Sharing Life With an Ileostomy on Social Media
Jake is an energetic, positive young man who has turned his ileostomy surgery into a story of strength and resilience. Passionate about football, travel, and connecting with others, he shares his journey on social media to show that life with an ostomy can be active, joyful, and full of new opportunities.
Read about Jake’s experience with an ileostomy, and how he inspires others to embrace change.
Jake, who lives in the UK, was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2018. After trying various medications and showing no improvement, he had surgery to create an ileostomy in 2024. It was a major turning point in his life. Jake admits that the first few weeks were challenging. “Initially, I was in shock and I felt like my world had flipped upside down,” he explains. “I kept thinking, how will I live like this?” But then Jake realised that it wasn’t the end; it was actually a new beginning. “Having an ileostomy hasn’t held me back,” he says. “It’s opened possibilities I never imagined.”
Regaining confidence and getting his life back
Instead of focusing on what he couldn’t do, Jake started thinking about what he could do. Slowly, he got his confidence back. “I returned to the football field,” Jake shares proudly. “That was something I thought I’d never do again.”
Getting back into sport was just the beginning. Jake started socialising with friends again, enjoying nights out and laughing like old times. He even booked his first holiday since his surgery, a trip to Spain where he soaked up the sun and felt free for the first time in years. “It felt incredible to be on the beach, just living life,” he said. “I realized that my stoma doesn’t stop me from doing anything.”
Helping others – and helping himself
Social media became Jake’s safe space. He began posting videos on TikTok about life with a stoma, showing the realities along with the positives. And he started getting a lot of positive feedback. “It was amazing to know that my experience could help others,” Jake says. “The messages from people who find my journey inspiring make it all worthwhile.” Giving back to the community is important to him. “I want people to see that life doesn’t end after ostomy surgery,” Jake explains. “If my story gives someone hope, then it’s worth sharing.”
Posting also has direct benefits for Jake. It allows him to connect with others who understand what he is going through. “It makes me feel less alone,” he says. “There’s comfort in knowing that someone else gets it.”
Educating people about life with an ostomy
Jake’s openness sparked conversations in his community. Friends and family began to understand what an ostomy is and why some people need one. One friend even found the courage to have ileostomy surgery after learning about Jake’s journey. “Now, we meet up every month to share experiences – both the good and the challenging parts,” Jake says. “It’s amazing to have that support.” And Jake isn’t stopping there. He’s planning a charity football match with his friend, and wants to start a video podcast about life before and after ostomy surgery.
“Having an ileostomy has given me my life back after seven challenging years,” says Jake, “And I’m forever grateful,” His message to anyone facing surgery is simple: “Having an ostomy is not the end...it’s a fresh start. Embrace the support around you and don’t hesitate to reach out.”
People who provided testimonials received compensation from Hollister Incorporated. The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented are applicable to the people depicted. These testimonials are representative of their experience, but the exact results and experience will be unique and individual to each person.
