Wow i'm shoked! The last time i watched a video you were trying a menstrual cup. I'm a med student and i'm learning a LOT from your experiences as a patient. I've never met anyone with ulcerative colitis but when i do i will keep all of this on mind, how drasticly and quickly things can change, and how much of a lost it is. I feel really sad but also empowered by you! It must have been so hard to accept all the changes, but you're so strong!
Exactly! I'm a junior doctor (hi international colleague!!), and watching your videos has been very beneficial for me and has totally changed the way I will counsel my pre and post-surgical patients. I'm so glad you've been so open with how your life and wellbeing has been affected xx
I have cerebral palsy, and I had my legs surgically broken three years ago. I've just now gotten to the point where...I can jog like, a block-ish, and it doesn't make my joints feel like hell?? I still don't want to run far because I don't want to destroy my ligaments, but that's my little victory. And if I can run at all, you can run a 5k. I'm here with you all the way.
Hi Hannah. I'm having my surgery in 2 weeks to have a stoma and I've just found your channel. I'm so thankful that you have shared your journey so I'm able to feel less alone and have great advice. You're an inspiration. You are going to be doing that 5k in no time but don't put any pressure on yourself, you'll know when you're ready. I'm off to binge watch your videos now 🙋🏻♀️ xxx
I’ve been waiting the 2 weeks to come back and say this, I hope your surgery goes well and you’re back home with your stoma as quickly as possible! : )
the part where you mentioned not trusting your body made me realize that is what keeps me from exercising, it's a real possibility that my body might not be able to handle some things but that shouldn't keep me from everything.
Hi Hannah, I had the exact same surgery as you. I’m now 18 months post op and am doing the same exercises I was doing pre op. Pole for fitness, Zumba and yoga! I started off doing exercises exactly as you are then started a beginners yoga class which built up my core strength through gentle exercises. I couldn’t recommend that enough! I don’t use any support garments apart from support knickers which I wear daily xx
My dad has UC and was initially diagnosed 4 years ago, within months he had to have surgery to remove his large intestine and create a stoma, 2 years on from this he had the J pouch reversal operation. Last year he decided, for the first time in his life, to take up running to build strength just like you and also because he was due to turn 50 this year so he wanted to do it before his birthday. He built his way up to park runs and then this year I had the pleasure of seeing him cross the finish line on the Great North Run half marathon whilst raising thousands of pounds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK and at 50 years old too! If he can do then I’m certain that you can too:) x
I just had a hysterectomy 3 weeks ago and I had another open abdominal surgery 2 years ago so I feel like my core is shot. I am not cleared for exercise yet but I will definitely follow your videos for inspiration that I can get stronger again. Thanks for doing this.
The “not trusting your body” thing is a very real feeling we face as people with disabilities and chronic illness, that can be so difficult to overcome. I have arthritis and fibromyalgia and I have struggled with this a lot. About two years ago now I decided to go for it, to trust my body and just listen to it. To trust myself to know what was manageable and what was too much and not just avoid everything out of fear that things will go wrong. It was such an empowering experience for me, albeit a difficult one. Recently I’ve let my focus on my physical health decline to really focus on my mental health but I feel so ready to do this again - To trust that it’s not all completely reversed because of the down time, or that my body has completely reverted to a body that can’t do these things anymore. I’m going to do this with you, Hannah. We got this shit 💪
I don’t have a stoma but I do have to do certain exercises for my legs that look easy but really hurt and this made me feel a lot better about it because it helped me to realise that just because something looks easy and is easy for someone else it doesn’t mean it’s easy for everyone
Hi Hannah! I am a physical therapist, so I love seeing people's journeys back to trusting their own bodies :) I would suggest exactly what you said your plan is with the compression band, that is to leave it off when you are doing your floor exercises and more targeted core strengthening. Wearing it while running or with other higher intensity activities, especially ones that involve whole body movements is a good idea (at least for the time being) to give you that extra support. You may find that you don't feel you need it anymore after you get those muscles stronger. Good luck! I'll be rooting for you!
Hey Hannah. I've had 5 surgeries on my foot in the last year and am ACHING to go running again. I know exactly how it feels to not trust your body any more, or how hard it is to watch everyone else do things so easily when you can only dream of doing it without pain. Hearing about your recovery process and your optimism in it helps me so much when I have harder days. I'll be rooting for you :) xx
Hanna, you are a courageous woman and an inspiration to us all. Your journal will help you recover your fitness. I had severe UC in 1999 and colon removal in April 2000 and I opted for the J Pouch which my Doctor did at the same time he removed my colon. However I still had a stoma after my operation while everything inside healed and in November 2000 they closed the stoma and things were back to "normal" except for having to sit on the crapper 5-8 times every day. I was very active and fit before the surgery and since I had recovered from several other surgeries due to football injuries in my younger years I knew that I could recover my fitness. Your journal will help and find a couple of friends to work out with to keep you motivated and to run with. Best of luck.
Just started into my workout routine again (8 weeks post op) and was just freaking out about how simple the exercises felt - so appreciate everyone who is sharing their non-linear recovery stories. When you said you’d had to start back from the beginning again I felt a wash of relief that it’s not just me. And god do I understand the guts spilling out feeling. Very excited to follow along with your journey as mine progresses too!!
GO HANNAH!!!!! I believe in you! You have survived two surgeries and have come out the other side, so I believe that if you can do that, you can do literally anything.
Park Run is amazing! I did this a bunch as a kid, and then I went to uni and gave up running. One started up near me again this year and I've been using it to get back into running as its so good just to keep up health and is so easy to create goals! Everyone should do Parkrun regardless of ability. No Exceptions!
@@ninamarie177 No don't worry, I'm automatically tweeting Hannah to remind her to do her exercises. I'm a professional Web Developer so I'll be setting up a script to tweet Hannah at various times during the day.
