In our 12 ways of Christmas you’ll see great advice about everything from stocking up on supplies to eating and drinking. If you’ve got kids who’ve got stomas, you’ll find tips on how to prepare for Christmas day. You’ll also find our Accessories Wish List, featuring our most popular stoma accessories. And we’ve got two Stoma Stories to inspire you.
12 ways of Christmas
The countdown to the big day has begun. To help you prepare, we’ve put together our 12 ways of Christmas. Share your tips on our social media channels using the hashtag #StomaXmas.
1. Stocking up
Now’s the time to order more stoma products if you haven’t already done so.
2. Get wrapping and packing
Make a checklist of everything you need to pack or better still, pack an overnight bag now.
3. Eat, drink and be moderate.
Avoid the risk of bloating or even a blockage by enjoying your favourite food in moderation.
4. It’s all about the bubbles
And not just the ones we mix in. Remember champagne, bucks fizz and soft drinks can cause ballooning and indigestion.
5. Add Accessories to your wish list
The Christmas break is a great time to give stoma accessories a try. If you’ve got an ileostomy, give Diamonds™ Gelling Sachets a go – just pop one in your stoma bag to thicken your output.
6. Beware of what’s hidden in the pudding
We’re not talking of a silver sixpence, but loads of currants, sultanas and nuts which need to be chewed properly.
7. Swap Quality Street for marshmallows
Many people with an ileostomy find that marshmallows are a great way to quickly thicken output.
8. Enjoy it
Remember, Christmas is fun! Have a great time and don’t forget to share your experience with the community.
9. Plan your Christmas Diet now
From a vegetable overload to rich, spicy foods, the Christmas menu is packed full of windy foods! Many people find they can enjoy these foods in moderation. And remember, if you’re at someone else’s house, it’s not rude to refuse.
10. Don’t expect the Santa Express…
If you’re going anywhere by public transport, there’s likely to be a limited service. So it’s a good idea to keep a supply of bags and supplies easily to hand, just in case.
11. Stay hydrated
It’s tempting to hope that all that bucks fizz and egg nog is keeping you hydrated, but in reality the opposite is more likely to be true. Alcohol is a diuretic. Particularly if you have an ileostomy, remember to keep a supply of dehydration tablets.
12. Take it easy on Boxing Day
Christmas day can be hugely fun and massively tiring. So take it easy on Boxing Day.
Let’s make it all about stockings not bags…
We all want our kids to wake up on Christmas morning (not too early!) thinking about their stockings not their bags. Best of all, there are things we can do as parents to help.
Plan ahead
You’ve already got so many things to think about, so it’s a good idea to make a checklist. Have you got enough supplies? If you’re going away, have you packed a bag?
Eat ahead
It can be a good idea to give your child bland food a day or so before Christmas, to compensate for any overload on the day.
Sleep easy on Christmas Eve
You’re likely to already have your own bedtime routine. If so, just try bringing it forward so you’re not rushed. Remember, to avoid the risk of leakages, avoid eating too close to bedtime and make sure the bag is completely empty.
Wrap the mattress in a plastic sheet
If you’re not already doing so, get wrapping! A plastic sheet is easy to clean, avoiding any unnecessary upset.