Lots of lucky days happening around these parts lately.

20-year wedding anniversary on August 7.

7-year stomaversary on August 8.

Today’s anniversary wouldn’t have happened without the first anniversary.

This morning as I was getting ready to leave for my annual mammogram, I was thinking about where I was 7 years ago and how lucky I am to be here today.

When I had my colon removed, I really did not fully understand the implications of this. I just knew I couldn’t keep going with the game of medication roulette. I needed something else. Yes, having my colon removed was my choice.

And while there are days when I struggle with my ileostomy. I do not ever regret having this surgery. Because I know it truly saved my life.

I know what it’s like to lose control of my body.
It’s awful. It’s scary. It’s humiliating. It’s depressing. It’s debilitating. It’s painful. It’s life-changing.

Having my colon removed saved my life.

And now, I have superpower. I have a constant 24/7 reminder to never take anything for granted.

I know that whatever is happening right now, I’ve been through much worse. And deep down I know how strong I can be.

I nicknamed my stoma “Reset”. Because it let me reset my life and get back to living.

I have ulcerative colitis, my small intestines stick out of my abdomen, I have a pouch stuck to my skin all day every day and forever, I have pain every single day, I can’t eat like most people – this is the opposite of fun.

But I’m alive. All thanks to my superpower hidden under my clothes, swimsuit, hockey equipment, and cycling kit.

How lucky am I?