Fatima Krisni, president of the Association des stomisés du Maroc (ASTOMA), has been living with a stoma for nine years after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. She shares her experience to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with stomas and to advocate for better recognition of their needs. According to Krisni, having a stoma is not just a surgical procedure, but a life-changing experience that requires adaptation and support.
A stoma is a surgical intervention that creates an opening in the abdomen to allow for the evacuation of waste or urine into a pouch. Krisni explains that living with a stoma requires learning to live differently, changing daily habits, and taking care of one's skin. She emphasizes that it is essential to accept one's new body and regain confidence. Krisni's personal experience has driven her to create ASTOMA, which aims to provide support and visibility to people living with stomas in Morocco.
Several diseases can lead to a stoma, including digestive cancers, inflammatory bowel diseases, and intestinal complications. Krisni stresses the importance of early detection, citing that 9 out of 10 colorectal cancer cases can be cured if detected early. She also notes that stomas are not always permanent and can be temporary or definitive. However, many patients in Morocco face challenges in accessing necessary care and support.
Despite the growing number of people living with stomas, Morocco lacks reliable data on the prevalence of the condition. Krisni believes that this lack of data hinders efforts to address the needs of people with stomas and to develop effective support systems. ASTOMA aims to fill this gap by advocating for the rights of people with stomas and promoting awareness about the condition.
Living with a stoma requires more than just medical care; it also demands psychological, familial, and material support. Krisni highlights the financial burden of managing a stoma, including the cost of pouches and accessories. She also notes that many people with stomas face social isolation and stigma, which can exacerbate their condition. Krisni encourages people with stomas to seek support and not to let their condition define them.
Many patients with stomas experience a sense of rupture with their pre-stoma life. Krisni acknowledges that it can be challenging to cope with the physical and emotional changes that come with a stoma. However, she emphasizes that with time, support, and accompaniment, people can learn to live with their stoma and regain their confidence. Krisni's message to those living with stomas is to not hide and not give up on their lives.
Krisni's advocacy work focuses on promoting awareness about stomas and addressing the needs of people living with the condition. She hopes that in the future, a national study will provide a better understanding of the situation in Morocco. For now, Krisni continues to share her story and support others living with stomas, encouraging them to take control of their lives and seek the help they need.
Key points
- The Association des stomisés du Maroc (ASTOMA) aims to provide support and visibility to people living with stomas in Morocco.
- Early detection of colorectal cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
- People living with stomas require comprehensive support, including medical, psychological, familial, and material assistance.