I had my last major surgery for Crohn's back in 2014. Bits of large bowl removed, butt removed, fistula removed and new stoma fashioned. I am a night filler or shelf stacker if you like. It's a very physical job. Have been doing it for almost 10 years at one of our major supermarkets here in Western Australia. Recovery wasn't easy. First it was 4 weeks off at home recovering. Then back at work on light duties for another 4 weeks. Then I was put in a 'light' isle filling and gradually over the course of another month back to heavy lifting isles. It took a while but eventually I recovered my core strength. Nowadays I'm fit as and fairly strong for a girl. I just had to know my limitations and to lift things differently until I got back to my full health. Try using your knees and a straight back when lifting and avoid using your stomach. This can help. Never used a waist belt because I never knew about them. Might have been useful in my recovery. Just take your time and little by little you'll be back to where you were before surgery. Good luck.
So proud of you Hannah!! You’re an inspiration to anyone who has a chronic illness and struggles with fitness, wellness, and body image (me included.) 😘😘
You are such an inspiration. We had major abdominal surgery at around the same time and seeing you on your journey has really helped me with mine. It’s been ugly most of the time but things are getting better and once I could accept what had happened things got so much better so thank you for making me feel normal when I’ve been the most abnormal I’ve ever felt in my life! xx
That whole ‘trusting your body’ thing has really resonated with me too. I’ve had chronic pain for 8 years now and I’ve got so unfit (not that I was hugely fit to begin with!) because I don’t trust my body to do exercise. I am going to start changing my self-talk and do some affirmations on this I think. Thank you for the motivation!
this resonates me rn.. I'm 4 weeks out of being hit by a car, surgery, and a fun broken leg. I feel so tense and ready to fight (or flight, lol) whenever anyone comes near my leg, although it's improving!! I hope it goes well for you, Hannah!
I'm not in London/near a park that that does park runs so I can't actually join in in that sense, but extra accountability, I think I'm going to try doing all this stuff along side you! It might not have been intended as a group project, but I'm going to join in anyway! I could just do with the general fitness rather than having had any major surgeries, but hey, if you can do it (and you 100% can!) then I can definitely do it. Good luck, see you at the finish line!
I had 2 surgeries on my knee 3 years ago and I totally get what you mean about not trusting my body- it can do it but man o man do I not trust it at all. It's like another thing to worry about daily. Thanks for the inspo! I'm gonna try and work on it more- good luck girl!!
I don't have a stoma but i do have a brace like that. What I've been told is not to wear it so much that you become reliant on it but to use it when I have to sit (and hold my body upright) for long periods of time such as when I'm studying or to wear it when I'm in pain and need the compression to relieve stress on my body. But I don't wear it when I exercise because that's when I should be training my stabilising muscles to support me independently of the brace.
I needed this video. I haven't ever really progressed in my recovery with my chronic injury which I've had for 5/6 years because I am not consistent enough to do my exercises. Good luck with your recovery!!
Good luck! I have CFS and have spent the last year in a very bad physical place, but am starting to recover, and I am hoping to get back to where I was before in the next few years. You are an inspiration!
Avoiding wearing the band to train your muscles is not a valid reason. Basically you’re trying to stop water leaving a sink by strengthening the sink. It’s not gonna work because the sink itself is not leaking, the water is leaving through the drain hole. Does that make sense? No matter how strong your abdomen muscles are, they cannot stop the outward pressure on your stoma because the muscles don’t cover the stoma. Judge the necessity of the band solely on your confidence of your stoma.
Love how mentally strong you are and how much you want to get strong physically as well, the easy way would be to through a pity party and just accept that you are weak, but no you are not weak,just weakened atm!
Oh I can relate to this so much. Not specific your surgical history, but I have ongoing chronic hip issues and have had 10+ big surgeries over my life (I’m 31). Just walking for me is sometimes a struggle so when I try and ‘exercise’ I feel so pathetic because to anyone else they would look like nothing. I’ve started walking more with my boyfriend to increase strength slowly, but it’s tough! Supporting you all the way with this x
Gahhh this is exciting! I had surgery a month ago and I was written off for 6 months before surgery. I’m starting my own couch to 5k tomorrow and I can’t wait! I can’t wait to get fit to sort of do it for the people who don’t get a choice in what they can do physically. I’m working towards a life of mountain climbs etc
Did any other Canadians watching think Hannah was about to say "Until next time, keep fit and have fun" at the end? Good luck with this project! Looking forward to tagging along :)
I'm going to show this to my mum, at the moment shes suffereing with four slipped disks in her back and struggling to even walk about the house. My dad as signed her up to do Tough Mudder next year as a joke but I feel like this could give her some of the motivation she needs, good luck!!
Tip! The first time you go for a run, try do it on a treadmill at the gym or at a friend. Itll start you on no incline with even ground and keeping yourself in the same place (because imagine running in a park and randomly needing to lie down). Build strength and confidence up from there!
I'm in a similar place, as far as health issues affecting my activity level and fitness. It's so encouraging to hear from someone else. Thank you for sharing!
Really looking forward to watching this series and helping you on your journey by helping with accountability!! I have faith in you, you're gonna do great 😁
I have scoliosis and I was given those bent leg to straight leg excersizes to do when I was recovering from surgery on my back. I still do the knees to the side ones now, for me those ones are less about using my core and more a way of stretching the muscles which go along the left and right sides of my body. They tend to tense up and pull me back to being asymmetrical if I don't stretch them every day. Good luck with your fitness journey!
I have been doing Parkrun for 3 years and I am currently expecting my first baby so my times have increased dramatically and my average has just crept over 30 mins. I wasn't happy about it but figured that it is better than not running at all (it's a run, not a race after all). I'm trying to see it as I am giving myself something to aim for once baby is born and I know that I'll be able to get back under 30 mins again and then I can work on getting that average back down. Be proud of your journey and let your results show that. Also, you'll get a t-shirt quicker if you always get scanned.
