We’re excited to introduce Ed Chaplin as the newest ambassador for Oakmed! As someone who has navigated life with an ostomy, Ed brings a wealth of experience, insight, and positivity to our community. In support of World Ostomy Day, Ed will be sharing his personal journey, offering invaluable tips, and spreading awareness about living with an ostomy.
We’re thrilled to have Ed on board and look forward to his inspiring contributions in the months ahead. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Ed as he helps us continue to support and empower ostomates everywhere! And don’t forget to give him a follow at @justadudewithcrohns on Instagram.
What are your top tips for living with a stoma?
- Please don’t think this means life is over! It’s not, in fact I’ve been able to live my life way better than I previously did!
- Get advice! Talk to people, ask for their experiences because everybody is unique and different!
- Don’t be ashamed! Everybody’s different and everybody is different! This is now your super-power.
How important has community support been for you? Have you connected with other ostomates, and how has that helped you?
The social media community has been everything for me! Finding people who have been through very similar experiences and sharing stories and making friendships has honestly got me through so much! It’s a space where we can be completely open with each other, seeing the good, the bad and the hilarious. I can say for sure I’ve made some lifelong friends which is amazing!
How do you talk to friends, family, or even strangers about your stoma? Any advice for making those conversations easier?
When talking to friends and family or even strangers I tend to keep it light-hearted and funny if I can! People tend to always react the same way when I tell them my full story, so I always want to keep it lighter to be honest. My family have always been my biggest supporters, especially my mum who is my rock and has helped me so much.
Have you given your stoma a name?
I named my stoma Homer (after the Dad in The Simpsons) and he has come with his challenges, but I’d honestly say he makes things so much easier! He’s my little bag of poo and he’s saved my life!
What’s a hobby or activity you’ve discovered or enjoyed more since your surgery?
I’ve always loved mountain biking and have done it all my life but since having Homer it’s become even easier! I know what I need to take with me, I always wear my support band and can empty/change my bag anywhere I need, without worry!
If you could spend a day with any celebrity, who would it be and what would you do?
If I could spend a day with a celebrity, it would be my hero Valentino Rossi! My biggest passion is motorbikes, and I grew up watching him race and just loved it! I’d love to go to his hometown in Italy with him.
What are your goals or aspirations for the future?
Looking forward, my goals are mainly fitness based. Fitness has become a massive thing in my life, and I love working out in the gym! I also want to spend more time on my mountain bike and exploring new places.
What message do you want to share with others on World Ostomy Day?
For World Ostomy Day, I just want to show people all the things you can do with a stoma and to show everyone, that it doesn’t have to stop you living your life in the best way!
