Cathy Varley thought that 2024 was going to be her year. But a shock diagnosis of bladder cancer threw her into turmoil. In this interview, conducted just four months after her surgery, Cathy describes how she has not only came to terms with her urostomy, but has grown to be proud of it!
As the day of your op draws closer, there’ll be lots to think about, from what to pack for your hospital stay to arranging a lift home after you’ve been discharged. We’ve put together some practical tips to help make life a little easier at what can feel like a stressful time.
Getting a good night’s sleep is not always straightforward for people living with a urostomy. So do check out the recording of our ‘Ask the Experts’ webinar and hear from speakers as they explore the types of night bags available, and share hints and tips that could help with your night time routine. The event, kindly sponsored by Coloplast Ltd, was held on 14 November 2024.
Show your friends, colleagues, and loved ones you care by sending Urostomy Association eCards. At the same time, you’ll be helping people find the strength, support and confidence they need to embrace new lives following urinary diversion surgery.
In her blog, Jasmine King explores the unexpected crisis unfolding in urology clinics nationwide as more young adults grapple with bladder issues tied to their recreational Ketamine use.
To mark World Ostomy Day, we held an online Insights Day to explore national trends and emerging themes in urinary diversion care, and what these mean for urostomates and those involved in their care. If you missed it, do take a look at the recording.
Anyone can encounter sexual problems after urinary diversion surgery, and everyone’s experiences vary. We hope this information helps as you explore what sexual wellbeing will mean to you going forward.
For Gary Layzell, adapting to life with a urostomy has been as much about looking after his mind and emotions as it has regaining physical fitness post surgery. Both mentally and physically, he has found new strength from sport and camaraderie that is helping him face the future with hope.
To mark Urology Awareness Month 2024, we joined forces with Coloplast Ltd to produce a new podcast, with special guests sharing their experiences of preparing for a urostomy, and the early days afterward.
Being told that you will never wee normally again is terrifying. Most people have never heard of a urinary diversion, and simply cannot imagine going through life without a functioning bladder. That’s why we’re running our Help provide hope appeal.
