Hi there
I just came across this community via Instagram and I joined instantly because I am really nervous about traveling abroad for the first time with a stoma. Here’s a little bit about me and the preparation I’ve done so far…
At 54 years old I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 3 back in August 2021 and after lots of treatment and 3 major high risk surgeries, I now have a stoma (colostomy) from August 2022.
Today, I’ll be flying to Europe for the first time since having a stoma.
I’ve got a letter from my stoma nurse listing all the supplies I need to take with me.
I’ve also got a tiny travel certificate for people traveling with a stoma - what it means, what happens if security want to search me, why I’ve got so much stuff with me etc
I’ve also purchased a ‘hidden disability’ sunflower lanyard which I will wear once I get to the airport
I spoke with the airline (BA) and they were great in that they said they will give me an aisle seat and make sure I’m near the toilets onboard the aircraft. BA have also directed me to a specific check in desk.
My biggest concern is whether airport security understands stomas and doesn’t treat me like a criminal. Could anyone please tell me if there is anything else I could or should be doing? My partner says I should call the airport and tell them in advance but I don’t even know who to call at Heathrow airport terminal 5.
I know it’s so last minute but any advice or reassurance would be greatly appreciated!
From a very nervous first time stoma traveler.
Hi Lulug75 and a warm welcome to the Online Community and I can totally understand your concerns about travelling but you have done the right thing in reaching out to a place where you can ask questions and getting support from others who are on the ‘exact’ same cancer journey.
The Community is actually divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our supportive Ovarian cancer and Ileostomy, colostomy and stoma support support group. This group is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the (Bold) Group Text Links I have created above. Once the group page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
The Macmillan Support Line is open from 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 where you can talk with someone about specific cancer and practical information, get emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just connect with a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
…..and have a great holiday.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
Hi Lulug75
I hope I can reassure you a little on this. I have 2 stomas-a colostomy and urostomy- and fly abroad regularly.
Airport staff in my experience are well versed in stomas and I have been treated respectfully and discreetly on every occasion. There isn’t any need to call in advance I have found. When you go through the security scanner it picks up the bag(s). The staff member will possibly ask what is there, and once you say you have a stoma will take you to a private room with a same sex member of staff to check. This for me has involved either being gently patted down or asked to show(briefly) my stoma bags by lifting my top slightly.
You will not be questioned in public or examined in public. Staff have told me they deal with these every day. I have travelled many times and never had an issue once. Sometimes my airline has provided an additional (free) medical baggage allowance on request, and my bags have never been searched other than to go through the normal scanning machine. I sometimes on longer trips do travel with a considerable amount of supplies to cope with 2 stomas but have never had a problem on both European and long haul flights.
I would recommend taking more supplies than you might typically think you need, in case of an upset tum etc. I hope you have a lovely trip and please try not to be concerned about the journey.
Sarah xx
Hi Lulug75
I was extremely nervous the first time I flew, but honestly have grown in confidence with every flight since. I always have an aisle seat near a loo, and can successfully change my colostomy bag in the loo! It’s natural to be nervous when you do something new, but for me the worry was unfounded and it really was very straightforward. I always had the mindset of not letting my stomas dictate what I could do,and I love to travel. I hope you’ll also find it straightforward and it will give you the confidence to make this the first of many trips.
Sarah xx
You know what?? It would serve them right if they strip searched me. I would put on a show like they’ve never seen!!
Just for kicks I might show them a little something from my stomach bag
This is excellent news Lulug75 !
I took a letter the first time I flew but no-one looked at it so I haven’t bothered since.
I’m so glad things were easier than you thought and hope you can relax and enjoy your trip away.
Sarah xx
I have apologised in the past for making the poor staff look at a bag of urine, but they were fine about it!
Sarah xx
