Triumph Over Adversity: Crystal's Journey as a Double Ostomate

The Beautiful Bag

• LeeAnne Hayden, host of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," welcomes listeners to Episode 118, expressing gratitude for their continual support and encouraging them to share the podcast on social media.
• Reminder: LeeAnne encourages listeners on Apple Podcasts to leave ratings and reviews to help promote the show.

Guest Introduction:

• Crystal, a double ostomate, sarcoma cancer survivor, and Crohn's disease fighter, shares her compelling journey.
• The episode focuses on her diagnosis, the challenges she faced, and her resilience in overcoming adversity.

Crystal’s Journey:

• Diagnosed in February 2022 after a severe bladder issue, leading to an ER visit and subsequent discovery of her condition.
• Underwent multiple treatments and surgeries, including chemotherapy and a complex procedure resulting in a colostomy, urostomy, and partial hysterectomy.
• Emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, as Crystal pushed for a CT scan against initial medical advice.

Challenges and Recovery:

• Discusses the mental and physical challenges post-surgery, including adapting to life with ostomy bags and managing related complications.
• Shares strategies for coping with mental health issues, including finding comfort in ASMR and Reiki videos.
• Crystal highlights the value of the ostomy community on social media for support and advice.

Life After Surgery:

• Returning to work and the accommodations made for her comfort and convenience.
• Discusses her first vacation post-surgery, a cruise, addressing the challenges and adjustments required for traveling with an ostomy.
• Shares a humorous story about managing her ostomy in an unexpected situation.

Final Thoughts:

• Crystal’s advice to listeners: Take time with healing and don’t rush the recovery process.
• LeeAnne discusses her own experiences with sarcoma, emphasizing the rarity and complexity of the condition.