Despite 90,000 people in the UK community living with an indwelling urinary catheter*, continence and catheters are often treated as a taboo subjects. This is something we’re determined to change. This is why we’ve launched our #ConversationsAboutContinence campaign.

As part of the campaign, we’ve had the pleasure of speaking with four individuals about their personal experiences of being diagnosed with a condition which has had an impact on their continence. Paul, Evie, Stella and Keith were kind enough to share their experiences in the videos below.

Evie’s story

Evie is a 16-year old para showjumper who was born with a form of Spina Bifida. Despite having to use catheters for most of her life, Evie hasn’t let this hold her back and she’s made some wonderful achievements. Listen to Evie’s story below:

“I’ve never let my condition or the management plans for it define me. It’s important to remember that a catheter can give you that life back.”

Stella and Keith’s story

Stella and Keith were both enjoying their well-earned retirement. Then they were told that Keith needed hip replacement surgery. He developed sepsis and the hip joint had to be removed. This is when his catheter first went in. Despite being told he’d never walk again, Stella and Keith devoted themselves to Keith’s rehabilitation and used going on holiday as a goal for Keith to work towards. Listen to Stella and Keith’s story below:

“I was horrified at the thought of having to deal with the catheter. However, it’s not half as bad as you would think.”

Paul’s story

For Paul, it was a huge shock when he was told he had developed grade 3 cancer, with extensive spread around his urological organs. In the video below, Paul talks about how he’s adapted to life and found his ‘new norm’ since receiving his diagnosis and undergoing treatment. Listen to Paul’s story below:

“One piece of advice I was given, which I’ve never forgotten, is to only focus on things you can change the outcome of.”

Find your new norm

During the process of finding your new norm, using the right products and getting the right support can make all the difference. This is why the team at Optimum Medical are always here to provide help and guidance.

We understand that sometimes, looking at photos of products on a website isn’t enough. This is why we pack up personalised sample boxes and send these out free of charge. So you can take a look at the products in your own time, in the comfort of your own home.

To request your catheter drainage and fixation sample box, please click here.

Do you have a story to share?

We’re always listening. To have a chat with one of our friendly customer care advisors, please call 0113 263 3849 or email hello@optimummedical.co.uk.

Alternatively, to find out more about the #ConversationsAboutContinence campaign, please visit the dedicated campaign page on our website by clicking here.

*Wilson M (2016) Urinary catheterisation in the community: exploring challenges and solutions. British Journal of Community Nursing. 21: (10): 443