgery and of the three possible outcomes from the surgery, the stoma was the most likely. We didn’t really have any time to absorb what was said, we just wanted her better and they needed to do what they could to save her.

A few hours later, the surgeon spoke to us and told us what they had found. Ember had a perforation in her intestines as well as a blockage in her bowel, which meant her intestines were about to burst. The surgeon removed 5cm of intestine and brought the two ends out onto the stomach, ready for a stoma bag to be fitted later that day.

We were so ready to see our little girl. A lovely nurse brought Ember round to us in her incubator and carefully showed

HandinHand

Issue 30

us the stoma and explained how it worked. We will never forget the wonderful nurse, her kindness and patience made it easier for us to process what was happening.

We had so many new things to learn; how to change and bathe her with a stoma bag, avoiding tummy time and adjusting to being a parent in a different way than we first thought.

Without the surgery, we could have lost Ember and we will be forever grateful to the amazing NHS staff, doctors, nurses and surgeons at the hospitals for taking care of our daughter.

We were introduced to our assigned Stoma Care Nurse, Michelle from SecuriCare, at LRI and she was incredible. Michelle constantly reassured us that we could handle anything that was thrown our way, we had one-onone lessons in changing Ember’s bag and we learnt all the tools and products needed to make the process as quick, easy and painless as possible for Ember.

Week 10 and Ember was still in hospital. We were transferred back to Northampton General Hospital where we spent a further 4 weeks until they allowed us to finally go home.

We had great after care with Michelle coming for home visits once we returned home and SecuriCare calling to check in on Ember and make sure we had all the supplies she needed.

Ember has been so amazing through this whole process, she’s been happy and not phased one bit, this is her story and who she is. The smile on her face got Ryan and I through every day and nothing else mattered to us other than her happiness and the ability for her to live life to the fullest.

I will never forget how scared Ryan and I were. The unknown, the constant questions of, why us? But talking to other parents on the ward, going through the same thing helped immensely.

“We are thankful for the role that Ember’s stoma had in keeping her alive. In the end, Ember had the option to have her stoma reversed and we only experienced 4 months of living with a stoma.”

We are thankful for the role that Ember’s stoma had in keeping her alive. In the end, Ember had the option to have her stoma reversed and we only experienced 4 months of living with a stoma.

This whole experience has really taught us that things don’t always go to plan, but we’re so blessed to be as lucky as we have been.

We will always teach Ember that her scar tells a story of how amazingly brave and strong she is. We’re so thankful and grateful to the NHS for keeping our baby girl safe and for their support while we battled with a difficult time in our lives.

Parent & Baby Series

5

e b e o h P & Sam, Olivia I found out I was pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic. I was absolutely over the moon!

After celebrating with my husband, Roger, it suddenly dawned on us that due to COVID, it was likely that I would be attending quite a lot of my appointments alone.

We decided to book in for a 10-week scan at a private clinic so that Roger could come along and sit in on the ultrasound.

We arrived at the clinic, and I couldn’t hold in my excitement!

We went in for the scan, minutes seemed like hours as we waited for the sonographer to let us know everything was ok. The silence broke when I asked if we had anything to worry about, the answer... ‘Everything’s fine, but I’d like to do an internal scan if you’re happy to’.

The internal scan began and within seconds the sonographer began to smile, ‘Just as I thought, you have two babies, I’m seeing four hands and four feet!” I laughed in total disbelief and Roger was grinning from ear to ear. We felt incredibly blessed to have two babies!

Weeks passed, my 12- week scan came and went in a flash, both babies looking happy and well.

It wasn’t until my 20-week scan that I was referred to a consultant, I didn’t think

6

Parent & Baby Series

anything of my referral as I was informed that having a consultant is common practice when having twins.

this point that we decided we couldn’t wait any longer, and we decided to find out their gender, we were having girls!

A few weeks later, I saw a consultant for another scan. It was during this that the consultant said he was struggling to see the membrane between the twins, and it was confirmed that I was carrying monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA) twins.

From then on I would need to be monitored closely as there was a high chance that I would need to deliver early, at around 34 weeks’ gestation.

The day had finally arrived for us to meet our beautiful daughters.

I was waiting on the ward with four other expectant mothers, all full of emotion, excitement and fear. My name was called, and I saw Roger, scrubbed up and ready to come into theatre and hold my hand.

Monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA) twins are a rare type of identical twins that not only share a placenta, but also share the same amniotic sac (pocket of fluid).

As the weeks went by, I was regularly checked over with blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor the twins’ growth and it was confirmed that a caesarean section would be the best option for delivery. It was at

The theatre team were brilliant and so reassuring, one of the nurses showed me two tiny, knitted hats, ‘These are for your little ones!’ she said, with a beaming smile on her face.

Everything happened so quickly and before I knew it, I was hearing the much-anticipated first cries of our baby girls.

The nurses explained that Olivia needed assistance with breathing and Pheobe was placed on my chest for our first cuddle. The nurse took Roger’s phone and took a few photos of Olivia so I could see what she looked like.

Issue 30

HandinHand

I was taken from theatre into the recovery area with Phoebe, having still not had the chance to hold or see Olivia.

The consultant came over and Roger and I were expecting the worst. We were informed that during his checks the doctor discovered Olivia had an imperforate anus and would need to be transferred to Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) immediately for surgery to form a colostomy.

I was terrified for my baby and heartbroken that I couldn’t hold her before she had to have an operation. We decided that Roger would go with Olivia to the LRI while I stayed with Pheobe, as she was having her breathing monitored.

Our brand-new little family had been separated and it was unbearable.

Roger updated me on Olivia’s progress while she was at the LRI. Consultants found that she had a heart murmur, a butterfly vertebra and Cloaca Malformation.

Cloaca Malformation is an abnormal congenital confluence of the vagina, rectum, and urethra into a single common channel.

Very early in pregnancy, the rectum, urethra and vagina fail to separate into separate tubes. This means that urine and faeces drain into a common channel opening in the perineum (the area where the anus and vagina are normally located). It occurs in one in 50,000 births and can be associated with other congenital malformations.

Six days later I travelled to Leicester to be reunited with Olivia, I was overwhelmed with emotion as I held her for the first time. I was shown her stoma for the first time, and I cried, it looked so sore on

HandinHand

Issue 30

my tiny baby’s body. We were introduced to a stoma care nurse, who was so kind and reassured me that everything was going to be ok. Roger and I were shown how to change Olivia’s colostomy bag and all of the products to make it as easy for all of us as possible.

