Richard’s Journey

Leakage and Skin Irritation: The Complete Guide to Ostomy Belts, Barrier Rings, Brava Strips, and Pouching Systems
Leakage and Skin Irritation: The Complete Guide to Ostomy Belts, Barrier Rings, Brava Strips, and Pouching Systems
A five-part breakdown of ostomy belts, barrier rings, Brava strips, and pouching systems — what each one does to prevent leakage and skin irritation, and the layering method that's stretched... Read more...
A large group of people gathered inside a big church
Living With an Ostomy: My Leak Story and How an Ostomy Belt Helped Me Handle It
A leak is something almost every ostomate faces eventually. Richard shares his own first experience with one, why a support belt made the difference, and how to protect your skin... Read more...
Can You Go to a Water Park With an Ostomy? My Story and the Ostomy Belt That Saved the Day
Can You Go to a Water Park With an Ostomy? My Story and the Ostomy Belt That Saved the Day
Can you really enjoy a water park with an ostomy? Richard shares the solo trip to Schlitterbahn that tested him, the close call that proved his gear could handle anything,... Read more...
Can You Play Tennis With an Ostomy? A Real Answer From an Ostomy Belt Wearer
Can You Play Tennis With an Ostomy? A Real Answer From an Ostomy Belt Wearer
Wondering if you can play tennis with an ostomy? Real advice on tennis and racquetball with an ostomy — from someone who's played the whole match. Read more...
Traveling With an Ostomy: Packing, Airport Security, and the Right Ostomy Belt
Traveling With an Ostomy: Packing, Airport Security, and the Right Ostomy Belt
"After nearly thirty years with Crohn's and seventeen years wearing an ostomy — including cross-country trips and travel across Europe — I'm sharing what's actually worked for me on the... Read more...
How to Choose an Ostomy Belt: A Guide From 17 Years in the Industry
How to Choose an Ostomy Belt: A Guide From 17 Years in the Industry
A practical guide to choosing the right ostomy belt — sizing, vertical vs. horizontal, and what to look for — from the inventor of the ostomy support belt category and... Read more...
Richard O'Hamill Fire Swords
About Richard O’Hamill: The Ostomate Behind the HIRO Ostomy Belt
About Richard O’Hamill In 2008, I underwent life changing surgery that left me with an ostomy, and a decision: I could shrink my life to fit my circumstances, or I... Read more...