I love parkrun so much. Makes you feel like you’ve been productive and social. Don’t worry about your time, enjoy your journey. Plus if you don’t get scanned you’re further away from getting your parkrun tshirt 😁
You can do this. It took me over 6 months to fully get my stamina back after surgery. While I didn't do distance running, I was doing Laser Tag in 6 minute games where each game was at least 1/4 mile running with 20+ pounds of equipment (battery pack, helmet, etc). On a typical Sunday I ran about 6 miles over the course of a day.
Hannah, about a year after my surgery I went to Hershey Park and rode the loop roller coasters. My gastroenterologist pronounced me cured and said that I no longer needed follow up visits. That was 31 years ago. Trust your body. You'll find your limits.
That's so awesome Hannah! Way to regain control of your body and mind! I worked up to running a 5k last year and it was such an excellent feeling, I'll be cheering you on from across the pond!
Yay Hannah, you can do this girlie! I have had a rough time with my health for the last 3 years maybe? Diabetes, Celiac disease, fibromyalgia, hypertension.. I'm a mess. So even though I have not had major surgeries as you have, I can still understand. We're here for you and I for one need to get up and move a bit with you, best of luck! 💓💕
I started running and one tool i need is hardstyle. It is the perfect music for me to run to because its fast, repetitive, and hypnotic. I basically end up just going into a like trance then before you know it the runs over your drentched in sweat.
Parkrun is such a great event! I studied in the UK for a few months earlier this year and parkruns were one of my favourite parts of the week. (Volunteering at the London Marathon might have also played a big part in my love for running.) Best of luck on your journey, Hannah!
hi lovely, i have crohns & 4 weeks ago i had a resection (keyhole) and now have a colostomy bag. i was playing football before surgery so when im better im hoping i can get back to playing but i am so worried about running and building up my strength and stamina again, and knowing what i can and can't do in order to be able to play again. so i am really looking forward to watching this series as im sure it'll help me hugely when im ready to exercise again to help me get back to doing the sports i always used to do. lots of love 💕
This is great! I am trying to get back to running a 5k too! I was hit by a car riding my bike, and have been slowly trying to get back into the swing of things! Good to know I have someone who is also going on this journey! I wish you the best!
I love parkrun! In scotland the runs don't start til 9.30 and I really appreciate that half an hour extra lie in I get compared to when I lived in england :) Best of luck, I have faith in you!
I’m doing my first ever parkrun this Saturday after deciding to get fit during my time off work in April. I have nothing that stopped me or made it harder for me, I just never liked sport at school, I always came last, and it massively put me off. I know I’ll come last or close to it - I’m hoping to manage it in less than 40mins and my parkrun usually has those at the back between 35 and 40 mins. I’m in the 24-29 age group and the back of the pack is almost always only people in their 40s plus. Knowing that I’ll be at the back, that I’m way younger than the rest at the back, that my name and results will be publicly available really put me off. I was ashamed of the idea of being at the back when young and no reason to not be fit. But sod it. I’m going to do it this weekend and if I come last (well, aside from the volunteer whose job it is to come last), and if it takes more than 40 mins in the day, then so be it! Results don’t matter, getting there and doing it at all is the important part. I got this and so do you!
Hi, I'm in the 15-17 category and I've been doing Park Run consistently for three years now. I have only gotten under 40 mins two or three times and never under 39. Honestly don't worry how far behind you are or how behind you perceive you are. The community at Park Run is incredible. All the volunteers are supportive and the runners will try and cheer you on as well. I hope you have a really really good time! I love it, I hope you do too x
Rebecca L.T This is really encouraging, thank you 🙂 I did the parkrun course in 39:57 this evening so I know I can do it (just about...), I’ve just got to push myself and be proud of getting out of bed in the first place!
Not sure how much this applies, but when I was restrengthening my injured knee & working with tensor bandages and supports, but using it like a medication i had to ween myself off of. ie. using a fairly strong bandage for a few weeks, then moving to one with less support, & on and on until I felt strong enough to try without it. But also, not feeling defeated/upset when I had to fall back on a stronger support on days where I wasn’t feeling as strong. Listening to what my body needed day to day was key for me. ❤️
This is such a great series Hannah! I'm incredibly unfit and I'm hoping to make myself accountable this year and get this body fit!! Thanks for the inspiration, you go girl!
In the middle of the video I literally started to doing some stretches, bc I did none for at least a month. I'm going to get my gym membership card at the beginning of November and I really want to start doing something. Some running, bicycle, health-oriented classes, yoga, whatever. I am really scared because I hate exercising in front of other people, but I know I'm not gonna do anything at home, so gym is the only option. I hope we both can do it ;)
Hey Hannah! Good to see you on the road to recovery! The support brace really reminds me of the ankle brace I used to get back into shape after I severely sprained it. Basically it allowed me to separate the recovery of my ankle from the recovery of the rest of my body. So your idea of starting running with it on sounds like a good idea! Maybe, if you feel confident, you could bring it, start running and put it on after the first five minutes? That way, you can work your way up to what you core can take.
This is an awesome idea, Hannah! I'm healthy and haven't had any major surgeries, but I did just start a new exercise routine/ hobby (aerial silks), and am spending a lot of time also doing very small motions that don't look like anything and yet completely wipe me out in a couple of minutes, so I totally feel that specific struggle, lol! Best of luck with persevering - I can't wait to see more of this series!
I fractured my spine when I was 16 and I FEEL YOUR PAIN!!! I have the EXACT same exercises and at 25 I'm still useless at doing them haha. They can look like absolutely nothing but omg they are so much work. But I want to go along with you Hannah and you're going to help keep me accountable :) :) P.S. You can do it!
