Louise Thompson Shares Emotional Journey of Getting Stoma Bag Fitted
Former Made in Chelsea star Louise Thompson has bravely revealed that she has been fitted with a stoma bag following a long battle with ulcerative colitis. The 34-year-old reality TV personality took to Instagram on April 9th, 2024, to share her emotional journey and urge her followers to “be kind”.
Battling Ulcerative Colitis
Thompson, who was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2018, spent two weeks in the hospital due to losing blood from the condition while on a family holiday in Antigua.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.
The star has been open about her health struggles, having been in and out of hospitals since the traumatic birth of her son Leo two years ago, which left her with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
A Life-Saving Procedure
In her candid Instagram post, Thompson expressed her hope that her stoma would “represent a better life”. She acknowledged the stoma as “the price I pay for good health” and referred to it as a “life-saving” procedure.
A stoma is an opening on the abdomen that connects to the digestive or urinary system, allowing waste to be diverted out of the body and into a bag. It is a common treatment for people with severe ulcerative colitis when other treatments have failed.
Breaking the Stigma
Thompson’s decision to publicly share her experience has been praised by fans and fellow celebrities alike. By openly discussing her stoma bag, she hopes to break the stigma surrounding the procedure and raise awareness about invisible illnesses.
“Isn’t it bizarre that this little gray pouch is the price I pay for good health!” Thompson wrote in her Instagram post. She also bid farewell to her troublesome colon and urged her fans to “be kind”.
An Inspiration to Others
Thompson’s bravery in sharing her story has inspired others who are living with stomas or chronic illnesses. Her openness has been hailed as a step towards normalizing the conversation around these often-taboo topics.
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The star’s journey has also highlighted the importance of support and understanding for those living with invisible illnesses. As Thompson embarks on this new chapter in her life, she serves as a reminder that health challenges can affect anyone, and that there is no shame in seeking help or treatment
