There are some things that are easy to take for granted until a health issue changes everything. Most people can think of at least one time in their lives that a simple task became a struggle.

What if using the restroom was no longer something that could be taken for granted? Many people address this concern when they require ostomy care.

“It can affect anybody,” said Michelle Harris, Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital's (SNMH) Wound Healing Center manager.

An ostomy is when an individual has a problem with their bowel or bladder. Many people, for example, develop blockages in their colon.

A stoma is created, a cut through the bowel that brings a section out through the stomach to produce stool. This is referred to as a colostomy. Another reason a stoma may be needed is if a person has bladder cancer and the bladder has to be removed. The same thing is done so that the body can rid itself of urine. This procedure is called a urostomy. A pouch is connected to gather waste for hygiene and to reduce the risk of infection.

Harris said that the Wound Healing Center is available to measure and fit appliances for a patient that has a stoma so that he or she can have the best quality of life available.

Before the procedure, patients come into the center so that the most comfortable area can be located for the stoma. Once the procedure has occurred, the correct pouches will be chosen. There are pouches for all types of people — those with active lifestyles, even ones with cartoon characters for children.

“We offer (the patient) medical support and offer emotional support,” Harris said.

The center helps the patient get comfortable with his or her body again. They also give patients a list of resources which includes an ostomy support group in Nevada County and a packet that lists tips on diet and exercise, having a healthy sex life, and staying active.

Harris said that almost all insurance covers ostomy supplies, and if a patient cannot afford the supplies, the Wound Healing Center will help the patient get in touch with support groups that have options for no or low cost.

An ostomy changes a person's life, but it doesn't have to take away the things that an individual enjoys. The ostomy nurse will help find the pouching system that works best for the patient.

The pouch can be hidden, and the patient's favorite clothes can still be worn. He or she can still travel, go to work, and do all of the things that made life complete before the surgery.

The SNMH Wound Healing Center will give the patient access to the resources that the patient needs to feel supported and to enjoy an excellent quality of life.

All physicians providing care for patients at SNMH are members of the medical staff and are independent practitioners, not employees of the hospital.