Journal

Living with a stoma stories. This journal is a living record of recovery.

This is a space for honest reflection on training, healing, setbacks, progress, and the realities of rebuilding life after surgery. Some entries are practical. Others are personal. All are written in real time, without polish or performance.

The purpose of this journal is not instruction, comparison, or motivation. It’s transparency. and this space exists to reflect that truth openly and without judgement.

You may find reassurance here. You may find perspective. You may recognise your own experience in the words. Or you may simply find comfort in knowing that you’re not navigating this path alone.

Entries are dated and shared as they arise. There is no schedule. No expectation. Just an honest account of learning to live, move, and rebuild strength with patience and respect.

Latest Journal Entries

Day 152 of 365. Monday 1st June. Workout 149 of 2026. Day 234 Post Haartmans Surgery

Today was a transition day. After yesterday’s food-filled adventure around Utrecht, I woke up carrying what can only be described

June 1, 2026

Day 151 of 365. Sunday 31st May. Workout 147 of 2026. Day 231 Post Hartmann’s Surgery.

Utrecht Last night’s metrics painted a picture of significant fatigue. Just 4 hours and 38 minutes of sleep, a 22%

May 31, 2026

Day 149 of 365. Friday 29th May. Workout 145 of 2026. Day 229 Post Hartmann’s Surgery

Today was a reminder that recovery can still feel productive, meaningful, and deeply enjoyable when approached with intention. I woke

May 29, 2026

Day 117 of 365 – Monday 27th April

Workout 113 of 2026. Day 198 Post Hartmann’s Surgery Today was a really solid session, especially considering where my body

April 30, 2026

Day 116 of 365 – Sunday 26th April – Ben Vorlich

Workout 112 of 2026. Day 197 Post Hartmann’s Surgery It was a big day today. Today was my first Munro

April 30, 2026

Day 185 Post Hartmann’s Surgery

Day 104 of 365 Tuesday 13th April. Workout 101 of 2026 Today was a milestone day first big hike post-surgery,

April 14, 2026

Disclaimer

The information shared here is intended to support understanding, reflection, and confidence during recovery. It is based on lived experience and general principles, not individual diagnosis or medical advice.

Every recovery is different. Bodies heal at different rates, and circumstances vary. Use what you find here as guidance rather than instruction, and always listen to your own body and the advice of your medical or healthcare team.

If something doesn’t feel right, pause. Rest is not failure, and moving more slowly is still moving forward.

This site exists to support your judgement not replace it.

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