Jonathan Healy Shares Life After Stoma Surgery Through Podcast

Jonathan Healy’s life took a significant turn following his stoma surgery, a procedure that has enabled him to embrace a more fulfilling existence. Diagnosed with a severe form of Crohn’s disease at the young age of 11, Healy has faced numerous challenges due to his condition. Now, through his podcast, The Survival Project, he aims to inspire others living with chronic illness.

Jonathan’s journey began when he started experiencing severe symptoms, including urgent bowel issues. By his late teens, doctors recommended that he undergo surgery to receive an ostomy bag, also known as a stoma, which creates an opening in the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body. Although the adjustment was not easy, Healy soon recognized the newfound freedom that came with the surgery.

He recalls a pivotal moment during a bus ride from Claregalway to Eyre Square in Galway. “The first time I remember realizing that my life had changed for the better was getting on a bus from my home to Eyre Square and not having to worry that I was going to have to get off the bus randomly,” he said. The relief he felt was profound. “I felt like a weight had lifted off my back.”

Adjusting to life with a stoma presented its own set of challenges. Healy described the initial phase as a “whole adaptation phase,” where he grappled with body image issues and the practicalities of managing his ostomy bag. “Initially, it’s like a military operation, and then it’s just like brushing your teeth. You completely adapt,” he explained. The ease of managing his condition improved significantly over time.

Crohn’s disease impacts approximately 50,000 people in Ireland, encompassing various chronic conditions, including ulcerative colitis. These illnesses stem from an immune system malfunction that causes the body to attack itself, leading to inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Typical symptoms include urgent bowel movements, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

The term “stoma” originates from the Greek word for “opening.” It denotes the surgical procedure that creates an opening for waste to exit the gastrointestinal or urinary tracts. As he navigates his own health challenges, Healy is committed to raising awareness, particularly with World Stoma Day approaching on October 4, 2023.

From an early age, Healy faced numerous health hurdles. His symptoms first emerged as a persistent redness around his lips, which led his mother to seek medical advice. However, it was during a basketball tournament at age nine that he experienced severe urgency to use the restroom, prompting further investigation. A diagnosis confirmed that he had Crohn’s disease.

As he transitioned into secondary school, the severity of his condition escalated. “For the first time, a consultant mentioned that an ostomy bag was potentially on the table because my symptoms weren’t alleviating with any of the medication,” he recalled. The medications provided only temporary relief, leading to the consideration of surgery.

Healy credits Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland, an advocacy group, for their invaluable support throughout his journey. “They have been life-changing for me. There’s a dedicated helpline, and there’s an unbelievable array of information on the website,” he said, highlighting the importance of accessible resources for those affected by inflammatory bowel diseases.

In addition to his podcast, Healy actively shares his experiences on social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok. He launched The Survival Project with the goal of helping others navigate life with chronic illnesses. “I always think back to that age and how life could have been so much easier if I just had someone that I could look up to,” he noted.

With his podcast, Healy invites guests to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and support for those facing similar challenges. He believes that sharing these experiences can provide hope and encouragement, illustrating that life can improve after a diagnosis.

As Jonathan Healy continues to advocate for those with chronic illnesses, his journey serves as a reminder that positive change is possible, even in the face of adversity.