Once both of our beautiful girls were well, we were able to take them home and we couldn’t be more excited.

We knew that Olivia would be going back to the hospital soon to have cloaca reconstruction surgery, followed by her stoma reversal.

As the weeks passed, Roger and I got more and more confident changing Olivia’s stoma bag and before we knew it, it was like second nature.

Olivia’s reconstruction surgery date came around so quickly and after a 2-week isolation, the day came for our baby girl to have her big operation.

Unfortunately, while in theatre, Olivia’s temperature spiked, and the surgeon decided it wasn’t safe for them to continue and the surgery would have to be rearranged for a few weeks’ time. Just 3 weeks later and after eight hours in surgery and four days of recovery in the

hospital, our family was reunited once again. 11 weeks later, Olivia had her final surgery to reverse her stoma. Everything went very well and our darling daughters are now reunited and causing chaos together.

To say that the last year has been a rollercoaster would be an understatement. Roger and I, like many other couples that are expecting, went into our pregnancy journey with a fairly good idea as to what we should expect and how things would go. This past year has taught us that you cannot control everything that happens, and things don’t always go to plan and all you can do is hope and ask others for help and advice.

We’re so grateful to all the doctors and nurses that looked after our family, and we hope that sharing our experience may give others going through the same thing some support and guidance.

Nobody could have predicted what would happen to Olivia and we’re so thankful, both of our girls are now healthy and well. Olivia will need further surgery when she’s a teenager, but for now, we can finally have a break from hospital visits and enjoy time together as a family.

“ As the weeks passed, Roger and I got more and more confident changing Olivia’s stoma bag and before we knew it, it was like second nature.”

Parent & Baby Series

7

y g g a B a h t i w y d d Da My name is James and I’ve been an ostomate for just over 4 months.

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2017, which came as a shock as I’d never had any health issues before, and it was as if it happened overnight. Luckily it was caught early, but that’s about the only luck I had!

The following 4 years were a blur, I was in and out of hospital and trying several different medications, none of which were successful.

I had periods when the doctors decided to put me on steroids, and these helped me finally get my UC under control. However, they came with terrible side effects, I became almost hyper/manic and then as

8

Parent & Baby Series

soon as I tapered down from them my UC would flare almost instantly. I was in a lose, lose situation. During those years I missed out on many family moments with my wife and children, fun activities like daytrips, football matches, birthday parties, that I’d always been present at before.

I felt guilty that I was unable to join in. I know that sounds bizarre as it wasn’t a choice, it was out of my control, but I felt that I was letting my family down and I worried about the impact on my boys due to them seeing me constantly ill. People say that children are stronger than we realise but how could they not be affected by their dad missing out on so much time and fun with them?

My wife tried to keep everything as normal as possible for them but the cost of this illness on them was always on my mind.

During one particular hospital stay for IV steroids, it became apparent that my ulcerative colitis was no longer responding to medication, not even the steroids. I was therefore advised to have emergency surgery. My first thought was ‘oh my goodness how will my two young boys take this news about their Daddy having a bag attached to his body?’. The immediate thought after was how it would impact on day-today activities with them as I’ve always been a ‘handson’ Dad. It turns out that I needn’t have worried so

Issue 30

HandinHand

•

•

much about their reaction as I’d forgotten a key point whilst I was worrying – young boys think poo is hilarious! The conversation was an easy one and the questions that followed were ‘does it stink’, ‘can I see it’, ‘can I see your poo’, ‘can you still do a fart?!’ Finding humour in the subject was a positive way to deal with it for us.

In the coming months, once I was starting to recover, and the boys could see that Daddy was no longer going to be housebound and running to the toilet every couple of minutes due to the constant flares. They truly realised that the bag was an amazing thing that had given them their dad back after a difficult few years.

HandinHand

Issue 30

I know that everyone’s journey and situation is different but if I were to try to give a few ‘top tips’ then they would be:

• • • •

ake your own peace M with the idea of stoma surgery before giving too much information to your children. hen you do tell them, W remember humour may help – particularly if your kids are young! ry to focus on what the T bag has given you, and your family, rather than what’s been taken away from you. e open with your B children, don’t be ashamed or make it a taboo subject. Ask

•

them if they have any questions about it. Focus on the positives.

on’t forget that children D learn from us, this is a great opportunity to demonstrate to your children how resilient the human body is and how we are all different from one another. It may well teach them to understand about disabilities, both visible and invisible. on’t try to rush into D being a ‘super-parent’ straightaway, recovery takes time, and you need to allow yourself that time. Try to be open with your children about the recovery process. You can even try to set some goals with them. Simple goals like walking through the garden and back with your kids can show them that your situation is just temporary, and it will get better. epending on your D individual circumstances, consider staying with another close family member if needed for just a couple of days when you leave hospital. Whilst you will want to go home more than anything, it can be difficult to come straight home from major surgery into a busy household with the kids wanting to climb all over you!

• M ost of all, embrace your

new life, embrace being able to parent again, and cherish those all-important family moments.

Parent & Baby Series

9

s t n e r a p by

5 Common questions asked

Working as Paediatric stoma care nurse within the Leicester team in the hospital and community settings, my day-to-day role entails looking after babies and children who need to have a stoma formed. I often meet the children and parents prior to surgery to offer support and talk about the type of stoma they may be having and give reassurance, information, and advice.

The support I offer continues during the child’s hospital stay and follow up with care at home.

Michelle Hill, Paediatric Stoma Care Nurse Most babies have stomas formed within the first 6 weeks of life which can cause extra stress on parents, with the added layer of pressure to cope with the stoma and learning to change a stoma pouch. This can be a frightening time and it’s important that parents are given reassurance & most importantly to listen to allow them to express their fears and worries. Alongside having discussions on how they will manage, the first step is explaining why this has happened to their baby.

A recurring conversation that I have with parents is that some

10

Parent & Baby Series

of them do struggle with bonding especially in the early days when the baby is born and rushed off to surgery. It’s important to me to remind parents that their child is not any different from anyone else, as all children are individuals.

Often if I can, I will try and match parents with other parents which are going through the same experience for mutual support although this isn’t always possible. It has been beneficial for sharing practical tips for coping.