Yaaay! I love a new series!! I literally just got home from running a 5k (only my 2nd run of 2018 haha) and I’m also not a super fit person. Feeling very grateful for everything my body does for me right now and definitely want to do more to take care of it. Excited to follow along your journey xx
I've got a stoma and I excerise regulary, I do sort of powerlifting and do heavy deadlifting above 200kg, I only use a belt when I can feel that my core is weak or it hurts/stings in the muscles. When I run, I don't use anything nowdays. It might however be nice to use a belt only because if you have alot of poop in the bag, or if your expecting it, lol. The belt stops the bag from wiggeling which helps the muscles, otherwise it can strain the muscles aroung the core from pulling and moving. It's cool to see other young people with stomas
I'm in a similar place. I had surgery last year and still don't completely trust my body. I had the opportunity to go kayaking and didn't because I as too afraid of getting hurt. My surgery also affected by core. I hadn't gone swimming yet and didn't know how my body would feel in the water or be able to balance enough. Completely unrelated. I love your rug! It's really cute.
Mazel Tov for starting and believing you can!!! I’ve never had surgery but I would never be able to do a 5k even if I tried lol so good on you!! you’re going to succeed!!! All the love xx
With you on this ❤️❤️ just reached my target weight with Slimming World after losing 2 stone. It hit me that no matter the amount I lose I can never really change my body shape. I’m a pear and my legs are rather big. I started 5k to slim down my legs 😁 I’m now on week 6 of couch to 5k and my goal is to do a park run xx
Ooh this might be just what I need! I haven't had surgery recently, but I've been ill a lot over the past year or so, and I've lost a lot of strength. I'll also hopefully be having a hysterectomy in January, so already having at least average core strength will be good for that recovery. I just felt silly trying to work back up to like "normal" exercises, because the really basic ones didn't feel worth the time, but anything harder was too much, but maybe you're the long-distance workout buddy I didn't know I needed!
I have a disc problem in my back and have to do very similar exercises. I tried to use one of those brace things, but I felt like it just got in the way. My issue is relatively minor, though, so obviously do what feels right for you. I will say that using a heating pad on my back works wonders and loosens up all the back muscles that are working overtime to compensate for the abdominals. I work retail and use it after every long shift and for fifteen minutes after I exercise.
Hi Hannah, I have a stoma too! after surgery i was eager to get back out on my bikes, i took it easy and used waist bands at first but now i'm stronger and more confident i only used them if i am riding a skatepark or BMX track where jumping and catching my bag may be an issue, you might find you'll like a lighter weight one (i have one from Comfizz which is like a boob tube) just as extra support when running to keep it in place, though the extra sweating can cause issues with comfort and/or your your bag coming away from the skin. Good luck with your 5K mission. I'm sure you will achieve it if you give yourself enough time and don't be hard on yourself if you have flare ups or days when it seems like you've gone backwards, just get back up and try again.
I'm proud of you to see that you're working towards a goal to help you feel better and reconnect to your body. I'm going to see if I can mirror the exercises that you are doing. Do you have any videos or websites that guide you on how to do them? Thanks!
Totally can relate to the weak core after 2 c-sections mine was gone and I was in so much pain my Dr sent me for physio it helped so much in just 10 months I was back to my prepregnacy pain level and able to be discharged with the recommendation to continue to work on it at home and maybe considering building up to doing pilates or yoga.
do a kind of daily vlog about this exercises and after a week or two upload them all. for us to check if you work on your goal. I'm here waiting to see the process
Hannah, I'm joining in! I have not exercised since the New Year and only recently started to cycle to work again to improve my fitness. Have you thought about cycling (indoors to start with) as part of you recovery? I find cycling a great way to ease into exercise after a break but I haven't had a surgery.
I had my 16 cm/2 kg dermoid cyst (google at your own risk) removed. Just when I think nothing else can surprise me about the human body anymore I saw you talk about your surgery. I hope you are feeling well.
Wow i'm shoked! The last time i watched a video you were trying a menstrual cup. I'm a med student and i'm learning a LOT from your experiences as a patient. I've never met anyone with ulcerative colitis but when i do i will keep all of this on mind, how drasticly and quickly things can change, and how much of a lost it is. I feel really sad but also empowered by you! It must have been so hard to accept all the changes, but you're so strong!
Exactly! I'm a junior doctor (hi international colleague!!), and watching your videos has been very beneficial for me and has totally changed the way I will counsel my pre and post-surgical patients. I'm so glad you've been so open with how your life and wellbeing has been affected xx
I have cerebral palsy, and I had my legs surgically broken three years ago. I've just now gotten to the point where...I can jog like, a block-ish, and it doesn't make my joints feel like hell?? I still don't want to run far because I don't want to destroy my ligaments, but that's my little victory. And if I can run at all, you can run a 5k. I'm here with you all the way.
Hi Hannah. I'm having my surgery in 2 weeks to have a stoma and I've just found your channel. I'm so thankful that you have shared your journey so I'm able to feel less alone and have great advice. You're an inspiration. You are going to be doing that 5k in no time but don't put any pressure on yourself, you'll know when you're ready. I'm off to binge watch your videos now 🙋🏻♀️ xxx
I’ve been waiting the 2 weeks to come back and say this, I hope your surgery goes well and you’re back home with your stoma as quickly as possible! : )
the part where you mentioned not trusting your body made me realize that is what keeps me from exercising, it's a real possibility that my body might not be able to handle some things but that shouldn't keep me from everything.
Hi Hannah, I had the exact same surgery as you. I’m now 18 months post op and am doing the same exercises I was doing pre op. Pole for fitness, Zumba and yoga! I started off doing exercises exactly as you are then started a beginners yoga class which built up my core strength through gentle exercises. I couldn’t recommend that enough! I don’t use any support garments apart from support knickers which I wear daily xx
WTF IS HANNAH DOING this shit she posts is unreal
Don't feel silly about those exercises! I'm a dancer and we do stuff identical to that to train our cores. You can be an honorary ballerina!
