In this heartwarming episode of The Bowel Chronicles, we meet 8-year-old Katie from Leeds, along with her amazing mum, Kelly. Katie has faced a tough journey since birth, living with chronic idiopathic refractory constipation, slow colon transit, and GI dysmotility. But in April 2024, her life changed after undergoing colostomy surgery.

Katie shares her inspiring journey from struggling with everyday activities to regaining her quality of life. Now, she’s back to enjoying school, outings, and even concerts! She also opens up about important issues like disabled toilets and facing discrimination.

Joining her, mum Kelly talks about making the life-changing decision for Katie’s surgery and how it has given her little girl the chance to thrive.

This episode offers a unique perspective on living with a chronic bowel condition through the eyes of a child and the courage of a parent. Don’t miss this powerful story of resilience and hope.

Guest: Katie Thirling

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/katies.stoma.journey?igsh=ajk5OGc2M2JwcGU1

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with the inspiring Rachel, known as @gutsy.mum on social media. 

A 35-year-old mother of two, Rachel has lived with Hirschsprung’s disease her entire life and has undergone stoma surgery twice. But her journey doesn’t end there—both of her young boys have also been diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease and are living with stomas.

Just seven months postpartum, Rachel shares the raw and emotional story of what it’s like to navigate motherhood while managing her own health challenges. From advocating for herself to fiercely protecting and caring for her two little ostomates, Rachel’s journey is one of resilience, strength, and unwavering hope.

Tune in to hear her candid perspective on living with a chronic condition, parenting through medical challenges, and using her platform to bring awareness and support to others walking similar paths. You won’t want to miss this powerful story of courage, community, and positivity.

Guest: Rachel Allen

https://www.instagram.com/gutsy.mum?igsh=ejZtNXpoZnVoZWJ1

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with the beautiful and resilient Catriona from Inverness, Scotland. 

Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2020 after a difficult hospitalization, Catriona has spent the last four years navigating treatments, including biologics. 

Now in remission and thriving, she shares her journey of finding balance as a mother of two young children, while learning to prioritize her health to be the best version of herself. 

Catriona speaks candidly about living with a chronic illness, her fears of potential surgery, and how she uses her voice online to inspire others facing similar challenges. 

Tune in to hear her powerful story of resilience, hope, and paying it forward.

Guest: Catriona Millar 

https://www.instagram.com/colitiswithcatriona?igsh=MXNsbHU4NXZubzUwZw==

In this powerful and authentic episode, we meet Gethin Owen, who has bravely battled Crohn's disease for over 15 years. After undergoing emergency surgery for a fistula in Feb ‘24 he tells us how he woke up with a colostomy. 

Gethin shares his raw and inspiring journey through life post-surgery. From his Crohn’s diagnosis to living with a stoma, mental health struggles, and overcoming addiction, Gethin opens up about the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his life. 

Tune in to hear how fitness, music, sports, and volunteering with people facing addiction have helped him rebuild and thrive. You won't want to miss this deeply moving conversation with Gethin—an inspiring reminder that resilience can shine through even the toughest of times.

Guest: Gethin Owen

https://www.instagram.com/stomaboy75?igsh=NTV1cDZpMWZoZndo

In this episode of The Bowel Chronicles, I sit down with the inspiring Sophie Kirk, known on social media as @monastoma_and_me 

Sophie was diagnosed with Serrated Polyposis Syndrome, a pre-cancerous condition of the colon followed by Inflammatory Bowel Disease. 

After years of struggle, she underwent emergency life-changing stoma surgery, including an ileostomy and proctectomy. 

Today, Sophie is thriving as a fully active mum and a passionate advocate for those with ostomies and IBD. 

Tune in to hear her uplifting story of transformation, acceptance, and how she uses her platform to raise awareness and empower others.

Guest: Sophie Kirk

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/monastoma_and_me?igsh=ejhudWhicnNxZWxm

Tik tok

https://www.tiktok.com/@monastoma_and_me?_t=8pTS3JWnVWC&_r=1

In this vibrant episode of The Bowel Chronicles, we chat with the inspiring Karen McGuinness, a social media sensation known for her lively street busking TikToks and reels. 