Below, I have reviewed some of the most frequently asked questions raised by parents of children who have stomas formed and put the responses below:

1

Stoma Pouch Leakages – When a baby has a stoma formed there can be issues with the pouches leaking. This can be due to various reasons, one of the main reasons is the scars from surgery which make the tummy uneven, causing loose stools to leak along these tracks created by the scars.

2

Sore Skin – Skin around the stoma can often become sore.

Occasionally this is caused by the spout of the stoma not being big enough. I find spending time teaching parents how to correctly size the template and showing the signs of when the skin can become sore and irritated helps. Another factor is if the pouch is left on for too many days the skin can become sore.

We use a special powder for sore skin, and we teach parents how to apply this to protect and heal the area. It’s important to educate parents when the skin is sore from having the pouch adhered to the skin.

When educating teenagers, we highlight the importance of ensuring they keep a correct template size so that they can have a pre-cut / customized pouch which encourages proactive stoma care.

3

School / Nursery – There is no reason why a child cannot attend school or nursery. Teaching at the child’s school/nursery is

Issue 30

HandinHand

carried out to ensure staff involved with the child are trained to be able to change the pouches and observe for possible concerns. Another concern parents have with older children is if they can participate in physical activities at school. There are things like support waistbands /shields or support belts which enable children to continue with physical activity. Parents also worry about their child taking part in swimming or school trips, and to facilitate this we provide reassurance and teaching along with appropriate aids such as support bands and travel bags to store stoma product.

4

Parastomal Hernias – These occur when there is a defect allowing loops of the bowel to protrude in an area of weakness in the tummy wall. With babies, this can happen as they use a lot of their accessory muscles, so we advise observing the colour of the stoma. The stoma output also is discussed as this can sometimes be affected and can cause pain to the child or baby. Suggestions to support this would be use of the small waistbands and little belt to try and give support and try to prevent an increase in size.

Teaching is carried out with the school to ensure they are aware of what to observe for. The use of rings/washers or a convex appliance can also help when a child has anxiety about the the pouches leaking.

become more of a porridge-like consistency, a change to the usual liquid output. We remind parents that this is perfectly normal. In discussing eating habits and diet with older children, we advise them to chew their food well. Children will eat anything, even the types of foods we advise adult

stoma patients not to eat. For example, eating popcorn can potentially cause obstruction.

If this happens they should reduce foods and increase liquids but if the child develops intensifying pain it’s best to attend the hospital.

I want to share 5 tips that I give the parents/carers of patients 1. D on’t get upset if the pouch leaks: the reasons can be multifactorial so it’s important to seek advice.

2. Tummy time is a vital part of the babies’ development, parents often worry about hurting the stoma. Ensure the pouch is emptied first to prevent any leaks or bursting of the pouch so that the surface is soft for tummy time.

3. Regularly check the template on the stoma pouch throughout the first 6 weeks. The stoma will reduce in size, so it is important for the template to be checked and altered to the size of the stoma / mucous fistula. The hole should be a snug fit around the stoma.

4. Check the baby’s abdomen to see if any obvious creases or scars are present or have developed as the baby will be growing and the abdomen will change shape. If there are creases/scars, then seek advice. Your nurse may suggest things such as stoma paste, ring /washer or using a different appliance.

5. Leaks can be reduced for babies with a stoma and mucous fistula by placing a solidifying agent into the pouch, this will aid in thickening of the faeces. Advice and guidance can be given about this.

My role enables me to work closely with parent/care-givers of babies, or the child themselves to provide practical solutions, emotional support and facilitate their return to normal life with a stoma. I hope that the Q&A and tips I’ve put together can provide some comfort & knowledge for anyone who is experiencing a similar journey.

5

Diet – This is a big question especially when parents start to wean babies as the surgeons are happy to let babies with a stoma start to explore foods such as baby rice / rusks as early as 4 months. This can change the output which can

HandinHand

Issue 30

Parent & Baby Series

11

M RE THAN A BEAR Buttony has a stoma too!

k

rg.u o . r a e b y utton

www.b

Supporting children and young people with a stoma Registered Charity

K U y m o t s o Col Supporting the parents of children with stomas

Colostomy UK supports parents in lots of ways, here are just three of them:

•

Richard Biddle, Writer and editor of Tidings magazines

At Colostomy UK we know that being the parent of a child with a stoma can be an isolating and challenging experience. In a world where few people know what a stoma is, it can be difficult for parents to access advice when they need it. It’s also equally hard for them to get the more general and mutual support that comes from connecting with others in similar situations. If this applies to you, then please read on, because help is at hand.

HandinHand

Issue 30

•

Our 24-hour Stoma

Helpline (0800 328 4257).

This is free to call, and you are guaranteed to speak to a person. During office hours this will normally be a member of the Colostomy UK office team.

Outside 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM it will be one of our fully trained and DBS checked volunteers. Our helpline volunteers either have a stoma or have had one.

They will be able to help with stoma management issues, they are also there to listen. If you prefer, then call the helpline and we can arrange for the parent of a child with a stoma to speak to you instead.

rivate Facebook support P group. Membership to this vibrant and supportive community is open to not just to people with stomas, but also to their families and friends. It is a safe and confidential place to ‘meet’ other people and support one another. Amongst its 9,000 members, you’ll find plenty of parents whose children have stomas.

Search for Colostomy UK support group on Facebook and request to join.

•

Tidings magazine.

Colostomy UK’s quarterly magazine recently won an award at the British Medical Association’s Patient Information Awards. Register with Colostomy UK (www. colostomyuk.org/joinus/) to start receiving your copy. Tidings is packed with stories from people with stomas and pieces from healthcare professionals. Recent articles have included: ‘The parent’s story’; ‘The psychological impact of stoma formation in school age children’; and ‘Gut Feeling’ a story all about a support group in Leicester set up by local stoma care nurses, specifically for parents and children.

To find out more about Colostomy UK and the support we can give you, then visit our website: www.ColostomyUK.org, call us on 0800 328 4257, or drop us an email on: info@ColostomyUK.org

Colostomy UK

13

y t i l i t r e f y m The reality of

Hi Everyone, my name is Sarah and I am 32 years old. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis when I was 16 years old. That’s half of my lifetime that I have been diagnosed with an incurable lifelong disease. That’s something I don’t really think about a lot, but whilst writing this and putting it down on paper, it hits home.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. Something that I knew nothing about when I was first diagnosed, I had to research and educate myself instantly. This was difficult and lonely; I was a young girl going through my GCSEs trying to just find my feet as a teenager and woman. Nobody understood what I was going through, people would try to, but nobody was living my life. I didn’t know anyone else with ulcerative colitis either which was isolating.

