Kate Murray's Journey to Wellness, Fitness, and Advocacy

Kate, a registered nurse, wife, and mother, underwent ostomy surgery after experiencing medical issues for years. Her stoma has allowed her to achieve goals she never thought were possible.

Learn how Kate is living her best life with an ileostomy.

Kate, who lives in Australia, is a registered nurse, wife, and mother who has been living with a permanent ileostomy for the past 14 years. She had surgery after years of pain and suffering due to mechanical and dysmotility issues. Having a stoma has allowed Kate to do many things. She attended university and attained a degree in nursing, travelled more extensively, achieved some incredible goals in her health and fitness journey, and became an advocate for other people with ostomies. Most significantly, Kate was able to become a mother, something she wasn’t sure was possible.

We recently interviewed Kate to hear more about what she experienced, how she lives her life to the fullest, and how she supports others with ostomies.

Please tell us a little about your ostomy journey, and the loved ones who are part of your support network.

I was diagnosed with a prolapsed bowel at age 18. After multiple unsuccessful abdominal surgeries and more than 10 years of living with pain, I underwent surgery to create a temporary loop ileostomy. A couple of years later it was converted to a permanent end ileostomy.

They say it takes a village to raise a child; well, it certainly has taken a village to get me to where I am today. I credit my parents who were by my side through every medical appointment, procedure, and surgery, as well as my two siblings who dealt with my tears and frustrations. I also credit my husband who taught me that giving up was never an option. He taught me about strength, grit, and determination, but most importantly, he taught me that love knows no boundaries.

And, of course, I credit my beautiful little boy who taught me the true meaning of unconditional love. He is and will always be my everything. He knows that his Mummy is a little bit different, but I continue to teach him that having a stoma has been life-changing for me and not life-limiting in any way.

What are some of your hobbies?

I have always been a keen gym-goer. Since undergoing ostomy surgery, I have continued my quest to achieve a healthy lifestyle, navigating through my own inhibitions to find that delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. I am fit, strong, and healthy today because of my ostomy, and I have achieved gains in my health and fitness that I never thought were possible.

I have trained extensively in F45 and at Fitstop, both of which focus on strength with progressive overload and functional training. I have also participated in the Spartan Race 10k Super and the True Grit Challenge, which are obstacle course races designed to test your speed, strength, and endurance. This year, I will also compete in my first HYROX indoor fitness competition with three other teammates. All these challenges are a testament to what I have been able to accomplish physically and mentally since becoming an ostomate.

What have been your best and worst moments as an ostomate?

Best: Right after my ostomy surgery when I was pain-free, drug-free, and able to sleep through the night for the first time in many years.
Worst: Dealing with multiple pouch leaks in the early days following my surgery and not understanding why they were happening.

What are three misconceptions you had about ostomies prior to surgery?

1. That ostomy surgery was something that only happened to older people
2. That people would be able to see my stoma and perhaps smell it
3. That I would need a whole new wardrobe/that I wouldn't be able to wear nice clothes

 

What are the things you do to maintain healthy skin around your stoma?

I have a very strict routine where I change my pouch every night before bed. I remove my pouch in the shower and clean my skin with warm water. Then, once my skin is dry, I apply a skin barrier wipe to the area. I also always cut my skin barrier to the correct size to ensure the stoma output has minimal contact with my skin. It’s so important to keep your peristomal skin healthy – so you stay comfortable and confident!

Please tell us about your ostomy advocacy efforts.

I am a passionate advocate for ostomy awareness. I share photos on Facebook and Instagram to increase the visibility of this lifesaving surgery, especially on World Ostomy Day which is held the first week of October. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness, promoting education, and providing support for ostomates worldwide.

In addition, I’m a regular speaker for the Queensland Health system's Metro North Division as well as for Hollister Incorporated. I share my story in the hope of generating awareness and reaching as many people as possible.

I have also written articles for national publications and online forums. In 2024, I published a book that my Dad and I have been working on for four years. “Overcoming Fears and Tears: My Ostomy Story, A Journey to Wellness” is my own personal story about the power of resilience over adversity. We hope it is used as an educational tool that provides support and knowledge to those suffering from bowel diseases.

Why do you feel it’s important to share your story of living with an ostomy?

As a nurse, I want to use my own experiences to educate patients like me who are undergoing stoma surgery – especially since what is portrayed in the media is NOT representative of every situation. Since becoming an ostomate, I have played a key role in educating my patients, the general public, and members of the medical community about life with a stoma. I hope to challenge the stigma and teach others about the possibilities that lie beyond surgery. There is no better feeling than when a patient says that you have changed their whole outlook and perspective with just one conversation. It is truly heartwarming!

 

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Kate received compensation from Hollister Incorporated for her contribution to this article. The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented are applicable to the people depicted. These testimonials are representative of their experience, but the exact results and experience will be unique and individual to each person.