Recently, a member of an online ostomy forum asked about the “fun perks” of having an ostomy. I know it’s not all sunshine & roses, but sometimes it’s good to remind ourselves there can be an upside too (in addition to saving our lives). Here are some of the responses:

• Never having to use a porta potty (particularly on a cold day).
• Being able to poo or empty a pouch in a car or on a fishing boat.
• Not having to squat behind a tree when camping.
• Having a built-in handwarmer.
• Not having to spend the whole day in the bathroom. One member reported that she used to spend so much time in there, she finished her education online and got a Masters degree!
• No more hemorrhoids.
• No more worries about passing gas in your sleep, when you’re not alone.
• Pooping during board meetings.
• The sweet revenge of being able to “vent” your bag to annoy siblings, particularly in a closed car with the windows rolled up.
• Saving money on toilet paper.
• Preparing for a colonoscopy (SO much easier with a bag!).
• My personal favourite: “I can answer emails, pay bills online, hold a conversation, and take a poo while waiting in the longest, slowest checkout lines.”