I finally made some changes to how I interact with my readers.
From today I’ve opened up the ability to comment on my blogs.
I’ve got to be honest. I am somewhat nervous, but I have faith that people coming to my blogs are here for some cheery bag inspo rather than to troll me. Well that’s the hope anyway. ;)
Going global
The last few days have been a blur. I cannot express enough the gratitude I feel towards everyone that has played a part in getting my idea out in to the public domain. The online press have taken my story and run with it and that is thanks to two very special journalists at Hotspot Media, who believed in me even when I didn't. What a refreshing change to hear of women supporting and flying the flag for other women, rather than tearing them down.
Huge thank you to Chris, who has always been my biggest supporter , encourager and best friend, with out doubt the most incredible man I've ever met! With special thanks to those boys of mine without whom none of any of this would have meaning or worth.
I have received messages from people all over the world who are just about to have an ostomy op or those that are struggling after. I have also heard from people who wanted to share their hints and hacks. Which was one of the reasons I wanted to set up the website to start with. My blogs were a secondary thought but they too have been well received (not bad for a dyslexic with not a single pass grade GCSE to her name!)
Helping just one person was all I could have hoped for, knowing that I there is a whole community of ostomites out there that are able to use my ideas from my experience over the years is nothing short of spectacular! I am overwhelmed and blown away by the reaction to the news stories.
Gladrags & Bags is launched
For a really long time now, I've been wanting to put some of my experience out there for people to use. Mostly I have found dressing with a colostomy an extreme case of trial and error. Thankfully I've had many highs along the way where outfits have surpassed my expectations but also some very unfortunate real lows, for example when my bag leaked in the Jimmy Choo department at Harvey Nic's, I could've just curled into a ball with the embarrassment and shame, I wanted the world to just swallow me up. Instead I picked myself up and dusted myself off, or in this case I dashed across town back to my car red faced for a quick change. Then straight back to Choo with my head held high to finish off my purchase - after all s*** happens, don't let that stop you!
Gladrags & Bags is about looking & feeling good whilst having to wear a colostomy bag, and I now know, many years on its possible and achievable.
I don't belong to any stoma support groups, I've never felt any need, having a colostomy doesn't define me, it simply makes me think smarter when it comes to shopping and dressing. That being said I'm always up for new and inventive ways of hiding my bag and dressing without risk of leaks. Any tips and hacks would be gratefully received , email me via the contact info and I will add your hint attributed to you.