When you first hear that an ostomy bag is going to be your life companion it is a scary thing.  Your heart falls and you feel like your life is legitimately over.  Now not everyone feels this way. Many people are really happy because they found the answer to a life-threatening problem. But sooner or later thoughts of the ostomy bag and the stories you have heard start to creep into your head. 

The fear of being sexy or beautiful always happens and rather you are a guy or girl the feeling is there.  It is hard to think about in the beginning and the thought of looking bad in your favorite clothes hits hard.  Humans and especially Americans are very unforgiving of our own personal thoughts on our own looks.  We are our own worst critics for the most part and we overblow many situations way out of proportion.  I just want to say, that it is ok to feel that way and to let you know that you can still feel and be sexy and beautiful. 

We live in a world with almost endless possibilities and solutions to problems and believe me looks and fashion is not a problem.  Most individuals get passed the learning curve of using their ostomy gear pretty fast.  They understand their new daily routine and learn that they can live their life almost exactly the same as before.  With only a few routine differences. What you can then get into is looking good with different kinds of ostomy gear and being able to rock your favorite style.  Believe me you have a style and everyone is different.  I hear burly men tell me that it doesn't matter, but believe me if they don't look cool while hunting they get self-conscious.  There is always something that hits home when it comes to looks and it may even be your physical body as well.

I just want to say that you are able to almost always workout and find clothes to fit your style.  Those are two main staples for Americans and it usually psychologically important for them to understand that this is possible.  So I want to give you some tips on where to start.  First social media is incredible.  It can hurt people very badly, but I have found that it is pure education for those with a stoma. 

There are so many good places to go to get information from people just like you.  They have had surgery, and they now live with a stoma.  But the best part is that they are willing to share their lives and experiences with you.  Now some are fake and make things seem different than they really are, but most are honest. They have been where you are and only want to help. I have found youtube channels and chats that have helped me to look good and even helped me find the clothes I need. 

There are Instagram channels that are dedicated to fitness for those with stomas and give great tips, videos and are so willing to talk to you personally about your body.  They give tips on the failures they have had. They can talk about ostomy gear that works for them and tips on where to try it free. The experiences I have had are great, so take heart, be hopeful, and go and live!