Over the years I had to go through numerous medications, including, steroids, Asacol, Pentasa, Azathioprine, VSL3 probiotics, Humira injections, Infliximab, Vedolizumab, Prednisolone enemas and Suppositories. Fast forward 13 years and all of

these medications had failed, and I was rushed in for emergency surgery in April 2019 to have my ileostomy formed. This is something that I never wanted. I had always been so anti stomas and anti surgery because of the negative stigmas that associated themselves with life with a stoma.

However, I was so wrong. Having a stoma has not only improved my quality of life, but it has also allowed me to live my life.

I never knew how unwell I was during those 13 years prior to my surgery, until I had my surgery and could see what this new way of living was like.

I was so unwell, I battled every single day on harsh medications, not only living the side effects of ulcerative colitis but of the medications as well.

After my surgery I had to go through recovery and that was really hard! Post-surgery it took me a good few months to get my strength back physically and mentally. But once I had, I could instantly tell how much better I felt, I came off steroids and I was no longer on any medication, for the first time in 13 years. This was the best feeling.

“I could instantly tell how much better I felt, I came off steroids and I was no longer on any medication, for the first time in 13 years.

This was the best feeling.”

However, unfortunately not everything stayed this well. I was left with my rectal stump, something that wasn’t really discussed with me as I had emergency surgery so there wasn’t that time. But my rectal stump still has ulcerative colitis in and it flares on a daily basis, some days/ weeks worse than others. I’ve got to use suppositories to try to keep the symptoms at bay. The symptoms I get are urgency and the feeling of needing a poo

14

Sarah’s story

Issue 30

HandinHand

(which is odd) and lower abdominal pain. I will need further surgery to have this removed and I am currently on the emergency surgery waiting list for this.

This wasn’t something I was prepared foranother surgery, but hopefully this will help in the long run.

Another issue that has been caused due to surgery is fertility issues. Again, this issue wasn’t discussed with me, due to the nature of my surgery and the speed in which it took place, but I do feel it is such an important thing that we should be made aware of. As the surgery to have a stoma formed is abdominal surgery, it is close to the areas in our body responsible for fertility. After numerous tests, they found that the scar tissue from surgery has blocked my fallopian tubes. Meaning I won’t be able to conceive a child naturally. A huge blow it’s and very upsetting. I would not change having my stoma for the world, because it has allowed me to have a good quality of life, but it also isn’t a miracle cure. Sometimes I get the impression that people think, because you have a stoma it cures your ulcerative colitis, but this is much further from the truth for some people. The fatigue associated with UC is still there, the rectal stump issues and then further issues such as fertility problems.

It’s been really hard, especially as I now have to go through a new journey with my fertility problems.

I was one of those people who thought that having my stoma would be the end of my medical issues. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case, but I try to stay positive and look at all the good in my life.

The good definitely outweighs the bad, so this is something I focus on.

I have found that by sharing my story and receiving advice and support from others on my Instagram page, this has helped me to get to where I am today.

My Instagram page is @positively_stella feel free to follow or even flick through my page.

HandinHand

Issue 30

Sarah’s story

15

Introducing

Introducing

d n u o r a r fo t r o f m o c k c o l c e h t High quality continence care

You will often hear when discussing drainage bags that a bag ‘is just a bag’, but here at CliniMed we think it is much more and were proud to launch our new CliniSure range earlier this year.

High-quality, cost-effective continence care Often in place for several days, drainage bags should be comfortable, high quality and easy to use. The CliniSure range has been designed with this in mind; offering highquality products at a low cost to help the NHS save money.

“This new bag is pleasing to the eye, easy to use, comfortable and does not smell. Effective 100%.”

Mrs R

Our sterile leg and drainable bags offer a range of choices with T-tap or lever tap, long or short tube, for ease of use and personal preference.

The CliniSure range also includes a soft silicone sheath, which ensures a comfortable and secure fit, to provide peace of mind and confidence whatever your lifestyle. Our sheaths are compatible with most urine bag brands as well as our CliniSure range of drainage bags.

Kinder to the environment

Mr D, 73, has been using

drainage bags for over with eco-friendly 5 years after radiotherapy packaging treatment for bowel cancer

At CliniMed, we work hard to ensure that our products are environmentally friendly and left permanent damage to have made every effort to urinary To findas out more call the CliniMed his Careline onsystem. He found remove much plastic from 0808 296 4565 or visit www.clinimed.co.uk the CliniSure bags more the CliniSure range as possible. comfortable than his current Easy to use brand. Overall, 83% found the Patient feedback for CliniSure CliniSure leg bags were more has been excellent and most comfortable, or as comfortable ® ® CliniMedthe , CliniSure are registered trademarks found drainage bags as than their current brand. of CliniMed (Holdings) Limited. good as,Ltd if not better © CliniMed 2022. PID 10225 than, Mrs R, 59, who has used a their current brand, with different brand of drainage easy-to-follow instructions. bags for over 19 years found 100% of patients found the the CliniSure bag more CliniSure leg bags as easy, comfortable to wear, and if not easier, to fully empty despite a previous dislike for than their current leg bag. All lever taps, said the CliniSure the patients who tested the lever tap is ‘100% amazing!”.

CliniSure night drainage bag found them as easy, if not 100% of patients found the easier, to connect to their CliniSure leg bag taps as easy, leg bag. if not easier, to use than their current brand Miss N, 40, who has a permanent suprapubic To find out more about catheter and stoma from the CliniSure range, call complications following the CliniMed Careline on cancer treatment, found the 0808 296 4565 or visit CliniSure leg bag better than www.clinimed.co.uk her current brand, and easier to use ‘in all respects’.

1. Patients compared the new CliniSure bags to their current choice in a recent study.

All respondents were over 18, and existing users of drainage bags.

16

Introducing CliniSure

Issue 30

HandinHand

Introducing

High quality continence care

with eco-friendly packaging To find out more call the CliniMed Careline on 0808 296 4565 or visit www.clinimed.co.uk

CliniMed®, CliniSure® are registered trademarks of CliniMed (Holdings) Limited. © CliniMed Ltd 2022. PID 10225

HandinHand

Issue 30

Mike’s story

17

Annette’s T I have always enjoyed swimming and outdoor activities, so when my cousin completed a Triathlon in 2020 I was intrigued and asked him and myself if I could do it! I decided that I most definitely could, if I put in some training!

