Living with a Stoma – A Patient’s Journey, from Nicola Marzolini.

On 15^th April we welcomed Nicola Marzolini of Ostofriends (the patient) and Nurse Breege (our local Stoma Nurse) to talk about life with a stoma. The talk was one of a series of health talks arranged by the Friends of Parkfield PPG for which Potters Bar URC is proud to host.

Nicola took us through the bowel conditions that could lead to the need for a stoma and  the types of stoma. She showed us pictures of stoma and had on hand examples of the various appliances that  a stoma patient might use.

Then she talked about some of the issues that can follow stoma formation, the role of the Community Stoma Nurse and the range of support available, including the local Ostofriends support group.

Then she talked about her own experiences.

 It was a very personal talk by someone whose life changed in 2022 when a life-threatening condition led to an operation resulting in the need for a stoma. So full of life, optimism, and a desire to help others on their stoma journeys, Nicola informed, entertained and provided reassurance to her audience, some of whom were fellow patients but also for those for whom it was new ground.

Weare most grateful to Nicola and to Breege for taking to time to talk to us.