Living with a chronic illness is a journey that often remains unseen. It's a battle fought not only against the physical symptoms but also against societal taboos and stigmas. In our latest episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," we had the privilege of hosting a remarkable guest, Tina, known as "Own Your Crohn's" on Instagram. She shared her incredibly personal story of living with Crohn's disease and undergoing an ostomy procedure. Tina's journey is a powerful testament to resilience, breaking cultural barriers, and finding strength in the face of adversity.

The Unseen Struggles of Crohn's Disease:

Tina's journey began over 17 years ago when she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Her condition, initially classified as mild, progressively worsened, pushing her through various treatments and biologics in search of relief. But as Tina candidly shares in the podcast, sometimes, the path to healing isn't as straightforward as we hope.

The Decision to Undergo Surgery:

At just 24 years old, Tina found herself confronted with a life-changing decision: undergoing surgery. She chose to have a J pouch surgery, a procedure intended to treat ulcerative colitis, but unforeseen complications arose due to Crohn's disease. Tina's story highlights the unpredictability of living with a chronic illness and the importance of adaptability.

The Weight of Cultural Stigma:

One of the most powerful aspects of Tina's story is her openness about the cultural stigmas and taboos associated with ostomies in certain communities. For many, cultural expectations, such as marriage and religious practices, can be profoundly impacted by the presence of an ostomy bag. Tina's courage in addressing these taboos is a call to break down the barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice.

The Emotional Toll:

Living with an ostomy can take a significant emotional toll. Tina doesn't shy away from discussing the impact on her self-esteem and mental health. The societal pressure to conform to beauty standards and the fear of judgment can be overwhelming. Tina's story serves as a reminder that mental health is an essential part of the journey toward healing.

Overcoming Stigmas and Advocacy:

Tina's advocacy work is centered around breaking through the stigma associated with ostomies. Her voice, along with others in the ostomy community, is a beacon of hope for those who might be struggling in silence. She encourages acceptance and inclusion in all communities, irrespective of health conditions.

The Intimate Aspect: Ostomies and Sexual Health:

The podcast also delves into the intimate aspect of life with an ostomy. Tina and LeeAnne share personal experiences and insights into how ostomies and fistulas can impact sexual health. Their candid conversation provides valuable information and reassurance to individuals facing similar challenges.

Improved Quality of Life:

Tina highlights how her ostomy has significantly improved her quality of life. It has allowed her to enjoy activities and experiences that she previously couldn't. Her story is a reminder that resilience and adaptability can lead to a fulfilling life even in the face of adversity.

Marriage and Acceptance:

Navigating relationships and marriage while living with a chronic illness can be complex. Tina discusses the importance of open communication, understanding, and acceptance within relationships. Her story provides insights into the profound impact of empathy and support from loved ones.

Tina's journey, as shared in this episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast," is a testament to the power of resilience and self-acceptance. It reminds us that living with a chronic illness is not a solitary battle; it's a shared experience that can be made more manageable through open dialogue and the breaking of cultural stigmas. Tina's advocacy and her courage to own her Crohn's inspire us all to embrace our unique journeys and find strength in the face of adversity.

Listen to the podcast HERE