#auguts hard to talk about
I have generally found it’s best to be open and honest with people. For many years I would be too embarrassed to use disabled loos as I don’t look disabled! I eventually got over that and am pleased to say that I’ve never been challenged.
My most embarrassing memory linked to my stoma has actually scarred me quite deeply. I returned from lunch early one day and I caught sight of my manager dancing around the office telling my colleagues I was going to have a bag as I had a ‘big smelly problem’. He had a Tesco carrier bag taped to his trousers. I was devastated. An awkward silence ensued and I left, never to return. This was 35 years ago and attitude and awareness has thankfully improved so much. That said, that incident totally wrecked my confidence and I became very insular and secretive where my stoma was concerned. As the years went by and my health improved, I found it easier to talk about my stoma but I did pick my audience, staying away from people I felt would have no empathy or understanding. Fortunately, my next employer was extremely supportive and helped me regain the confidence I’d lost. I stayed in that job for over 20 years. In my personal life I have never really gone public as such since most of my family already know and it’s just a part of me like my arm or leg!
Seven years ago however, complications after a hysterectomy left me with an abdominal fistula which means I now wear two bags. This has been life changing and I am still very embarrassed by it as the bag is totally unreliable compared to a stoma. I don’t even try and explain as most people have never heard of a fistula so I find it just creates more questions which adds to my embarrassment.
I have, however, generally found it’s best to be open and honest with people. For many years I would be too embarrassed to use disabled loos as I don’t look disabled! I eventually got over that and am pleased to say that I’ve never been challenged. People are now generally more aware that not all disabilities are visible and hopefully dinosaurs like my old boss from the 80s are where they should be-long gone!
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In 2005 I had a c-section with twins and after that I struggled with abdominal pain and some incontinence for years afterwards. This was diagnosed as IBS. In 2016 the incontinence got worse but this time with bleeding. I went to my GP and was referred for tests within three weeks.
Rebecca shares her story from diagnosis with IBD to Bowel Cancer and the importance of research. A keen allotment grower, Rebecca joined the charity at the debut of the Bowel Research UK Microbiome Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.
Sid Hill and Chris Hull, created, the Bowel Research UK Microbiome Garden, an edible meadow focussing on the connection between the ecological health of the landscape, it’s soil and the health of our own gut microbiome.
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Welcome to our #auguts campaign. This year we are focussing on the MicrobioME because gut health is unique to you. Discover our recipes, share your tips and get comfortable with the uncomfortable.
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