"You can be an honorary ballerina!" is possibly the cutest comment I've ever seen
My dad has UC and was initially diagnosed 4 years ago, within months he had to have surgery to remove his large intestine and create a stoma, 2 years on from this he had the J pouch reversal operation. Last year he decided, for the first time in his life, to take up running to build strength just like you and also because he was due to turn 50 this year so he wanted to do it before his birthday. He built his way up to park runs and then this year I had the pleasure of seeing him cross the finish line on the Great North Run half marathon whilst raising thousands of pounds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK and at 50 years old too! If he can do then I’m certain that you can too:) x
Can you high-five your dad for me? That's brilliant!
inspirational because I broke my ankle 6 months ago and im still using it as an excuse not to exercise......
Same same same
I sprained my ankle over 15 years ago and it still hurts when ever i walk too much or do any kind of exercise.
I just had a hysterectomy 3 weeks ago and I had another open abdominal surgery 2 years ago so I feel like my core is shot. I am not cleared for exercise yet but I will definitely follow your videos for inspiration that I can get stronger again. Thanks for doing this.
best of luck!!
Good luck!! Hope you fell better soon!!
Andrii Kuzora thank you!
mMeFlora thank you!
The “not trusting your body” thing is a very real feeling we face as people with disabilities and chronic illness, that can be so difficult to overcome. I have arthritis and fibromyalgia and I have struggled with this a lot. About two years ago now I decided to go for it, to trust my body and just listen to it. To trust myself to know what was manageable and what was too much and not just avoid everything out of fear that things will go wrong. It was such an empowering experience for me, albeit a difficult one. Recently I’ve let my focus on my physical health decline to really focus on my mental health but I feel so ready to do this again - To trust that it’s not all completely reversed because of the down time, or that my body has completely reverted to a body that can’t do these things anymore. I’m going to do this with you, Hannah. We got this shit 💪
I don’t have a stoma but I do have to do certain exercises for my legs that look easy but really hurt and this made me feel a lot better about it because it helped me to realise that just because something looks easy and is easy for someone else it doesn’t mean it’s easy for everyone
Hi Hannah! I am a physical therapist, so I love seeing people's journeys back to trusting their own bodies :) I would suggest exactly what you said your plan is with the compression band, that is to leave it off when you are doing your floor exercises and more targeted core strengthening. Wearing it while running or with other higher intensity activities, especially ones that involve whole body movements is a good idea (at least for the time being) to give you that extra support. You may find that you don't feel you need it anymore after you get those muscles stronger. Good luck! I'll be rooting for you!
Hey Hannah. I've had 5 surgeries on my foot in the last year and am ACHING to go running again. I know exactly how it feels to not trust your body any more, or how hard it is to watch everyone else do things so easily when you can only dream of doing it without pain. Hearing about your recovery process and your optimism in it helps me so much when I have harder days. I'll be rooting for you :) xx
Hanna, you are a courageous woman and an inspiration to us all. Your journal will help you recover your fitness. I had severe UC in 1999 and colon removal in April 2000 and I opted for the J Pouch which my Doctor did at the same time he removed my colon. However I still had a stoma after my operation while everything inside healed and in November 2000 they closed the stoma and things were back to "normal" except for having to sit on the crapper 5-8 times every day. I was very active and fit before the surgery and since I had recovered from several other surgeries due to football injuries in my younger years I knew that I could recover my fitness. Your journal will help and find a couple of friends to work out with to keep you motivated and to run with. Best of luck.
Honestly I'm so proud of you and I think its important for people recovering from surgery like yours to see how to make progress.
Just started into my workout routine again (8 weeks post op) and was just freaking out about how simple the exercises felt - so appreciate everyone who is sharing their non-linear recovery stories. When you said you’d had to start back from the beginning again I felt a wash of relief that it’s not just me. And god do I understand the guts spilling out feeling. Very excited to follow along with your journey as mine progresses too!!
Go Hannah! You got this girl!! I too have a blue sofa.
🤔unsure if celebrating Hannah's plan to get fit or her choice of couch...🤔
GO HANNAH!!!!! I believe in you! You have survived two surgeries and have come out the other side, so I believe that if you can do that, you can do literally anything.
Park Run is amazing! I did this a bunch as a kid, and then I went to uni and gave up running. One started up near me again this year and I've been using it to get back into running as its so good just to keep up health and is so easy to create goals! Everyone should do Parkrun regardless of ability. No Exceptions!
Have you ever tried wearing a compression shirt? That might be more comfortable and probably won't make you as physically dependent on it.
Not surprised! I think you mentioned needing a 30H bra before, whilst being only 1.5m tall.
Start with walking the 5k. Then jogging for 30 seconds, walking for 60. Do this for weeks to build up. There are running apps that help with this.
So I might have made a special twitter account that will tweet you automatically every day! :D
Mobile internet, mate?
@@ninamarie177 No don't worry, I'm automatically tweeting Hannah to remind her to do her exercises. I'm a professional Web Developer so I'll be setting up a script to tweet Hannah at various times during the day.
Andy Hartley oh lol I completely misunderstood the whole thing, I’m sorry.
Wow that's great :)
@@hannahwitton And you have to reply, only after you've done the exercises.
I believe in you, Hannah! Cannot wait to see the video of you running across that finish line!
I had my last major surgery for Crohn's back in 2014. Bits of large bowl removed, butt removed, fistula removed and new stoma fashioned. I am a night filler or shelf stacker if you like. It's a very physical job. Have been doing it for almost 10 years at one of our major supermarkets here in Western Australia.
Recovery wasn't easy. First it was 4 weeks off at home recovering. Then back at work on light duties for another 4 weeks. Then I was put in a 'light' isle filling and gradually over the course of another month back to heavy lifting isles.
It took a while but eventually I recovered my core strength. Nowadays I'm fit as and fairly strong for a girl. I just had to know my limitations and to lift things differently until I got back to my full health. Try using your knees and a straight back when lifting and avoid using your stomach. This can help.
