By Nadia Maffucci Di Rienzo, Ostomy Canada Ambassador

Confidence with an ostomy is not something that happens all at once. It is something that grows over time, shaped by experience, self acceptance, and the willingness to try even when it feels uncomfortable. For many of us, certain seasons bring unique challenges. Summer is one of them.

Warmer weather often means more skin, more social events, and more situations that can
trigger self consciousness. Whether it is swimming, wearing lighter clothing, or simply being out of routine, it can feel like your ostomy is suddenly more visible. The truth is, confidence is not about never feeling those worries. It is about learning how to move forward despite them.

Encouraging Youth to Take Ownership

As someone who lived with IBD for many years before getting my ostomy at 40, I can relate to
what it feels like to navigate chronic illness during the teenage years. Even without an ostomy at that stage, there can be a tendency to avoid fully engaging in care, whether that is out of fear, frustration, or simply wanting to feel like everyone else.

That experience has shaped how I think about young people who do have an ostomy. Learning to take ownership of care is not always easy, but it is incredibly empowering over time.

It does not have to happen all at once. It can start with small steps such as helping to gather supplies, participating in certain parts of the process, asking questions, and gradually building confidence in managing independently.

For parents and caregivers, patience and encouragement are key. Creating a space where questions are welcomed and mistakes are part of the learning process helps build both skill and confidence. Independence grows when young people feel supported rather than pressured.

Life Has No Limits

Living with an ostomy can feel like a limitation at first. There is a learning curve, both physically and emotionally. But over time, it can become clear that many of those perceived limits are not as fixed as they once seemed.

After decades of living with IBD, there were things I had quietly accepted I might never fully enjoy or do without worry. The reality is that my ostomy has, in many ways, given me a sense of freedom I did not have before. It has allowed me to participate in life more fully, with less unpredictability and more confidence in my body.

That does not mean every day is easy. There are still challenges, and there are still moments of doubt. But there is also a renewed sense of possibility.

Confidence is built through action. It grows when you say yes to trying something new, when you show up even with uncertainty, and when you take time to acknowledge how far you have already come.

A Final Reflection

Whether you are a young person learning to care for your ostomy or an adult stepping into new experiences, your journey is valid. There is no single way to feel confident, and there is no timeline you need to follow.

Start where you are. Take small steps. Celebrate progress. And remind yourself often that life is still yours to experience fully.

You are capable of more than you think.

Disclaimer: The information shared by Ostomy Canada Society is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every person’s ostomy experience is unique. Please consult your health care provider with any questions about your condition, care, or treatment plan.