Self-proclaimed ‘Colostomummy’ Jo Prance is an inspiration to many. Despite facing major surgery and living with a colostomy bag, she is determined to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and raise funds for women with childbirth injuries. Her incredible journey is a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to helping others.
Jo Prance, a 32-year-old mother of two, was diagnosed with a rare condition called Fournier’s gangrene during her second pregnancy. This condition, which affects only 1 in 100,000 people, is a life-threatening infection that requires immediate surgery. As a result, Jo had to undergo an emergency caesarean section and a colostomy, a surgical procedure in which a piece of the colon is diverted to an opening in the abdomen to collect waste.
The experience was a shock for Jo, who had a healthy first pregnancy and did not expect any complications during her second. But instead of letting this setback bring her down, Jo decided to turn it into an opportunity to raise awareness and help others. She started a blog called ‘Colostomummy’, where she shares her journey and advocates for better support and resources for those living with a stoma.
Now, almost two years after her surgery, Jo is taking on her biggest challenge yet – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. She is doing this to raise funds for women with childbirth injuries, a cause that is close to her heart.
In developing countries, childbirth injuries, such as obstetric fistula, are often caused by prolonged and obstructed labor without access to proper medical care. These injuries can lead to incontinence, infections, and social stigma, making it difficult for women to lead a normal life. Jo believes that by raising funds and awareness, she can help these women get the medical treatment and support they need to live a better life.
Preparing for such a daunting task is not easy, especially with the added challenge of living with a colostomy. But Jo has been training consistently for the past six months, pushing her body to its limits and overcoming any doubts or fears. She has also been working with a personal trainer and a stoma nurse to ensure that she is physically and mentally prepared for the climb.
With just a few weeks left until her departure, Jo is feeling excited and nervous at the same time. She knows that this will be a physically and emotionally challenging experience, but she is determined to reach the summit and make a difference in the lives of others.
Jo’s journey has already inspired many, and her story has been featured in several media outlets. She hopes that by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, she can raise even more awareness and funds for women with childbirth injuries. She has set a fundraising goal of £10,000, and every penny raised will go towards supporting these women and providing them with the necessary medical care and resources.
In an interview, Jo said, “I want to show people that having a stoma doesn’t limit you from achieving your dreams. I am determined to reach the summit and prove that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.”
Her determination and courage have also caught the attention of others, and she has received support from various companies and individuals who believe in her cause. Jo’s employer, Waitrose, has generously sponsored her trip and has also pledged to match the funds she raises through her climb.
Jo’s journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can choose to rise above it and make a positive impact in the world. Her determination, resilience, and compassion make her a true inspiration, and we can all learn from her strength and selflessness.
As she embarks on her journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, we wish Jo all the best and hope that her efforts will help make a difference in the lives of women with childbirth injuries. If you would like to support Jo and her cause, you can donate to her fundraising page or follow her journey on her blog and social media channels. Let’s all come together and support this ‘Colostomummy’ on her mission to make a positive change in the world.
