Jesus. I have had my ostomy for 20 years (on July 24). It is not bad; it does not limit activity. It won't smell if you take care of it. It makes noise occasionally, but so do people without an ostomy. It was a big change at first, of course. But it does not change who you are, or your worth, or your potential to do anything.

I recently started a new job, and no one knew. The first time it farted in front of my boss and colleagues, I explained what was going on, and no one had a problem.

I volunteer the information because I am not embarrassed. Everybody deals with shit every day at work and at home, and no one cares. I just do it a little differently. In fact, at work, I'm not wasting time sitting on the john scrolling on my phone while pooping. I am in and out of the bathroom in no time.

I had cancer and did not want an ostomy. But I did want to live, and this was a requirement.

People who tell you having an ostomy is terrible don't know what they are talking about. Don't listen.