Annette Calam - Business Development Specialist from our Patient Service Team.

I rounded up a few neighbours during our cul-de-sac lockdown chats! 5 of us decided to enter the Blenheim Palace Triathlon Sprint which consisted of a 750 metres swim, a 12-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. Once the winter was out of the way I swapped the swimming pool for the lake, swapped my hiking boots for trainers, got out and about on my bike a bit more, and downloaded the ‘Couch to 5K’ running app to become a runner! I loved the swimming, and enjoyed getting out on

18

Patient Services Team News

Issue 30

HandinHand

Triathlon Triumph

my mountain bike, but also bought a road bike for some ‘Go Faster’ wheels as I call them! The running I found the hardest, but I completed the programme to run the 3 miles.

On the day In September, the sun was shining, and it was a brilliant day out. The family all came to watch, and the atmosphere was great. The race began with swimming, which was a great start to the race, and the run up the hill from the lake to the bike was rather steep and a challenge in itself! The bike

HandinHand

Issue 30

ride was lovely and gave the added value of taking in the palace grounds. The final part was the run which was most definitely the hardest part! Not only is it my weakest discipline, but it was also the final part of the Triathlon.

fitter and healthier in myself too. It’s worthwhile to have a goal to keep you motivated.

Would I do it again? Yes of course – I’ve entered the Windsor Triathlon next June!

It was such a great feeling to run over the finish line, to be met by my family and collect my medal, T-shirt, and a welcome energy snack! I am so pleased that I took up the challenge! I felt the dedication to the training was all worthwhile and I certainly felt

Patient Services Team News

19

r e n n i W

Looking After Me

@SecuriCare @OneStopStoma @1StopContinence

clinimed_ @ securicare Follow us for more!

20

Looking after me

We’ve put together a bespoke package of prizes to help Chris and his family to relax together. We hope to build Chris’ confidence so that he doesn’t have to worry about his continence issues while enjoying days out with Rhonda and the boys. We’ll be following Chris’ journey on our social media and in our blog posts so make sure you’re following us @clinimed_securicare or subscribed to our emails to keep up to date. If you haven’t been chosen this time, don’t worry, we’ll be launching our final ‘Looking After Me’ competition in Spring 2022.

So, keep an eye on your emails and our social media to make

sure you get your entry in.

The Looking After Me competition is now closed, and we want to say a big thank you to everyone that entered! We’re thrilled to introduce our winner, Chris! 5 years ago, Chris unfortunately sustained a major injury at work, causing multiple spinal discs to prolapse which led to spinal disease and mobility issues.

Chris has been recovering well and now has some amazing goals that we’re so happy to help him try and achieve. Chris wants to be able to gain more confidence to go on family days out with his three boys and his lovely wife Rhonda.

Issue 30

HandinHand

“I want to live a happy and fulfilled life with my family. I would like to gain confidence in taking my kids out in the outdoors again. I’d also love to give my wife a weekend off and give her back some ‘me time’ as she always assists me and the kids”.

HandinHand

Issue 30

Looking after me

21

Yoga

s m a li l i W e l l e h c i M y b s e t a m o t for os I became an ostomate 13 years ago, as a result of my Ulcerative Colitis, when my son was 12 months old. I’ve never been a huge fan of exercise or the gym so if I was told about how to exercise carefully with an ileostomy, I didn’t pay attention.

That didn’t matter though because I got my first hernia a couple of years later, whilst shovelling snow. I’d like to be able to tell you it was a few feet of snow, and I was digging our way out of the house, but it wasn’t even a foot, and I was only clearing the drive.

My recovery from that operation was very painful and this time I took a lot of notice exercising with a stoma (probably a little too much) and became very wary of any form of working out.

A few years ago, I decided I wanted to try Yoga because you can go at your own pace and can stop when you

feel your body has gone far enough. There is no pushing your body further than it is capable of.

I couldn’t find any local beginners’ classes so instead my son Callum and I started a family yoga class, aimed at the ability of children (I still found it quite hard to start with) and it was actually a really fun thing to do with Callum, as he enjoyed it as much as me … once I got him there.

Sadly, the Yoga instructor had to stop teaching, so I was back looking for beginners’ classes again (real beginners!) I turned to the internet and after

A LOT of research and watching videos I finally found a fantastic online instructor on YouTube who really teaches as you’ve just landed on Earth from Mars and never heard of Yoga. She doesn’t just tell you to get into ‘Vinyasa’, she explains what that looks like step by step. What I loved the most was her mantra, do not push yourself further than you can go. Yoga is all about getting there slowly. There is always a way you can make a pose easier to enable you to practice.

Yoga is all about getting there slowly.

There is always a way you can make a pose easier to enable you to practice.

22

Fitness & Wellbeing

Issue 30

HandinHand

“I couldn’t find any local beginners’ classes so instead my son Callum and I started a family yoga class, aimed at the ability of children (I still found it quite hard to start with) and it was actually a really fun thing to do with Callum, as he enjoyed it as much as me … once I got him there.”

From there I got the bug and in the evenings after Callum went to bed, I would clear a space on the playroom floor to roll out my yoga mat and in the summer I even practice in

the garden. The wellness that yoga brings, both physically and mentally is amazing.

Sometimes you don’t even realise you needed it until you finish a session.

Whilst working with the yoga instructor from the Henley Yoga Studio- Steve, preparing for the ‘Introduction to yoga for new ostomates’, I mentioned that only this year I realised I’d lost the range of movement twisting fully side to side. Simply from not turning to wipe my behind for the last 12 years, I didn’t even realise until an especially realistic episode of phantom

HandinHand

Issue 30

bum, led me to automatically continue the whole ritual.

Which explains why I find the ‘Belly Twist’ & ‘Half Lord’ of the ’Fish’ poses so freeing They also say that we hold a lot of our emotional tension in our hips, so I like to include a hip flexor like Reclined Bound Angle Pose in my practice too. Especially if I’m feeling super stressed. On some days during the lockdown, it was a life saver.

Join Steve and I, for a beginner’s yoga session for people living with a stoma.

