In recent times, I have dedicated myself to this reflection. Every obstacle I’ve faced has become an opportunity for growth and reinvention in the face of adversity. Decisive moments have led me to embrace significant changes in my life, and this has only been possible thanks to my support network—people who have encouraged me to re-signify each experience. The support of qualified professionals, family and friends is essential in this process of self-reflection and continuous learning. When we decide to face our fears with faith and resilience, true transformation takes place.
Since childhood, I’ve lived with severe gastrointestinal symptoms. It wasn’t until I was 15 years old that I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Despite various treatments, the disease persisted, leading to the need for a definitive ileostomy at the age of 17. I was helped through the process by an exceptional multidisciplinary team and collection of stoma therapist nurses. Without knowing what the future held, I began my great journey of transformation.
In the transition to adulthood, I faced bouts of anxiety and depression. However, despite such challenges, I never abandoned my studies. I always sought to learn more. From a young age, I took part in social movements that fought for improvements in healthcare for people with ostomies in Brazil. In 2004, I completed my degree in nursing at a public university. Two years later, I started a specialisation course in stomatherapy—my great dream! I got a full scholarship and worked three jobs for a long time. I worked in both the public and private sectors, from primary care to the intensive care unit, as an educator, care nurse and manager. It’s been a wild ride over the last 10 years, and I’ve consistently maintained my commitment to my studies and participation in relevant scientific events.
In 2014, I was invited by a friend to start working for a multinational company. This would prove to be one of the most important decisions of my life. Despite my fears, I embarked on a journey to another country, where I learned a new language and worked in a new role that broadened my knowledge.
The next 4 years were marked by dedication and intense learning. I am immensely grateful to this country for everything it has given me, especially for meeting the love of my life—now my husband—who supported me in critical moments between life and death, most notably during a sepsis emergency that required surgery and days in intensive care. We returned to Brazil soon after we got married.
I stayed at the multinational for another 6.5 years, where I took part in significant national and international projects. I lost count of the times that I was able to transform the lives of others by sharing my story and the knowledge I had acquired over the course of my 20 years in nursing—17 of which had been dedicated to stomatherapy—and almost 30 years as a person with an ileostomy. I have taken part in many trips, events and congresses, and many associations of ostomised people and professionals who have become informed on the importance of comprehensive care. This year, in 2024, I completed another stage of specialised study with my Master in Business Administration (MBA) course. I feel a deep sense of pride knowing that I have built a legacy that has transcended borders and impacted lives around the world.
Today, after reflecting on everything I’ve experienced, I’ve decided to start a new project! My professional career and international experiences have shown me the importance of comprehensive care for people with ostomies, technical training for health professionals and raising awareness of empathy in care planning.
I have recently returned to teaching, and I also intend to return to research—my great passions. Contributing to the training of nurses dedicated to the care of people with ostomies has further strengthened my commitment to educating professionals. It is through this that I hope to offer differentiated care to other ileostomates and ostomates—a very special clientele.
Recently, between 28 September and 1 October 2024, I had the exciting opportunity to take part in WCET-ASCN UK 2024 Joint Congress, one of the most important global stomatherapy events, which was held in Glasgow, Scotland. During this time, two scientific papers from projects in which I was involved were presented. These experiences not only enriched my knowledge, but also strengthened my connection with professionals who are also dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life. The event was a celebration of innovation and care in stomatherapy, especially in relation to the care of the person with a stoma.
For health professionals, the topic of ‘stoma’ can generate doubts in relation to its specificity. I feel that my transformative mission—to promote humanised, empathetic and personalised care for each person with a stoma through knowledge and experience—must continue. I also offer specialised nursing consultations via video call to overcome geographical barriers. For health professionals and companies involved in caring for people with an ostomy, I offer consultancy, lectures, training and participation in events. Every interaction is a valuable opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
I carry with me many dreams that drive me forward. I currently work as an independent professional under the motto: ‘A stoma is a possibility for a new life, for dreaming and making dreams come true’. I firmly believe that education is the key to transforming people’s lives. I invite you to rediscover your passion for life; the right information can make your journey as a person with an ostomy lighter and more rewarding. Believe in yourself and realise your dreams!