Jay is the author of the the BCIR Advocate blog and the book, "Colitis Be Gone." In 1998, I decided to have the BCIR (Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir) surgery due to severe colitis. My day job is working in media and marketing, so I felt I had the tools to bring some exposure to BCIR and how it might help others. I actually get many emails about the BCIR, so I felt the blog could work as a better message board. Please note, I am not a doctor and have no medical background. Anything you read on this blog is based on my own experiences living with the BCIR. I may give advice based on my own experiences, but please consult your doctor before acting on anything you read on this site.
You’d think it wouldn’t matter what type of underwear a person with the BCIR would wear, but for me it’s a strategic decision. I’ve always been a tighty‑whities/ fruit-of-the-loom kid growing up; it’s just what your mom got you. The snug fit briefs have always just been the standard for me. However, after getting the BCIR, I quickly found that ... Read More »
Tubeage, deal, gimmick, gadget, equipment… These are some great code words I use for my catheter. You know, the terms you might use to reference your catheter around family and friends. The cool thing about the BCIR is that you really feel normal, as nobody can tell that you have this whole pooping through a tube thing going on. So, ... Read More »
I’ve received a few inquires recently about where to buy catheters for us BCIR patients. So I decided to list the BCIR catheter on this website. (30FR) BCIR Catheter Torbot – Medena Continent Ostomy Catheter Brand new straight-end non-sterile catheter for continent ileostomies. This is the popular one for the BCIR. This catheter is easy to use and comes 12 ... Read More »
Who doesn’t love ‘Corn on the Cob’ at a BBQ?! Come on, it’s a must have! Well if you’re a BCIR person, then I bet you already know where this story is going. It’s funny, even after 15+ years with the BCIR, I made the most common BCIR rookie mistake. You gotta chew that corn up good!! I know I’ve ... Read More »
What’s your flavor of tube when it comes to the BCIR catheter? I have been using the same size/ model since I left the hospital (30FR), but not the same tube, as that would be gross. I usually swap my tube out for a new one every few months. The straight 30FR catheter seems to be the standard for us ... Read More »
In September I attended my first conference with the QLA; the 32nd Annual QLA Conference in San Diego, CA. I must say it was a great experience, so I thought I would write about it here. The venue was excellent, and one can’t deny the beauty of San Diego. The QLA team who organized the 3 day event did a ... Read More »
BCIR Advocate Living with the Barnett Continent Intestinal Reservoir