Never used a waist belt because I never knew about them. Might have been useful in my recovery.
Just take your time and little by little you'll be back to where you were before surgery. Good luck.
💜🧡 your attitude towards your body is so incredible! You can do ANYTHING!! 🧡💜
So proud of you Hannah!! You’re an inspiration to anyone who has a chronic illness and struggles with fitness, wellness, and body image (me included.) 😘😘
You are such an inspiration. We had major abdominal surgery at around the same time and seeing you on your journey has really helped me with mine. It’s been ugly most of the time but things are getting better and once I could accept what had happened things got so much better so thank you for making me feel normal when I’ve been the most abnormal I’ve ever felt in my life! xx
I'm proud of you Hannah. This is honestly a big deal and I hope you feel proud of yourself (even on your not so great days.) You doing great.
I am also on a journey to re-build strength and watching you do this is very motivating! Let's get down on the floor and... engage that core!!!
That whole ‘trusting your body’ thing has really resonated with me too. I’ve had chronic pain for 8 years now and I’ve got so unfit (not that I was hugely fit to begin with!) because I don’t trust my body to do exercise. I am going to start changing my self-talk and do some affirmations on this I think. Thank you for the motivation!
this resonates me rn.. I'm 4 weeks out of being hit by a car, surgery, and a fun broken leg. I feel so tense and ready to fight (or flight, lol) whenever anyone comes near my leg, although it's improving!! I hope it goes well for you, Hannah!
I'm not in London/near a park that that does park runs so I can't actually join in in that sense, but extra accountability, I think I'm going to try doing all this stuff along side you! It might not have been intended as a group project, but I'm going to join in anyway! I could just do with the general fitness rather than having had any major surgeries, but hey, if you can do it (and you 100% can!) then I can definitely do it. Good luck, see you at the finish line!
Just so you know Park run happens all over the UK - I'm in N.Ireland and they have the same thing here.
Same!!
Even if you don't have one near you at the moment, see if there is interest locally - you could set one up!
I had 2 surgeries on my knee 3 years ago and I totally get what you mean about not trusting my body- it can do it but man o man do I not trust it at all. It's like another thing to worry about daily. Thanks for the inspo! I'm gonna try and work on it more- good luck girl!!
I don't have a stoma but i do have a brace like that. What I've been told is not to wear it so much that you become reliant on it but to use it when I have to sit (and hold my body upright) for long periods of time such as when I'm studying or to wear it when I'm in pain and need the compression to relieve stress on my body. But I don't wear it when I exercise because that's when I should be training my stabilising muscles to support me independently of the brace.
I needed this video. I haven't ever really progressed in my recovery with my chronic injury which I've had for 5/6 years because I am not consistent enough to do my exercises. Good luck with your recovery!!
Good luck! I have CFS and have spent the last year in a very bad physical place, but am starting to recover, and I am hoping to get back to where I was before in the next few years. You are an inspiration!
Avoiding wearing the band to train your muscles is not a valid reason. Basically you’re trying to stop water leaving a sink by strengthening the sink. It’s not gonna work because the sink itself is not leaking, the water is leaving through the drain hole.
Does that make sense?
No matter how strong your abdomen muscles are, they cannot stop the outward pressure on your stoma because the muscles don’t cover the stoma.
Judge the necessity of the band solely on your confidence of your stoma.
Love how mentally strong you are and how much you want to get strong physically as well, the easy way would be to through a pity party and just accept that you are weak, but no you are not weak,just weakened atm!
Oh I can relate to this so much. Not specific your surgical history, but I have ongoing chronic hip issues and have had 10+ big surgeries over my life (I’m 31). Just walking for me is sometimes a struggle so when I try and ‘exercise’ I feel so pathetic because to anyone else they would look like nothing.
I’ve started walking more with my boyfriend to increase strength slowly, but it’s tough!
Supporting you all the way with this x
Kinda crazy how I just had the same motivation not long before watching this. To change my diet. Good luck 2 u Hannah
Gahhh this is exciting! I had surgery a month ago and I was written off for 6 months before surgery. I’m starting my own couch to 5k tomorrow and I can’t wait! I can’t wait to get fit to sort of do it for the people who don’t get a choice in what they can do physically. I’m working towards a life of mountain climbs etc
This is awesome! It reminds me of the 100 Days project John Green did which was my fav youtube series so I'm excited for this one!! You got this :)
This is super interesting to watch your journey with all this! It’s so easy to forget how much we use our core strength even in our day to day lives.
Did any other Canadians watching think Hannah was about to say "Until next time, keep fit and have fun" at the end?
Good luck with this project! Looking forward to tagging along :)
I'm going to show this to my mum, at the moment shes suffereing with four slipped disks in her back and struggling to even walk about the house. My dad as signed her up to do Tough Mudder next year as a joke but I feel like this could give her some of the motivation she needs, good luck!!
Tip! The first time you go for a run, try do it on a treadmill at the gym or at a friend. Itll start you on no incline with even ground and keeping yourself in the same place (because imagine running in a park and randomly needing to lie down). Build strength and confidence up from there!
I'm in a similar place, as far as health issues affecting my activity level and fitness. It's so encouraging to hear from someone else. Thank you for sharing!
Really looking forward to watching this series and helping you on your journey by helping with accountability!! I have faith in you, you're gonna do great 😁
I have scoliosis and I was given those bent leg to straight leg excersizes to do when I was recovering from surgery on my back. I still do the knees to the side ones now, for me those ones are less about using my core and more a way of stretching the muscles which go along the left and right sides of my body. They tend to tense up and pull me back to being asymmetrical if I don't stretch them every day.
Good luck with your fitness journey!
I have been doing Parkrun for 3 years and I am currently expecting my first baby so my times have increased dramatically and my average has just crept over 30 mins. I wasn't happy about it but figured that it is better than not running at all (it's a run, not a race after all).