We will take you through this routine which has been designed with my yoga experience as an ostomate in mind, focusing on poses which are suitable for people living with a stoma.

You can watch our video on www.clinimed.co.uk/ ostomates-yoga-guide , where you can also download a FREE Yoga guide!

Fitness & Wellbeing

23

The world’s thinnest flange extender...

Ultra-secure Instant adhesion keeps your flange securely in place

Ultra-discreet Ultra-thin, low profile and transparent material provides ultimate discretion

Ultra-comfortable Smooth and lightweight material allows the skin to breathe

Request your free sample:

Call CliniMed on 0808 296 4565 Visit www.clinimed.co.uk/UltraFrame

Manufactured by Welland®, a CliniMed® Group company.

Welland products are distributed in the UK by CliniMed Ltd. CliniMed Ltd., a company registered in England number 01646927.

Tel: 01628 850100 Fax: 01628 523579 Email: info@clinimed.co.uk or visit: www.clinimed.co.uk

Registered office: Cavell House, Knaves Beech Way, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 9QY.

CliniMed®, Welland® and UltraFrame® are registered trademarks of CliniMed (Holdings) Ltd. ©2022 CliniMed Ltd. PID 10221

2021 NHS ‘Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire’ Survey Results for

e r a C a Pharm

Each year, PharmaCare is required to publish a ‘Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire’ survey to NHS England demonstrating the level of satisfaction with the service we provide to our patients. The results of the survey were once again extremely encouraging. Taking everything into account, the PharmaCare service was rated overwhelmingly positive.

Loretta Bramley-Brant, Head of Patient Services, had this to say about the feedback, “Thank you to all that responded to our survey. Our results have demonstrated that the team have continued to provide you with a great service!”

HandinHand

Issue 30

98%

gave a rating of good or above

ParmaCare Survey Results

25

Hey everyone!

So, I’ve officially been an ostomate for 14 years, how time flies!!

Through the years I’ve had so many different worries about my stoma from dealing with bag leaks to travelling, but I’ve overcome all of them so far. I thought I’d share my concerns to try and help you through something if you’re worrying too!

e t a m o t s o as an My concerns

By Nathan Wheeler Swimming

I will never forget the moment I was told I had 2 hours left to live if I didn’t have emergency surgery ... My first question was, can I ever go swimming again? I’ve always been a water baby and I was so worried that having a stoma would affect my ability to go swimming. Turns out I was worried for nothing, ileostomy bags have come so far now that they’re pretty waterproof, this combined with my trusty support band means that I don’t have to worry when going for a swim. I used to worry so much about getting my bag out in a public swimming pool setting, but I find that nobody pays attention and if they do, it’s a pretty good talking point!

26

Nathan’s Concerns

Issue 30

HandinHand

Public Toilets

Changing The Bag

I have always hated public toilets – but then again, who actually likes them? Since having my ostomy, it’s been a total WIN in terms of toilets because you really don’t need to touch anything. Stand up, empty the bag, clean the bag, flush, and go, no sitting on gross toilet seats anymore. I thought it would be a hassle but honestly – GOD SEND!

What was once a task that seemed like the hardest thing in the world, is now something that is just routine! Sure, some days it’s harder than others, but as a whole – it’s simple. I really do have the routine down to a T now. The hardest part about bag changes is, if I have lost weight (or gained), my stoma changes sizes and I always find it tricky to make sure it’s not too tight or too loose around my ileostomy. But as a whole – it’s super easy to change, even when away from home, I always just make sure that I have spare supplies with me!

Fitness When I first had my surgery, I never thought I’d be able to work out again, but I can do pretty much anything. I love a good HIIT or weights session, but I’ve recently fallen in love with yoga.

As ostomates, we’re prone to hernias if we rush things, so go slow at first and don’t push yourself.

Check with your nurse to find out when you might be ready to get into exercise.

I’m so happy I can do most things now and don’t feel like my stoma holds me back in the slightest.

Foods Going through the list of DO’s and DON’T’s in the hospital was so daunting. They basically list anything nice that you want to eat, as something you can’t! I thought I was going to be stuck eating Ready Brek for the rest of my life. I remember accidently eating a peanut and freaking out thinking I was going to end up back into hospital. Fast forward and I eat absolutely everything I want. I’m quite a chewer, so I make sure all my food is chewed well to prevent any blockages, but there is not one food group that I leave out of my diet now.

Travelling with a Stoma Something I thought I would never get to do is travel. I thought flights would be a no go, long car rides, boats, no way – I had said goodbye to holidays... How wrong was I?! Since my ileostomy surgery, I’ve been on long haul flights to Florida and New York, I’ve been on super long car trips, a cruise and even hiked up mountains. Having an ileostomy doesn’t stop you from travelling the world.

Clothing I remember reading things online about never being able to wear jeans or a fitted shirt when you have an ileostomy and I say, HECK NO TO THAT! I live in skinny jeans and like to dress up nice in a fitted shirt. Of course, when I’m at home I want to be super comfy and wear my oversized jumpers and joggers, especially in the colder weather now. But you can wear whatever you want, as long as you’re comfy.

“I am so grateful for my Ileostomy and even though I wouldn’ t wish anyone to go through what I did – it’s really made me the person I am today.”

I am so grateful for my Ileostomy and even though I wouldn’t wish anyone to go through what I did – it’s really made me the person I am today. As humans, we adapt and overcome challenges and we find ways to live our best lives.

I am living mine! Sure, some days are still harder than others – but you take the good with the bad and keep pushing through.

I really hope that this helps some of you that have the same worries on your mind that I once had.

HandinHand

Issue 30

Nathan’s Concerns

27

Puzzles CROSSWORD

Across 5 Turn it on (4,4) 8 Lots (4) 9 Rift (4) 10 Listened (8) 11 Read of (6) 12 Chars (5) 14 Gun (3)

15 17 19 22 23 24

Slave (5) Payers (6) Bilks man (8) Mils (4) Reef (4) Roadbeds (8)

Down 1 Squatter (8) 2 Dungaree (8) 3 Casals (5,1) 4 Leis (4) 6 Snoot (3,2) 7 I L O (3)

12 13 16 18 20 21

Encrusts (8) Hair dyes (8) Burble (6) Pores (5) Sari (4) A k a (3)

All the answers are anagrams. The clues may be familiar words or random strings of letters.

