Thabile Mkhatshwa
 
Living with a stoma bag is a life-altering experience, physically, emotionally, and socially. For many, it marks a difficult chapter filled with adjustment and resilience. 
Two Edenvale Regional Hospital patients, Khupe Mthandazi (27) and Virginia Kgwale (69), know this journey intimately. Both underwent stoma surgery in 2023 and recently had successful reversals during the Gauteng Department of Health's third edition of Mandela Day Surgical Marathon, a province-wide initiative where 29 hospitals performed 806 life-changing procedures in just 12 hours.
For Mthandazi, a vibrant and athletic young man, the stoma meant stepping away from soccer, his greatest passion. "I felt uncomfortable, like I was not myself anymore. I stopped playing, stopped hanging out with my friends. I didn't want anyone to know," he shared. The experience deeply affected his confidence and left him feeling isolated.
Kgwale, who also had her stoma placed in January 2023, faced a different set of challenges. "It took time to learn how to clean it and dress without discomfort. It was not easy, especially at my age. I have sons, and there were moments when I needed help, especially when the bag leaked, but they could not always assist," she stated.
She described the daily reality of living with a stoma: the discomfort, the unpredictability of leaks, and the limitations on her mobility and lifestyle.
"It required constant care and attention. Sometimes the bag would fill with gas or overflow, and I had to be very cautious with how I moved," added Kgwale.
For both patients, the emotional toll was just as significant as the physical one. The sense of being different, of having to hide or adjust their lives, weighed heavily.
Today, both Mthandazi and Kgwale are stoma-free and filled with gratitude.
"I feel like myself again," Mthandazi said, smiling. "I cannot wait to heal fully and get back on the field!"
Virginia added, "Now I can sleep comfortably, not just on one side. I can move freely without constantly worrying."
Their stories are powerful reminders that while a stoma can be lifesaving, it also brings challenges that require strength, support, and compassion. 
Thanks to medical advances, dedicated healthcare teams, and initiatives like the Surgical Marathon, there is healing and hope on the other side.