With 12 years of experience living with a colostomy bag after an emergency hysterectomy, Karen has become a passionate advocate for ostomy awareness and self-love. As a brand ambassador and model for ostomy brands—and even bridal wear—Karen shares her journey through the highs and lows of stoma life.

Join us as Karen discusses how she stays active with spin classes, cold water swimming, and much more, all while navigating life with a stoma. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love and resilience. 

Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired and encouraged to embrace life’s challenges with confidence and joy. Don’t miss Karen’s empowering message on The Bowel Chronicles!

Guest: Karen McGuinness

Tik Tok

https://www.tiktok.com/@kazmcgoocharitybusker?_t=8pHBN8gwx4j&_r=1

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/share/Frr5sufDVFDuUiXW/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/kaz_mcgoo72?igsh=MnV1M2Zmbjd5NWl4

In this powerful episode of The Bowel Chronicles, we sit down with Tom Wilding, a graphic designer and social media influencer known as @intestinesareoverrated who has been living with Crohn’s disease for over 16 years. 

Tom shares his remarkable journey through countless treatments, biologics, immunosuppressants, and steroids, leading to a life-changing subtotal colectomy. He opens up about the challenges of living with a stoma and his mission to encourage more men to speak openly about their IBD experiences.

Join us as Tom blends humor with honesty, using his creative talents to bring light to the realities of stoma life. From memes to horror movies, baking, and sci-fi, Tom’s story is a testament to resilience and finding joy in the face of adversity. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insight, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way. Don’t miss this chance to be inspired by Tom’s courage and passion for helping others.

Guest: Tom Wilding

https://www.instagram.com/intestinesareoverrated?igsh=czMxNTQwOGR1eWVz

In this episode of The Bowel Chronicles, I sit down with Mike, aka @bagforlife.mike a software developer and fitness enthusiast who has turned a life-changing diagnosis into a story of resilience and triumph. 

Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 18 and undergoing a procto-colectomy ileostomy surgery at 24, Mike now lives life to the fullest, embracing fitness, travel, and even completing Europe's toughest mudder challenges. 

Join us as Mike shares how he found a new zest for life post-surgery, proving that even with a stoma, the world of fitness and adventure is still within reach. 

This is a conversation you won't want to miss—tune in for inspiration, motivation, and a reminder that no challenge is too great to overcome. 

Don’t forget to give Mike a follow to keep up with his incredible journey!

Guest: Mike Dyer

https://www.instagram.com/bagforlife.mike?igsh=MW50OTFleWI1ZWg1cA==

Ileostomy Association UK

https://iasupport.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Ant, also known as IBDlife on social media—a 34-year-old fitness enthusiast, passionate cook, and dedicated advocate for ostomates. Ant’s journey began at 18 when he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis after a challenging start to university life. 

Despite trying numerous treatments, nothing seemed to work until he underwent a life-changing ileostomy surgery at 30. 

Now, Ant is thriving, saying yes to life, setting ambitious goals, and inspiring others with his newfound energy and zest for life. 

Join us as we explore his incredible story of resilience, personal growth, and the power of a positive mindset. 

Don’t miss this chance to be inspired and learn how to turn adversity into opportunity.

Guest: Ant Andrew’s (IBD Life)

https://www.instagram.com/ibdlife?igsh=MXRkdHZ6dHB0aGM1dA==

In this inspiring episode, we meet the incredible Tayler from Oregon, USA. Just 10 weeks ago, Tayler underwent permanent ileostomy surgery, and today she bravely shares her story with us. 

Diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Tayler faced a paralyzed large bowel, leading to severe abdominal pain from a very young age without any clear answers. 

Tune in as Tayler recounts her journey of finally discovering the need for bowel surgery and the remarkable improvements in her quality of life since. Her resilience and positivity offer hope and encouragement to anyone facing similar challenges. 

Don't miss this heartfelt conversation filled with strength, determination, and the power of transformation.

Guest: Tayler Goectau

https://www.instagram.com/distaaybled?igsh=NW9tNGV2cDlrNTgz

https://www.instagram.com/omybagsofficial?igsh=emx3bG1mYjVqYXFs