Urostomate Jackie Hannay is passionate about swimming. Having survived bladder cancer, she found herself longing to get back in the water, but first, she had to overcome her fear and embarrassment of swimming with a urostomy. Jackie, who lives in Lewes, Sussex, said:
“Once I started feeling more confident about traveling with a stoma, I was desperate to swim but I had concerns. I was worried I couldn’t swim as I had before and that, if others saw my stoma, it would cause embarrassment for them as well as myself.
“I found myself putting up barriers. What would happen if the bag got detached, or became too heavy? How would I empty it? How would I get changed after swimming? And what would happen if I was kicked by another swimmer? But once I’d taken my first swim in the local baths, all my concerns became more manageable.
“Swimming felt just like before my operation, with the same freedom of movement in the water.”
“No-one seemed to notice my stoma, and my bag stayed firmly in place. I find swimming first thing in the morning best as the bag fills more slowly, and I always use the facilities before getting into the water. I have never been kicked, although I am careful to make sure there is adequate room when passing other swimmers.
“My confidence has grown, and I now swim two or three times a week. I resumed my SwimTrek holidays, and last year completed my dream one in the Maldives. When I experienced a leak, one of the other swimmers – a doctor – provided me with additional tape that successfully secured my bag during long swims and overnight.
“For long swims I wear a shorty wetsuit with a front zip, which supports my stoma and is easy to remove when required. I empty my bag at various points when we stop on rocks or in other bays, and the support boats have facilities.
“The future feels bright. I run, walk and cycle, but most of all I love my morning swims in the pool in Lewes, appreciating the crystal-clear crispness of the water and the early morning smiles of fellow swimmers. There and back, I cycle past the birds and the ducks and am ever grateful for the experience.”
