Finding a Balance

Hey everyone!

I feel like I want to talk about how I’m feeling right now and that is... exhausted!

Life has been crazy busy lately and I sometimes feel a bit of pressure to try and fit everything in all at once. I think this is because I feel that having UC (Ulcerative Colitis) and being in hospital all the time has stolen so much time from me and now, I don’t want to ever feel like I’m missing out.

I find that since my ileostomy surgery at 17 years old, I get run down pretty quickly. Now, I know I’m not 17 anymore, but at 32 I like to think I’m still a spring chicken and would prefer to have a bit more energy, but it’s all part of having a long-term health condition, I guess!

As much as I want to do and see everything, I’m learning (slowly) that it’s okay to say no to certain things, to allow my body to rest. I’m a home body, I love my own space and being on my own but the minute someone wants to make plans with me, I struggle to say no!

The last few months have consisted of some fun and memorable times with friends and family.

First up, my sister's wedding, followed by jumping on a train to London the next morning for a concert returning home in the early hours of the morning only to then head straight to work, being “people facing” all day.

The next weekend I was back in London, attending four more concerts (yep, you guessed, I love a concert) as well as catching up with old friends, then heading home to climb a mountain... Yes, A MOUNTAIN. Last year, I climbed Snowdon, and this year was Scafell Pike.

To say I like to do it all, would be a bit of an understatement! I try to do as many social activities as I can while juggling a full- time job, fitness and keep my home life ticking over. I love it, but I do have to remind myself to SLOW DOWN!

Anyone that says you can’t do anything after stoma surgery is SO wrong, I really do feel like my life began after my surgery! I would say I’m more active now than I have ever been. I’m more confident since having my ileostomy bag, I’m not in pain anymore and I can manage my output pretty well.

I remember when I had my ileostomy surgery, I genuinely thought my life was over. I had this idea that all I would be able to do was sit at home and watch everyone else have fun, but no, I’m right there with them.

While trying to enjoy everything life has to offer, it’s important to find the balance, to know when to listen to your body and allow yourself to rest. When I’m feeling rundown, I force myself to say no to plans, I try to eat well, stay hydrated and relax.

What I’m trying to say is, you really can do anything, or nothing! You are in control of yourself and what you do. You are so much more than the bag on your stomach. YOU ARE INCREDIBLE.

Here’s to the last few months of 2022, let’s smash it together!

Love you all!

Nathan x