Written for Our Cancer Stories.
Excerpt
Living with colorectal cancer is never easy, and even when treatment options are available, many of them are not without their drawbacks.
An ostomy is a potentially lifesaving procedure for colorectal cancer patients. It allows the body to continue removing waste in the event that the colon and/or rectum is partially or completely removed. To do so, however, requires an opening known as a stoma to be made in the abdomen. Any waste is then diverted through the hole into an external bag.
For some patients, getting an ostomy is a temporary measure to allow time for the colon to heal before the opening is sealed surgically. For others, the ostomy is permanent, and has an impact on their lives.
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Samantha Phua 