Small milestone, but a milestone nonetheless

So as anyone knows I have had issue after issue with leaking. I read on here somewhere that someone changes their appliance on Saturday, every Saturday, so it doesn't affect work or workdays. I just started working and thought this would be amazing if I could make my system last a week. So I set out to do just that. I put on a Hollister two piece system with my handy dandy ostomy belt last Sunday. I went through my week at my temp job. I just started working again and can't find anything full time so temping it is. I didn't realize it and although I was aware of my appliance at work (because I'm still a little paranoid about leaks) there were times I found myself not worrying about it at home.

Then this morning came. As I woke up and got some breakfast I realized - IT'S SUNDAY!!!!! I haven't changed my appliance all week. I made it!!! SEVEN WHOLE DAYS!!! I couldn't believe it!

Now Convatec sent me a three month supply because of my lack of income recently and no medical insurance. So I have their one piece system that worked the best for me. But I have used up all my two piece Hollister systems and I'm sad. I talked to my product person over there and it doesn't seem like they have any programs like Convatec did. I am going to try to contact Ostogroup this week to see if I can get some Hollister products.

So I'm wearing a Hollister one piece right now. I still feel more comfortable than I did with my Convatec appliance. It's such a wonderful feeling to think I found a system that works for me! I can't believe it - I was so depressed for a while I thought I'd NEVER find anything. So if there's any new ostomates out there know that you WILL find something. Take advantage of the samples you can get - they make all the difference. And thank you to the regular members who have been such great support!!!!!

Thank you for that comment. It really hit me and made me realize THAT is what I wanted. It gave me something to strive towards and I appreciate it more than I could put into words. I know that it won't always be perfect but when I realized I went a week I felt amazing today!

BEARBEAR3:

Congrats on your milestone.... you, along with several other folks on here are an inspiration to me for my surgery (TBD...not a matter of if, but when)...

Merry X-mas!

 

Disneynut

I have gotten samples from Convatec, Hollister and Coloplast. Coloplast and Hollister have a "get samples" page on their website. You can also call and talk to WOC nurses at Convatec or product specialists at Hollister. Convatec has a three month supply free for low income/no insurance individuals and Hollister does something similar. The samples generally come in 3-5 days from when you request them. It's been a LIFESAVER for me. Being unemployed with no insurance I'd have been out of a home by now if I'd have had to purchase enough product to figure out what works. OR I'd have gone crazy trying to use a product that didn't work so well! Good luck!