By Nadia Maffucci Di Rienzo, Ostomy Canada Ambassador
Life with an ostomy does not pause when the alarm clock goes off. Kids still need lunches packed, work still demands focus, and the to do list never seems to end. For me, living with an ostomy has meant learning how to balance caregiving, work, and self care, sometimes imperfectly and always honestly.
What I have learned along the way is that balance does not mean doing everything flawlessly. It means creating systems that support you, giving yourself grace, and knowing that confidence grows with practice.
A Day in the Life: Juggling It All
Most days start early. Before anyone else is awake, I check in with my body. I notice how I am feeling physically, how my energy levels are shaping up, and whether my ostomy needs attention before the day begins. That quiet moment is grounding and helps prevent surprises later.
From there, it is the familiar rush of getting kids ready, transitioning into work mode, answering emails, attending meetings, and fitting in personal care where I can. Living with an ostomy adds extra steps to the day, but over time those steps become routine rather than disruptive.
I have learned that planning ahead reduces stress. I keep my supplies organized and accessible, and I try to build small buffers into my schedule. Even ten extra minutes can make a meaningful difference when your body needs it.
Check out Nadia’s heartfelt Mother’s Day post on Instagram!
Meal Planning for Real Life
Feeding a family while managing an ostomy can feel overwhelming, especially on busy weekdays when I work at the office. I have found that simple, reliable meals are key rather than elaborate recipes that require a lot of prep or specialty ingredients.
Meal planning does not have to be fancy. I focus on foods I know work well for my body and that my family enjoys. Repeatable breakfasts, flexible dinners, and ingredients that can be used in more than one way make everyday life easier.
Having a few dependable go-to meals reduces decision fatigue and helps keep output more predictable. That matters when your days are already full and unpredictable.
Managing Fatigue and Staying Organized
Fatigue is something many ostomates live with, and when you add parenting and work into the mix, it becomes even more important to respect your limits.
I rely heavily on organization, not as a personality trait but as a practical tool. Calendars, reminders, supply checklists, and set routines help reduce the mental load. When things are written down or prepacked, there is less to remember on days when energy is low.
Rest is not a reward. It is a requirement. I have had to let go of the idea that I need to do everything myself or do it all at once. Asking for help and pacing myself has been one of the most important lessons.
Leaving the House Prepared
Leaving the house with kids means planning for everyone, not just yourself. I keep a small ostomy kit ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Extra supplies live in my bag, my car, and other places where I regularly spend time.
Preparation brings peace of mind. Knowing I am ready for the unexpected allows me to be more present with my kids instead of worrying about what might happen. Over time, packing supplies becomes as routine as bringing snacks or wipes. It is simply part of life.
Growing Confidence Over Time
Confidence did not appear overnight. It built slowly through trial and error, through hard days, and through small wins. What has helped most is changing how I see myself. I am not managing life despite an ostomy. I am living fully with one.
Sharing honestly, including through my Instagram account @gutsygirldiaries, has reminded me that none of us are alone. There is strength in visibility and comfort in knowing others understand.
Life as a busy mom with an ostomy is not about perfection. It is about adaptability, resilience, and showing up even on the messy days. If there is one thing I hope others take away, it is this. You are doing better than you think.
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Nadia Maffucci Di Rienzo is a source of inspiration, advocating for those with invisible illnesses and bringing hope to many. Despite battling Ulcerative Colitis since 1997 and, more recently, colorectal cancer, Nadia’s resilience shines. After her total proctocolectomy in January 2023, she has bravely embraced life with a permanent ileostomy. Nadia shares her journey on her blog, Gutsy Girl Diaries, and Instagram, chronicling her experiences with IBD and cancer and her new life with an ostomy.
As the inaugural Ostomy Canada Ambassador, Nadia aims to destigmatize invisible illnesses and disabilities. Her story is not just about survival but thriving, proving life with chronic conditions can be purposeful and positive. Through her empowering spirit and uplifting message, Nadia inspires others to embrace life fully, despite challenges.
Visit Nadia’s website Gutsy Girl Diaries, or follow her on social media!