Living Well with an Ostomy (Paperback)

by Elizabeth Rayson (Author) "Ostomy surgery is a type of surgery that's needed by those who don't have normal bladder or bowel function because of disease (such as inflammatory..." (more)
Key Phrases: ostomy surgery, ostomy suppliers, pouching system, United Ostomy Association of Canada Inc (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
If you've been told you are going to need an ostomy, you are about to make some dramatic changes in your life. And while there is no doubt that getting an ostomy is a life-changing experience, it doesn't have to define your life. In Living Well with an Ostomy, Elizabeth Rayson explains that, ultimately, your ostomy is only a small part of the essential person that is you. And that essential person hasn't changed or become less active, adventurous, stylish or romantic just because she or he now has an ostomy. On the contrary, many people who've had ostomy surgery will tell you that their surgery marked the start of a new, more expansive phase in their lives.

This comprehensive and easy-to-understand guide covers the practical aspects of ostomy care. You will also learn how to cope with the significant changes to your body that affect everything from traveling, dressing, playing sports, eating favorite foods and enjoying romantic and sexual relationships. And you will also easily relate to the personal narratives throughout that illuminate many of the challenges people with ostomies face.

Living Well with an Ostomy covers basic information about the various types of ostomies, what to expect from ostomy surgery, as well as psycho/social issues that may surface as a result of ostomy surgery, including those unique to certain groups, such as children, young adults and seniors. The book also includes new information on homeopathic and natural remedies for dealing with the ongoing care of an ostomy, and a substantial Resources section that contains a host of references to additional sources.

About the Author
Elizabeth Rayson has an MA in professional writing from the University of Waterloo. After working for several years as a technical writer, she decided to pursue her passion for consumer health writing and alternative approaches to health and healing. Now, in addition to her work as a writer, Rayson also teaches yoga and runs a small aromatherapy business. She currently lives in Toronto, Canada.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 178 pages
• Publisher: Your Health Press; 1 edition (July 6, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1412000815
• ISBN-13: 978-1412000819
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #94,056 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A NEW OSTOMATE'S BIBLE!, December 7, 2004

By	J.M. (Canada) - See all my reviews

This book packs a lot of information for us new ostomates. I bought it when it was recommended in one of the newsletters I subscribe to. Not only does it have everything a new ostomate needs to know, but it discusses some of the more embarrassing daily life issues. The chapter on sex with an ostomy is so helpful and necessary. The author also shares other ostomates' stories and struggles, which I haven't seen in other books, either. Plus, there is really good information about complimentary/natural products for ostomates. A must have for anyone coping with a new ostomy.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tackles all the Taboo, November 8, 2004

By	JKW - See all my reviews

I recently had ostomy surgery because of my worsening bowel disease. The surgery has done wonders for my illness -- I haven't felt better in years. But having an ostomy is taking some getting used to. Of all the books on ostomy, I found this ostomy book by Elizabeth Rayson really helpful. It's written very clearly and addresses a lot of issues I'm facing as well as helping me with practical day-to-day care. This book tackles some unique topics you can't find in other books, such as sexual issues. Let's face it, partners can get freaked out once you tell them bout your ostomy. Elizabeth Rayson approaches the subject of sex and ostomy in a sensitive and understanding way. One point that really hit home was when she writes that if someone rejects you because of an ostomy, they weren't worth it anyway. Lots of wise words are bundled into this book.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great resource, May 5, 2006

By	Quebecreader (Montreal, Canada) - See all my reviews

I purchased this book for my boyfriend who now has an ostomy because I heard it recommended on a webcast where a doctor with an ostomy himself and an ostomy nurse talk about this condition. The book was highly recommended. The webcast can be found at yourhealthpress.com website and this book is apparently the only book that talks about relationships and ostomy. It was very useful for both me and my boyfriend.