Hi my name is Emma, I am 31 years old and I am doing the step up challenge for colostomy uk. It is the 160,000 steps challenge. Why 160,000 steps you ask, well its because there are est 160,000 people who have a stoma in the UK alone.

Colostomy uk helped me in my time of need. I had sepsis in 2012 just after I finished university, I nearly died from this infection. I had numerous surgeries and interventions over the years. I eventually got to the point I had severe faecal leakage, I couldn't control my bowels and I was unable to move without bleeding and pain. I was contemplating suicide on a daily basis.

My surgeons had said there was nothing else they can do and I would have to be this way for the rest of my life. Thanks to colostomy uk I had read up on stomas and how a person lives day to day. I decided with my consultant I needed to regain the life I lost.

I had a loop colostomy ( of which this is seen as temporary but mine is permenant) on 13th November 2020. since then I havnt looked back, I have felt I have got my life back. but now it's learning how to walk through life again and it's a massive learning curve. I am a registered nurse and for me to be able to get back to my patients and the work I love is great.

If it wasn't for colostomy uk helping me and advising me and also the massive support the volunteers have shown me over the years I doubt I would be here today.

Colostomy uk is a life line for people who need it, whether it's support in terms of how stomas a used or support in understanding a stoma after emergency surgery. colostomy uk is always there all the way and they need support more than ever.

So please give what you can even if its a little no matter as all money goes to good use.

please help others who need colostomy uk today 

Thankyou 

Colostomy UK is a national charity that offers support and advice to people with stomas and to their families, carers and friends. Colostomy UK also campaigns and acts as advocates for ostomates on the many issues they face going about their daily lives. We want hidden conditions to be understood and accepted by all. Our vision is of communities in which everyone is empowered to reach their potential.