My name is Lori from Mission, BC. In 2017, I was diagnosed with severe Ulcerative Colitis. My GI specialist in Vancouver tried so hard to save my colon with different biologic IV infusions. We gave it a year, but it was decided to remove my colon along with the appendix in 2018. A long 5-hour surgery took place at St. Paul’s that literally saved my life.

About 3 months later, my anus and rectum were removed due to the high probability of Cancer. I never wore any sort of hernia support as I found them uncomfortable. I noticed a large parastomal hernia form. Fast forward to February 8/9, 2026, I woke in the night vomiting and unable to walk as my entire body cramped up from dehydration. My husband got me to Mission Memorial, where a CT scan revealed they were not equipped for what showed up.

I was transported via ambulance to Abbotsford Hospital and underwent two major surgeries. The parastomal hernia twisted and strangled my Ileostomy and most of my bowel. My team of surgeons moved my Ileostomy from the right side to my left and sutured down the hernia, as they are very difficult to remove due to all the blood vessels.

Unfortunately, they had to remove most of my bowel, which has left me with short bowel syndrome (SBS); only 200cm remains. Recovery has been very slow and difficult, but with all the support from my family and medical team, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Until I saw a particular hernia support belt through Nightingale Medical Supplies, I didn’t think it was possible to find one so comfortable that I could wear it all day. The moral of my story is never give up if you are going through this, and research what products are best for you. I wish everyone good health and pay attention to your body.

*Stock photography used for privacy purposes.

Hernia Support Belt Mentioned in This Story:

Corsinel Ostomy Hernia Support Belt