After forgetting about resources to empty my Stoma bag last time, I made sure I took a nappy bag and a couple of pieces of toilet paper. Did I need it? No. Did I help me be at peace when I was riding? It probably helped.

So last time out I got rather cold, so I was determined not to let this happen again. However, I went the opposite way. I over dressed and had to stop halfway up the first climb to take off my hat, armwarmers and change to thinner gloves. Stephen and I then headed across to the Eden Project. 

Here we eventually locked our bikes behind a staff gate. Our bikes were apparently an eyesore and we couldn’t leave them near the café. This was quickly forgotten though thanks to he good coffee and cake.

We then (at a good speed) headed home. This was fine and I started to believe in my legs until the hills started again… I then remembered my muscles are actually rather weak still and another stop for a banana and a couple of jelly babies was needed to keep me going.

Yet again I was able to complete a gentle 20mile ride with a stop. Did I worry or think about my Stoma? No. Am I worried about getting my fitness back? Not really. Yes this is a frustrating time for my fitness levels as I am feeling weak and don’t want to push too hard. But I am starting to see more and more how having my surgery has given me a new lease of life without pain and high levels of fatigue. This week, being IBD awareness week, I have been reminded daily of all my previous symptoms and I am glad to leave them behind.