Finding Strength Through Scleroderma and an Ostomy: Sandra Mannon’s Story
On the May 28th episode of the Beautiful Bag Podcast, LeeAnne Hayden sits down with Sandra Mannon to discuss her remarkable journey with scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease, and her decision to undergo an ileostomy. Sandra’s story is one of courage, resilience, and transformation, A true testament to the power of self-advocacy and mindset in the face of life-changing health challenges.
From Trauma Nurse to Patient
Sandra spent years working as a trauma nurse, caring for others in critical moments. But after a meningitis infection triggered scleroderma, she found herself on the other side of the hospital bed. She faced a cascade of complications, including bowel obstructions, reflux, and ultimately the need for an ileostomy. Despite her medical knowledge, accepting this new reality was deeply challenging.
Navigating Surgery and Complications
The decision to have an ileostomy became a turning point in Sandra’s life. Post-surgery, she experienced unexpected complications—such as infections and prolapses—that tested her physically and emotionally. She candidly shares on the podcast how, at her lowest point, she felt exhausted and even wished her life would end. Yet, through resilience and support, Sandra slowly found healing.
Healing Through Mindfulness and Acceptance
Sandra credits mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga for helping her regain a sense of peace and control. These practices allowed her to reframe her experience and begin to see her ostomy not as an ending, but as a new chapter. She speaks powerfully about the importance of acceptance, positivity, and patient advocacy in redefining life after an ostomy.
Life After an Ostomy
Today, Sandra lives fully and with gratitude. “Life is now good,” she says. “I want to live my life. This ostomy is not the end of our life. Let this show how strong you are.” She also shares practical tips for managing life with an ostomy, reminding listeners that resilience, self-care, and community can make even the hardest transitions easier.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
Sandra’s journey with scleroderma began after a meningitis infection.
She faced multiple health challenges, including bowel obstructions and reflux.
An ileostomy became a major turning point in her life.
She stresses the importance of advocating for your own health.
Post-surgery, she experienced complications like infections and prolapses.
Mindfulness, meditation, and yoga were key to her emotional healing.
Acceptance and positivity helped her rebuild her life and identity.
Today, Sandra embraces her ostomy as part of her strength—not her limitation.
Sandra’s story is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, healing and hope are possible. Whether you’re living with an ostomy, navigating a rare disease, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for the journey.
👉 Listen to the full episode of the Beautiful Bag Podcast here
