A Free 20-Minute Call – Someone Who Understands
My Mentoring space is specifically designed for individuals adjusting to life with a stoma, those who are preparing for the possibility of having a stoma, and for carers or loved ones in need of stoma support. It’s a welcoming environment where you can connect with a stoma mentor and engage with the stoma community while coping with a stoma.
Hi, I'm Mel, and I have been adjusting to life with a stoma since November 2022 due to rectal cancer. I am married, live in Herts, UK, and have two grown-up children. I truly understand how life can change, both physically and mentally, when coping with a stoma. Before and after my surgery, I was eager to connect with someone else 'like me.' This drive led me to become a stoma mentor in the stoma community, where I provide stoma support to others navigating similar experiences.
Friendswithstomas is a peer support and mentoring service based on personal lived experience of living with a stoma. I am not a qualified medical professional and do not provide medical advice or clinical treatment.
The information shared during mentoring sessions and on this website is intended for emotional support, reassurance and general guidance only. It is not a replacement for advice from your stoma nurse, GP, consultant or healthcare team.
You remain responsible for your own health decisions and should always seek appropriate medical advice for any medical concerns. Friends With Stoma cannot be held responsible for outcomes related to decisions made following mentoring sessions.
If you experience any urgent symptoms, pain, leakage, infection, or changes in your stoma, please contact your stoma nurse or healthcare provider without delay.
By engaging with this service, you confirm that you understand this is a peer support service and not a medical or clinical service.
I believe that adjusting to life with a stoma, or supporting someone coping with a stoma, is not just a medical experience but a deeply personal one.
When I was navigating my own journey in the stoma community, I didn’t have anyone who truly understood. That absence influenced how I support others today.
As a stoma mentor, my approach to stoma support is rooted in lived experience, empathy, and calm conversation. I believe that stoma support should feel gentle, honest, open, and respectful.
I create a space where questions are welcome, emotions are valid, and you don’t have to be positive or have everything figured out. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build confidence and understanding at your own pace.
Because feeling less alone in this journey can make all the difference.
Different online stoma support groups will soon be available, providing gentle, ongoing support for individuals adjusting to life with a stoma in a shared space.
These groups will offer a valuable opportunity for those coping with a stoma to connect with others in the stoma community.
9th Feb 7pm
Every 2nd Friday of the month from 10:00am to 12:00pm, join us at The Rose and Crown Pub in Sandridge, St Albans, AL4 9DA for a supportive gathering focused on adjusting to life with a stoma.
Every 3rd Saturday of the month from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at The Sheldon Inn, Sloansway, Welwyn Gdn City AL7 1NB
What to expect: - No booking required - Free car park available - £2 for unlimited tea and coffee - Relaxed, informal setting - Come along for as little or as long as you like - Open, supportive conversation within the stoma community - A safe space to talk about coping with a stoma and connect with a stoma mentor. We look forward to seeing you there!