28

Puzzles

Issue 30

HandinHand

SUDOKU EASY

HARD

HandinHand

Issue 30

Puzzles

29

g n i t s u b Myth To help reduce the risk of leaks:

“A leaking stoma is normal”

1. Check the skin around your stoma

FALSE

2. Find a stoma care routine that works for you

Most people living with a stoma will experience a leak from time to time, but frequent leaks are not normal.

3. Make sure your pouch is cut correctly to fit your current stoma size 4. Find the products that suit your needs

Although they happen, you should not experience leaks often, and if it is affecting your physical and mental health it is important to seek help from your Stoma Care Nurse.

5. Talk to your Stoma Care Nurse if you are worried about leakages

30

Mythbusting

Issue 30

HandinHand

Aura Plus is designed to reduce the risk of leaks, the unique plus-shaped flange helps your pouch stay secure throughout the day so you can focus on the things that matter without constantly checking your pouch. You can learn more or order a free sample at CliniMed visit: www.clinimed.co.uk/stoma-care/products/ aura-plus-range If you’re on the lookout to try new products to help reduce leaks, check out clinimed.co.uk to order free samples of products to find out what works for you!

“People living with a stoma have to wear baggy clothes”

FALSE What you wear is up to you! Some guidance will advise you to wear waistbands that don’t put pressure on your stoma or bag, however wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Immediately after surgery you might feel more comfortable wearing loosefitting clothes, but there’s no reason why you can’t choose something more fitted once you’ve healed.

Looking good starts with self-confidence!

Some people may find that they prefer to shop for clothing designed for ostomates. Check out some of these online shops: Vanilla Blush, Comfizz, Aura Clothing or I Am Denim.

“Staying hydrated is important”

TRUE The NHS guidelines recommend drinking around 1.5 to 2 litres per day, but if you have a stoma and especially if you exercise regularly or are somewhere hot, you may need to drink more unless you have been advised otherwise.

Make sure you check in with your Stoma Care Nurse to find out how much you should be drinking!

“I can’t exercise if I have a stoma”

FALSE You can exercise if you have a stoma! You will need to speak with your stoma care nurse or doctor to make sure that you’re ready to take up an exercise routine. You may not have previously been able to do exercise, run a marathon or throw heavy weights around the gym, but gently easing yourself into an exercise routine is possible. CliniMed have created a yoga routine that is ostomate friendly and a FREE downloadable EBook is available to help you gently get moving after your surgery. You find this on www.clinimed.co.uk/ostomates -yoga-guide

“It’s possible to be allergic to stoma products”

TRUE

“I am alone”

FALSE Having a stoma can be life changing. For some people having an operation to form a stoma can relieve years of painful symptoms, for others it may be a shock and difficult to accept and this can affect your mental health.

If you’re struggling with accepting or living with a stoma, you are not alone. There are approximately 180,000 people living with a stoma in the UK and many share their stories and experiences in support groups, online and in person to give support to those who need it.

It’s uncommon to experience an allergic reaction to the adhesive of your stoma bag.

If you suspect this might be happening you should seek medical advice.

It is important to remember that the skin around your stoma (peristomal) should look similar to the rest of the skin on your body.

So, if your peristomal skin looks irritated in any way, contact your stoma care nurse.

Fortunately, there are lots of different products out there for you to try. You can call CliniMed on 0808 1596 017 for unbiased product and lifestyle advice!

Speak to your Stoma Care Nurse, they can help make sure you get the right help to look after your mental health.

HandinHand

Issue 30

Mythbusting

31

Make a posi+ive choice

Unique plus shaped flange

The freedom to mix and match

Skin-friendly hydrocolloid flange

Designed to reduce the risk of creases or leakage channels forming

Choose between a bold, versatile black pouch and a light, simple sand pouch

Contains Manuka honey and may help to promote healthy skin around the stoma

Request a free sample!

Go to www.clinimed.co.uk Call the CliniMed Careline on 0808 296 4565

Manufactured by Welland®, a CliniMed® Group company.

Welland products are distributed in the UK by CliniMed Ltd. CliniMed Ltd., a company registered in England number 01646927.

Registered office: Cavell House, Knaves Beech Way, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 9QY.

Tel: 01628 850100 Fax: 01628 523579 Email: info@clinimed.co.uk or visit www.clinimed.co.uk.

CliniMed®, Welland® and Aura® are registered trademarks of CliniMed (Holdings) Ltd. ©2022 CliniMed Ltd. PID 9815

Answers CROSSWORD Across: 5 Turn into 8 Lost 9 Frit 10 Enlisted 11 Fedora 12 Crash 14 Gnu 15 Salve 17 Repays 19 Lambskin 22 Slim 23 Free 24 Adsorbed.

Down: 1 Quartets 2 Underage 3 Class A 4 Isle 6 Not so 7 Oil 12 Curtness 13 Hayrides 16 Lubber 18 Poser 20 Airs 21 Kaa.

7

8

)

)

5

' 2 $

/

$

0 %

,

%

5

EASY

(

8 1

7

(

, 1

5 5

*

9 6

&

1

(

,

5

.

,

$ $

5 (

5

2

$

3 6

5

7

/ 7

(

'

6

+ $

$

<

6

5 /

,

( 2

, 6

2

1 6

6

( '

/

6

8

& $

7

(

/

$

2

'

8

SUDOKU

HandinHand

,

7

(

6

,

6

6

/

1 2

7

7

)

5

$

4

0

' %

(

6

'

6

HARD

Issue 30

Answers

33

near you

St ma support groups yrshire & Arran Stoma A Support Group First Saturday of every other month (October, December, February…) 2pm – 4pm.

3rd Wednesday of the month.

Ferguson Day Unit, Biggart Hospital, Biggart Road, Prestwick KA9 2HQ.

For further information please contact Susan Norris on 0794 8974 350

For further information contact Jim on 01292 220945 or 07729 771350 or email jimkraz@ virginmedia.com We request a small donation to the tea/coffee/ biscuits fund, a newsletter is sent out prior to each meeting for the price of five stamps or free if by email. ishop Auckland Stoma B Care Group Every other Thursday at 1pm.

St Mary’s Church, Vart Road, Woodhouse Close Estate, Bishop Auckland DL14 6PQ. For further information contact Betty 01388 814535 or Maureen 01388 818267 Carlisle Every 2 months (October, December, February...)

11am – 12.30pm.

