Fall Hikes and Stoma Safety

Today, I was lucky enough to look outside my windows at work and see the leaves change colors. It is a beautiful view and it made my heart sing with the thought of being outside. This really is the thing that I long for each year. Being outside and enjoying the cool weather while seeing great views is what I love the most about the season. It is funny that some people think that because I have a stoma that I shouldn't go out and enjoy the great outdoors. But those thoughts are really just silly and at best ignorant. But I don't hold it against people for not knowing about my capabilities. I am always happy to let them know that it does not get in the way of my passion or what I really enjoy going out and doing with my family. Fall hikes are a staple of our family during this time of year. There are a few safety precautions that are important to think about when going on a hike with a stoma. So I want to go over a few of those just to give you a heads up on the possibilities and some ways to ensure you are going to be safe if you decide to go on a fall hike too.

For most hikes even before my ostomy surgery, I liked to carry important things with me. Having the right amount of water, food, and shelter/clothing is really important. Those are basics for hiking especially when you are in higher elevations or in the mountains where the weather can change in the blink of an eye. So to me carrying an extra days worth of ostomy gear and having some extra sanitation items on me in case a leak or a tear occurs is essential. It really doesn't take up that much space or weight to get all the things you really need or may need in a backpack.

What I like to do with that gear is to make sure my backup gear is protected from the elements and from mistakes. That means if I take a tumble down a hill I want my gear that will be my replacements to be safe. So I usually store it in a waterproof and secure and strongbox. Otterbox is a brand I like and Yeti makes some good stuff as well. To me taking on a little extra weight is worth not having anxiety or fear that something may go wrong. I have confidence in my gear and abilities to take on the trail and to be able to forget the fear and just enjoy the great outdoors.