Navigating life after 3 ostomies with guest Ann Marie

LeeAnne introduces guest Ann Marie Lupacckino, who has had 3 ostomies. Ann Marie shares her journey, which began 18 years ago during pregnancy with a bowel perforation. Ann Marie underwent emergency surgery to remove her large intestine while pregnant. Despite challenges, Ann Marie gave birth full-term and underwent reversal surgery a year later. Ann Marie experienced complications, including severe anal fissures, leading to her decision for an ostomy last March. Complications post-surgery led to a second ostomy in October and a third surgery in February. Ann Marie emphasizes the impact of ostomies on her life and the importance of adaptation. Both LeeAnne and Ann Marie stress the supportive ostomy community and the resources available. Ann Marie looks forward to resuming her exercise routine once fully healed, highlighting the mental benefits. The conversation touches on the adjustments in diet and hydration with an ostomy. Ann Marie reflects on her journey, expressing gratitude for her surgeon and acceptance of her current situation.