Nobody's Actually Looking: A Customer's Story of Learning to Let Go of Incontinence Shame

Everyone knows! They are laughing at you on the inside as you check out at the register. They give you weird stares when you walk by, presumably hearing your pants rustle or noticing the slight bulge in the rear of your jeans. The questioning eyes of strangers are arrows stabbing you in the back as you enter a family restroom at a store or rest stop.

Ever wish they would invent longer shirts or baggier pants so people wouldn't notice? Wouldn't it be great if every store, airport, or rest stop had an adult single stall restroom or change table? Why can't more companies carry unscented powder so you don't have to feel like you smell of "baby fresh scent" or "lavender?" These simple things would help eliminate some of the stares, wouldn't they?

Reality check time, folks… Does everyone in the store really know? 

Is anyone even really staring at you? Probably not. 

However, when you struggle with incontinence the single hardest thing to do is accept yourself as normal and feel like others accept you as normal too. I don't date for fear of having to tell the lady I treated to dinner I need protection. My family and friends have never been told. I would quit the job I love rather than have to tell my bosses. I would feel utter humiliation if I tried any of these.

That is why I am going to single out the employees at NorthShore today. In all the years I have ordered from them, not once have I received any negative or condescending comments. When you order on the phone, they treat you with kindness and positivity. When you pick up your purchase they smile and offer to help you with the door or your package. It is probably the only time each month I feel NORMAL.

Does the world really judge us and see people with incontinence as weird, special, or someone people want to avoid? I doubt it, but it always feels like they do, because you know you have a problem that is different than many people. This is why NorthShore promoting their company on billboards and on MLB radio matters. They are spreading the word that it's OK to have to wear their products. It's a topic that is OK to publicly talk about. I can tell my sister and my friend about my struggles. I don't have to feel shame at every corner. Maybe I could even date again?

I wish everyone smiled and treated me the way they do. They give me hope that the rest of the world will, too!

 

Thank you for reading our customer stories. NorthShore works to remove the confusion and isolation surrounding incontinence, helping individuals better understand that “incontinence is very common, often treatable, and regardless, very manageable.” — Adam Greenberg, President & Founder of NorthShore We are grateful for the opportunity to share these journeys and provide products that help people live life to the fullest. Learn more about sharing your story through the NorthShore Hero Club. Have a story to share? Submit it below to help others feel less alone.

Yes, I would like to share my story Story provided by* My Story... *Email Address Get the latest incontinence tips and advice delivered straight to your inbox!

---