I'm trying to see it as I am giving myself something to aim for once baby is born and I know that I'll be able to get back under 30 mins again and then I can work on getting that average back down.
Be proud of your journey and let your results show that. Also, you'll get a t-shirt quicker if you always get scanned.
I love parkrun so much. Makes you feel like you’ve been productive and social. Don’t worry about your time, enjoy your journey. Plus if you don’t get scanned you’re further away from getting your parkrun tshirt 😁
ParkRun is the best! I've done so many now and they're so great! Really sets you up for the weekend! X
You can do this. It took me over 6 months to fully get my stamina back after surgery. While I didn't do distance running, I was doing Laser Tag in 6 minute games where each game was at least 1/4 mile running with 20+ pounds of equipment (battery pack, helmet, etc). On a typical Sunday I ran about 6 miles over the course of a day.
Hannah, about a year after my surgery I went to Hershey Park and rode the loop roller coasters. My gastroenterologist pronounced me cured and said that I no longer needed follow up visits. That was 31 years ago. Trust your body. You'll find your limits.
That's so awesome Hannah! Way to regain control of your body and mind! I worked up to running a 5k last year and it was such an excellent feeling, I'll be cheering you on from across the pond!
Yay Hannah, you can do this girlie! I have had a rough time with my health for the last 3 years maybe? Diabetes, Celiac disease, fibromyalgia, hypertension.. I'm a mess. So even though I have not had major surgeries as you have, I can still understand. We're here for you and I for one need to get up and move a bit with you, best of luck! 💓💕
Park run happens all of the globe! I’m in New Zealand and I’ve done them in a few different cities here :)
I’m from NZ too and hadn’t heard of them... great to know. Off to find my local
Just started up here in Helsinki too!
I started running and one tool i need is hardstyle. It is the perfect music for me to run to because its fast, repetitive, and hypnotic. I basically end up just going into a like trance then before you know it the runs over your drentched in sweat.
This is great! I fully believe you can smash this challenge. Listen to podcasts when training, it helps distract from the workout 😊
Parkrun is such a great event! I studied in the UK for a few months earlier this year and parkruns were one of my favourite parts of the week. (Volunteering at the London Marathon might have also played a big part in my love for running.) Best of luck on your journey, Hannah!
hi lovely, i have crohns & 4 weeks ago i had a resection (keyhole) and now have a colostomy bag. i was playing football before surgery so when im better im hoping i can get back to playing but i am so worried about running and building up my strength and stamina again, and knowing what i can and can't do in order to be able to play again. so i am really looking forward to watching this series as im sure it'll help me hugely when im ready to exercise again to help me get back to doing the sports i always used to do. lots of love 💕
This is great! I am trying to get back to running a 5k too! I was hit by a car riding my bike, and have been slowly trying to get back into the swing of things! Good to know I have someone who is also going on this journey! I wish you the best!
I love parkrun! In scotland the runs don't start til 9.30 and I really appreciate that half an hour extra lie in I get compared to when I lived in england :) Best of luck, I have faith in you!
I’m doing my first ever parkrun this Saturday after deciding to get fit during my time off work in April. I have nothing that stopped me or made it harder for me, I just never liked sport at school, I always came last, and it massively put me off. I know I’ll come last or close to it - I’m hoping to manage it in less than 40mins and my parkrun usually has those at the back between 35 and 40 mins. I’m in the 24-29 age group and the back of the pack is almost always only people in their 40s plus. Knowing that I’ll be at the back, that I’m way younger than the rest at the back, that my name and results will be publicly available really put me off. I was ashamed of the idea of being at the back when young and no reason to not be fit. But sod it. I’m going to do it this weekend and if I come last (well, aside from the volunteer whose job it is to come last), and if it takes more than 40 mins in the day, then so be it! Results don’t matter, getting there and doing it at all is the important part. I got this and so do you!
Hi, I'm in the 15-17 category and I've been doing Park Run consistently for three years now. I have only gotten under 40 mins two or three times and never under 39. Honestly don't worry how far behind you are or how behind you perceive you are. The community at Park Run is incredible. All the volunteers are supportive and the runners will try and cheer you on as well. I hope you have a really really good time! I love it, I hope you do too x
Rebecca L.T This is really encouraging, thank you 🙂 I did the parkrun course in 39:57 this evening so I know I can do it (just about...), I’ve just got to push myself and be proud of getting out of bed in the first place!
@@Sam-pm9vy That is already stunning! You've got this down! Have a fab time, I hope you keep me updated on how it was!
Rebecca L.T Did it in 39:29 and definitely want to keep going 😊
Sam Thats amazing!! I'm glad you had a great time x hope you go back x I actually got my first PB in 2 years at 38:23! Super happy with that x
Not sure how much this applies, but when I was restrengthening my injured knee & working with tensor bandages and supports, but using it like a medication i had to ween myself off of. ie. using a fairly strong bandage for a few weeks, then moving to one with less support, & on and on until I felt strong enough to try without it. But also, not feeling defeated/upset when I had to fall back on a stronger support on days where I wasn’t feeling as strong. Listening to what my body needed day to day was key for me. ❤️
Hannah, you are amazing! I look forward to seeing your progress!
This is such a great series Hannah! I'm incredibly unfit and I'm hoping to make myself accountable this year and get this body fit!! Thanks for the inspiration, you go girl!
Parkrun is worldwide :) so good!
I have started running park runs recently and I absolutely love it! 💕
In the middle of the video I literally started to doing some stretches, bc I did none for at least a month.
I'm going to get my gym membership card at the beginning of November and I really want to start doing something. Some running, bicycle, health-oriented classes, yoga, whatever. I am really scared because I hate exercising in front of other people, but I know I'm not gonna do anything at home, so gym is the only option. I hope we both can do it ;)
I believe in you, you are a champion, now I want to see you accomplish more of your dreames
Hey Hannah! Good to see you on the road to recovery!
