Asanda’s Story

For Asanda, living with a stoma has not only been a physical challenge, but an emotional and psychological one. Years of inconsistent access to appropriate supplies left her feeling exposed, anxious and stripped of control over one of the most fundamental aspects of her body. The constant leaks, severe skin irritation and an overwhelming smell became part of her daily reality. Without access to proper ostomy products, Asanda was forced to rely on plastic bags and heavy duty tape to manage her stoma. She knew the risks, but there were no alternatives. The consequences were painful and relentless: burning skin, open sores, leaks and deep embarrassment. What hurt most was the loss of confidence. Asanda became acutely aware of the smell and felt certain others could notice too. Gradually, fear took over. She stopped seeing friends and family and rarely left her home. When she did, it was only to rush to the hospital in the hope of collecting supplies, often receiving just two to five bags, expected to last an entire month.

This ongoing uncertainty took a severe toll on her mental health. Anxiety became a constant presence, driven by desperation and the daily stress of trying to manage without adequate support. Asanda has lived with this reality since 2019, cycling between short periods of having supplies and long stretches, sometimes up to seven weeks with nothing at all.

When Asanda received Footprints 2 Africa supplies, she was overwhelmed, not just by relief, but by shock at what was included. For the first time, she received not only bags, but wipes, paste, stoma powder and adhesive remover sprays, items that are never provided, yet make an enormous difference to comfort, dignity, and quality of life. For Asanda, these supplies meant more than medical support. They meant safety. Confidence. The ability to breathe again. She is deeply thankful and forever grateful.