Harraby Community Centre, Edgehill Road, Carlisle CA1 3SN Cumbrian Bellies Search ‘Cumbrian Bellies’ on Facebook and Instagram!

For information about the next meet-up please email Nicola on rowson.nicola@yahoo.co.uk Darlington Stoma Support Group 3rd Wednesday of the month between 6pm – 7.30pm.

Harrowgate Club and Institute, Salters Lane North, Darlington DL1 3DT. For further information contact Sister Jacqui Atkinson on 01325 743005

34

artford Ostomy Support D Group (DOGS)

Stoma support groups

St Anselms Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ.

urham and Wearside D Crohn’s & Colitis Support Group Every 3 months (June, October...) 2pm – 4pm.

Chester le Street Cricket Club, Ropery Lane, DH3 3PF. For further information please email dw@groups. crohnsandcolitis.org.uk Durham Stoma Support Group First Monday of every month between 4pm – 6pm.

Old Trust Headquarters, University Hospital of North Durham, North Road, Durham DH1 5TW. For further information contact Sister Katie Sewell on 0191 3332184 igh Wycombe Stoma H Support Group 12th July, 13th September, 8th November 2019 10.30am – 12.30pm.

Wrights Meadow Centre Wrights Meadow Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP11 1SQ. For further information call 0800 318965 Horden Stoma Support Group First Monday of every month between 10am – 12pm.

Horden Youth & Community Centre, Eden Street, Horden Peterlee, Co. Durham SR8 4LH. For further information contact Claire on 0191 5863520

I nside Out Stoma Support Group

Zoom ‘Coffee Morning’ meetings every two weeks St. Mark’s Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow HA1 3UJ. For further information please email Barry Caplan on abmc23@virginmedia.com or call 07811 084514 irby Ostomy Support K Group 3rd Saturday of the month, 10.30am – 12.30pm.

The Clinical Education Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Groby Road, Leicester LE3 9QP. For further details please contact Janet on kosg2013@ btinternet.com or 07464 957982 Leicestershire Ostomy Support Group Once a month on a Saturday from 10.30am – 12.30pm For further information please contact Janet on 01162392844 or 07464957982 Email: kosg2013@btinternet.com ercia Inside Out Support M Group, South Derbyshire/ East Staffordshire Bimonthly afternoon and evening meetings.

Emmanuel Church, 31 Church Street, Swadlincote DE11 8LF. For information email merciassgroup@gmail.com Nuneaton Stoma Support Group 3rd Wednesday, every other month, (September, November, January...) 7 – 9pm.

Manor Court Baptist Church, Manor Court Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5HU. For further information contact Bob Burrell on 07564 680803 or email nuneatonstoma@aol.com

Issue 30

HandinHand

Penrith

Stevenage Ostomistics

Every 3 months (April, July, October...) 11am – 12pm.

Last Saturday morning of each month 10.30am – 1pm.

Temple Sowerby Medical Practice, Linden Park, Temple Sowerby, Penrith, Cumbria CA10 1RW.

Oval Community Centre, Vardon Road, Stevenage SG1 5RD.

For further information, contact one of the Stoma Care Nurses: Jill Coulthard, Gillian Harker, Emma Ludi, Nikki Armstrong, Ruth Hetherington on 01228 814179 Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

For information contact Judy Colston on 01438 354018 or email neilcolston@btinternet. com (each session is ended with chair yoga!) ing Stoma W Support Group Every 2 months, 11am – 12.30pm.

Wing Hall, 71 Leighton Road, Wing, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 0NN.

2 – 4pm.

Stanground Community Centre, Whittlesey Road, Peterborough PE2 8QS.

For information call 0800 036011

For information contact Pat on 01733 247135/07721189813, Maria on 01778 702237 or Allan on 01354 653290/07836 661102 he Shropshire B.O.Ts T (Bums on Tums) 2nd Thursday of each month, at 2pm.

Memorial Hall, Oswestry SY11 2EG For further information call: Irene Constable - 01691 238357 or Carole O’Ryan - 01691 671624 Alternatively email: ireneconstable@phonecoop.coop S.O.S Solent Ostomates Support Last Wednesday of the month (excluding December) 2 – 4pm.

Workington Every 2 months (October, December, February...) 2 – 4pm.

Workington Infirmary, Park Lane, Workington CA14 2RW. ou are not alone, Y Chesham Support Group Last Monday of the month, 10.30am – 12.30pm.

The Kings Church Chesham Offices, Unit 11 Chess Business Park, Moor Road, Chesham, Buckinghamshire HP5 1SD. For further details please contact Carla Wright 07846 354918 carla_wright@ sky.com

Kings Community Church, Upper Northam Road, Hedge End, Southampton SO3 4BB. For further information call 07527 707069 or email solentostomates@hotmail.co.uk

Calling all support groups!

Ostomates and continence patients often call our Careline asking for advice and support. So, whether you’re a stoma or continence support group, we’d love to share your details.

If you’d like to share the details of a group to include in future editions of Hand in Hand please email info@securicaremedical.co.uk.

HandinHand

Issue 30

Stoma support groups

35

Help is a phone call away Whether you are placing your next order with SecuriCare, in need of a friendly chat or advice about your stoma or continence care, help is closer than you think.

Useful phone numbers SecuriCare Careline 0800 585 125 Colostomy UK 0800 328 4257 Urostomy Association 01889 563 191 Ileostomy & Internal Pouch Association 0800 018 4724

Bladder & Bowel Foundation 01926 357 220

Junior Ostomy Support Helpline 0800 328 4257

Bladder and Bowel UK (PromoCon) 0161 607 8219

Multiple Sclerosis Society 0808 800 8000

SecuriCare Orderline 0800 318 965

Spinal Injuries Association 0800 980 0501 Back Up 020 8875 1805

Mental wellbeing support Our SecuriCare team are always ready to listen, but if you need some additional support with your mental wellbeing these wonderful charities are here too.

Mind 0300 123 3393

Childline 0800 1111

Age UK 0800 678 1602

Samaritans 116 123

Young Minds 0808 802 5544

Cruse Bereavement Care 0808 808 1677

CALM 0800 58 58 58

The Silver Line 0800 4 70 80 90

SecuriCare (Medical) Ltd, Cavell House, Knaves Beech Way, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks HP10 9QY. Tel: 01628 850100 Fax: 01628 810839.

Email: info@securicaremedical.co.uk. www.securicaremedical.co.uk.

PID 10303