What I Feel Beautiful In
As a subscriber to the Secure Start eNewsletter, Sandy Buday reached out to us with what makes her feel beautiful. She belongs to the Clearwater, Florida Ostomy Support Group and is a regular on the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) discussion page. Sandy loves being a role model to others—and wanted to share her story with other women in the ostomy community. Enjoy!
When it comes to fashion, my mantra is “No matter what happens with your body, you have to love it for what it is.” I am 69 years old and even after having lupus, an ileostomy and my rectum removed, I make sure to love my body and wear the clothing and accessories that make me feel beautiful. Every day I look in my closet and decide what I’ll feel good in, whether I’m going to the gym or a social affair at church.
My ostomy is just part of me and makes life so much easier. Since the surgery, my husband Paul and I have gone on several cruises including one to Alaska and a three-week adventure to Hawaii, Australia, Tahiti and the Fiji Islands. I love dressing to the nines for the Captain’s Dinner or wearing my capris for sightseeing.
Once you learn what you’re comfortable in, you can go anywhere and not feel conspicuous because of your ostomy. I work out at Curves three times a week and everybody there knows I have an ostomy. Why hide it? It’s who I am and there’s nothing to be ashamed of.
What I tell people is “If you look good, you’ll feel good about yourself.” And isn’t that what life is all about?
Sandy’s advice for feeling beautiful:
Longer lines and animal prints mask any slight bulge from your appliance.
Always emphasize your best assets! If you have beautiful shoulders, draw the eye to them with a strapless top.
Use longer scarves to cover any sign of your appliance.
Uninterrupted lines in darker colors are a slimming option for any body type.
Financial Disclosure: Sandy Buday received compensation from Hollister Incorporated for her contribution to this eNewsletter.