The support brace really reminds me of the ankle brace I used to get back into shape after I severely sprained it. Basically it allowed me to separate the recovery of my ankle from the recovery of the rest of my body.
So your idea of starting running with it on sounds like a good idea! Maybe, if you feel confident, you could bring it, start running and put it on after the first five minutes? That way, you can work your way up to what you core can take.
This is an awesome idea, Hannah! I'm healthy and haven't had any major surgeries, but I did just start a new exercise routine/ hobby (aerial silks), and am spending a lot of time also doing very small motions that don't look like anything and yet completely wipe me out in a couple of minutes, so I totally feel that specific struggle, lol!
Best of luck with persevering - I can't wait to see more of this series!
I fractured my spine when I was 16 and I FEEL YOUR PAIN!!! I have the EXACT same exercises and at 25 I'm still useless at doing them haha. They can look like absolutely nothing but omg they are so much work. But I want to go along with you Hannah and you're going to help keep me accountable :) :)
P.S. You can do it!
This is a great goal, Couch to 5K helped jump start me into running a half marathon! Tweets sent!
Yaaay! I love a new series!! I literally just got home from running a 5k (only my 2nd run of 2018 haha) and I’m also not a super fit person. Feeling very grateful for everything my body does for me right now and definitely want to do more to take care of it. Excited to follow along your journey xx
I've got a stoma and I excerise regulary, I do sort of powerlifting and do heavy deadlifting above 200kg, I only use a belt when I can feel that my core is weak or it hurts/stings in the muscles. When I run, I don't use anything nowdays. It might however be nice to use a belt only because if you have alot of poop in the bag, or if your expecting it, lol. The belt stops the bag from wiggeling which helps the muscles, otherwise it can strain the muscles aroung the core from pulling and moving. It's cool to see other young people with stomas
You are doing great! Take your time and cut yourself some slack... everything will be ok! Lots of love and best of luck!!! 💛
I'm in a similar place. I had surgery last year and still don't completely trust my body. I had the opportunity to go kayaking and didn't because I as too afraid of getting hurt. My surgery also affected by core. I hadn't gone swimming yet and didn't know how my body would feel in the water or be able to balance enough. Completely unrelated. I love your rug! It's really cute.
Mazel Tov for starting and believing you can!!!
I’ve never had surgery but I would never be able to do a 5k even if I tried lol so good on you!! you’re going to succeed!!!
All the love xx
You go girl. They do core tightening in physical therapy.
Yes! So proud of you Hannah!!
I hope you are getting Drs approval!!!
I am glad to join you on this journey!
With you on this ❤️❤️ just reached my target weight with Slimming World after losing 2 stone. It hit me that no matter the amount I lose I can never really change my body shape. I’m a pear and my legs are rather big. I started 5k to slim down my legs 😁 I’m now on week 6 of couch to 5k and my goal is to do a park run xx
I need to get back into running so this will hold me accountable too! Also, that rug is awesome.
Excited to see your journey!!
Pretty much obsessed with your rug (and your new series of course). I can't wait to see that video of you after you've run 5K and you're so happy.
Ooh this might be just what I need! I haven't had surgery recently, but I've been ill a lot over the past year or so, and I've lost a lot of strength. I'll also hopefully be having a hysterectomy in January, so already having at least average core strength will be good for that recovery. I just felt silly trying to work back up to like "normal" exercises, because the really basic ones didn't feel worth the time, but anything harder was too much, but maybe you're the long-distance workout buddy I didn't know I needed!
I have a disc problem in my back and have to do very similar exercises. I tried to use one of those brace things, but I felt like it just got in the way. My issue is relatively minor, though, so obviously do what feels right for you. I will say that using a heating pad on my back works wonders and loosens up all the back muscles that are working overtime to compensate for the abdominals. I work retail and use it after every long shift and for fifteen minutes after I exercise.
Good luck with the fitness journey. I hope it goes well for you.
Hi Hannah, I have a stoma too! after surgery i was eager to get back out on my bikes, i took it easy and used waist bands at first but now i'm stronger and more confident i only used them if i am riding a skatepark or BMX track where jumping and catching my bag may be an issue, you might find you'll like a lighter weight one (i have one from Comfizz which is like a boob tube) just as extra support when running to keep it in place, though the extra sweating can cause issues with comfort and/or your your bag coming away from the skin.
Good luck with your 5K mission. I'm sure you will achieve it if you give yourself enough time and don't be hard on yourself if you have flare ups or days when it seems like you've gone backwards, just get back up and try again.
I'm proud of you to see that you're working towards a goal to help you feel better and reconnect to your body. I'm going to see if I can mirror the exercises that you are doing. Do you have any videos or websites that guide you on how to do them? Thanks!
Totally can relate to the weak core after 2 c-sections mine was gone and I was in so much pain my Dr sent me for physio it helped so much in just 10 months I was back to my prepregnacy pain level and able to be discharged with the recommendation to continue to work on it at home and maybe considering building up to doing pilates or yoga.
do a kind of daily vlog about this exercises and after a week or two upload them all.
for us to check if you work on your goal.
I'm here waiting to see the process
Oh my goodness I want to join you on this! I've also just had surgery so this is perfect 🙌🙌🙌
You go, Hannah! 🖤 so proud you’re doing this. (I also love your top in this video) xx
This is awesome! I definitely believe in you! You got this!!!
Hannah, I'm joining in! I have not exercised since the New Year and only recently started to cycle to work again to improve my fitness. Have you thought about cycling (indoors to start with) as part of you recovery? I find cycling a great way to ease into exercise after a break but I haven't had a surgery.
I had my 16 cm/2 kg dermoid cyst (google at your own risk) removed. Just when I think nothing else can surprise me about the human body anymore I saw you talk about your surgery. I hope you are feeling well.
Extra special best-of-luck wishes, Hannah!
I Do believe in faerys and I Do believe in you Hanna. You can do it!