Amy teacher and recreation enthusiast

Hi, my name is Amy Nichols and I love my life with my ileostomy. About 30 years ago, I was so sick with ulcerative colitis and my quality of life was really compromised. I needed to be near a bathroom, had accidents while trying to make it to the bathroom. Felt like I was living in the bathroom, and the cramps and weight loss, difficulty eating and sleeping.

You know, basically my ability to just function was so limited. Prior to this, I was healthy, physically fit and active, and teaching full-time, getting, getting an ileostomy was necessary. Since my doctor was concerned without the intestinal damage and bleeding, the high probability of cancer, and the fact that I wasn't responding to the medication, while it took time to accept and adjust to the ostomy, physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally, it was the best decision I ever made. My life today is so good and I'm grateful for each day.

I work full-time and I'm a lifelong athlete, still running 20, 25 miles a week, biking, hiking, traveling, basically doing whatever I want with no limits or restrictions. Okay? I may have to adjust my clothing at times and limit certain foods, but soa, I have my life back. Now.

I have my life forward. I don't wanna go back to feeling so awful. Live your best life. I couldn't do that when I was sick, but I am now.

And if that means having an ileostomy, I'm here to give you hope and support.