I'm taking part in Step Up For Stomas - The 39 Challenge to raise funds for Colostomy UK, because every 39 minutes someone in the UK has stoma surgery. The funds you donate will help them to better support every one who needs them. 

I have a stoma myself - "Mona" - this was because for years I'd been battling with bowel issues then in 2020 I was diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative Colitis), which very nearly killed me after all treatment options for the disease failed & my bowel turned toxic. 

Its been a really difficult time for me over the past few years, but I can happily say Mona has given me the best quality of life I could ask for. I am now doing things I would never have done before for fear of being too unwell or needing the toilet. There are so many people who haven't ever heard of a stoma or even know what a stoma is, so I set up my Instagram platform in order to raise awareness & not make it so taboo. 

I've decided to sign up to this challenge and walk or workout for 39 minutes a day to show people that you can live a totally normal life while living with a stoma. 

Follow me over at my instagram page @princessbigbumlosetum to see what life with a stoma is like. 

Colostomy UK are a charity that support & empower those living with a stoma. They’re an advocate for ostomates’ rights & their voice on the bigger issues. They want hidden disabilities & conditions to be understood, recognised & accepted by all so that people can reach their potential.