11 March 2025

In 2020, Henry Dalgleish found himself in Lebanon, experiencing severe abdominal pain and bleeding from the rectum, symptoms of what would go on to be diagnosed as Crohn's Disease.

Realising the urgency of his condition, he rushed back to Australia, where he underwent a 6.5-hour life-saving surgery at Austin Health.

His colon was removed, and he was fitted with a colostomy bag. Last year, this became permanent - a life-changing decision he made with the guidance and support of his medical team.

Approximately 50,000 Australians live with a stoma, which can include a colostomy bag.

For Henry, the journey was not just about survival but about adapting to a new way of life.

Despite being in and out of consciousness post-surgery, he always felt reassured by the expertise of his doctors.

“We always had all the information possible before making any life-changing choices,” Henry said. “Since the surgery, there has been such a continuity of care. The team at Austin Health aren’t just excellent medical practitioners, they’re excellent human beings who truly care.”

Adjusting to life with a stoma has been challenging, particularly when it came to body image and comfort. However, Henry was determined to find solutions. He designed a special range of pants tailored for people with stomas. He hopes the pants will help people with stomas step into their confidence and bring their full selves each day.

“The bag enables me to live as normal a life as possible and with the highest quality of life,” Henry said. “Clothing became an important tool in rebuilding my confidence, and I realised there was a need for intentionally designed pants for people with stomas that married effortless style and supreme comfort.”

Recently, Henry had the incredible opportunity to showcase his product at Melbourne Fashion Week, bringing visibility and innovation to those living with a colostomy bag. His goal is simple: to make life a little easier for others facing the same challenges and to help empower people with stomas to live life confidently and to its fullest.

Austin Health is proud to be part of Henry’s journey, providing the care and support that helped him navigate life after surgery with determination and hope.