Four months after my September 2011 surgery, I decided to leave January’s harsh temperature behind and go enjoy the warm temperature of Dominican Republic. I didn’t really think that I would be asked questions about my ostomy at the airport, but it happened. Before clearing customs, the officer asked me what was on my stomach. I was shocked, but he was only doing his job! I didn’t know what the English word for « ostomie » was, so they had trouble understanding me. I ended up showing them, and they looked uncomfortable to have asked me about it. They finally let me through, and I flew to Puerto Plata.

I was nervous before clearing customs because I’d never heard anyone talk about it. I hadn’t heard about people missing their flights because they were detained at customs. I’d never heard of someone who needed to remove their pouching systems in front of the officers. I’d never imagined people had fake pouching systems and would hide money or illicit substances in them.

Last October, I had the entire month off, so I took it as an opportunity to travel. I was a bit scared I’d be asked questions about my ostomy, but I was ready for them while going through the airports of Quebec City, Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Iceland and Finland. But you know how many questions I was asked? None! I never had to mention the fact that I am an ostomate. Maybe it’s unlikely for the officers to ask you questions about it before flying to your dream destination.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for customs:

• Get your travel passport from the Ostomy Association in your province (for example, the one in Quebec is the Association québécoise des personnes stomisées). You can have it signed by your doctor, and it details your condition in seven different languages. This passport could help others understand you clearly wherever you are.
•  If you don’t own a travel passport, you can learn a few medical terms related to your ostomy in the language spoken at your destination.
• In your hand luggage, put your extra pouches, flanges and other products you need when changing your pouching system. Make sure you only bring precut flanges and 100 mL containers for liquids. Place your scissors and your bigger containers in your other luggage.
• Please understand that the officers are there to do their job and ensure the safety of everyone. There is no point in getting mad at them if they ask you some questions.

My last piece of advice is the most important one I think. Don’t let bad experiences at customs prevent you from travelling. Yes, there is a chance that officers ask you questions about your ostomy, but it’s also very likely that everything will go smoothly, so go on an adventure, go discover the world and remember that your ostomy is there to help you travel, not to prevent you from doing so!

Andréanne

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