Thriving Through Challenges: Cass Roberts' Journey

The Beautiful Bag

• Introduction: LeeAnne Hayden welcomes listeners to the episode from her loft, introducing Cass Roberts as her guest. They met at the UAA convention in August and bonded over their shared experiences.

• Dancing and Transformative Power: Cass shares her love for dancing and how it has been transformative for her. She reflects on the immense joy she experienced at the UAA convention, being surrounded by people with ostomies like herself.

• Cass's Journey with Crohn's Disease: Cass opens up about her journey with Crohn's disease, starting from her diagnosis at age 11 in rural Mississippi. She details the challenges of misdiagnosis, extensive treatments, and the impact on her physical and emotional well-being.

• Experience with Ostomy Surgery: Cass describes her initial aversion to the idea of having an ostomy and the fears she had to overcome. She shares the circumstances that led to her first ostomy surgery in 2008 and the subsequent complications that necessitated a permanent ostomy in 2013.

• Life with an Ostomy: Despite initial struggles, Cass shares how her life has flourished since embracing her ostomy. She pursued diverse interests, including a career as a truck driver and owning a Princess Tea Party company. She also reflects on memorable moments, such as performing at children's parties despite wardrobe mishaps.

• Embracing Confidence: Cass emphasizes the importance of confidence and self-acceptance. She encourages listeners to celebrate their uniqueness and to recognize that they are more than their medical conditions.

• Building Community: LeeAnne and Cass discuss the power of community in overcoming challenges associated with ostomies. They reflect on the increasing visibility and support available for individuals with ostomies, both online and through in-person gatherings like conferences.

• Current Endeavors: Cass shares her current role as a developmental interventionist, working with children with disabilities. She emphasizes the significance of advocating for oneself and others in navigating health challenges.

• Final Thoughts: Cass leaves listeners with a message of self-love and respect, encouraging everyone to recognize their inherent worth beyond any physical differences.

• Conclusion: LeeAnne expresses gratitude to Cass for sharing her inspiring journey and vibrant spirit with listeners, highlighting her resilience and positivity.

Through their candid conversation, LeeAnne and Cass provide insight into the journey of living with an ostomy, emphasizing themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and the power of community.