The story behind StomaEase™ and StomaDisc™
Currently, there are no treatments to address the root cause of skin breakdown around PEG, G-tube and J-tube sites feeding tube sites. Stoma leakage causes significant pain and discomfort to patients, ranging from minor irritation to severe wounds that sometimes require surgical intervention. StomaEase™ was developed by Jasmine Sturr, a chemist with a feeding tube, who was determined to find a solution to her constant pain.
In 2020, after enduring a burn wound from bile leakage, Jasmine decided to tackle the problem head-on. Her background in chemistry inspired her to research various materials that could absorb leakage, draw it away from the skin, gel together, help control odor and be easily removed.
After months of research and self-testing, she successfully formulated a powder that provided significant relief. Seeing the positive impact of the powder, Jasmine's father, Mel Sturr, who had been her unwavering support through every health challenge, recognized the product's potential to help others. He became her dedicated business partner, working alongside her for three years to bring the powder to market.
In June 2023, Jasmine and Mel attended The Oley Foundation conference, an annual event that brings together patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. The foundation hosts educational sessions, fun events, and vendor exhibits. At the conference, they visited the LumaClean, LLC exhibit, where a sign caught their attention: “Do You Have An Idea? We are looking for new product ideas and seek to collaborate with others in a mutually rewarding manner. If you have an idea or simply a ‘pain-point’ where you wish someone could produce a solution or a ‘better way,’ please contact us.”
Jasmine spoke with Martin von Dyck, President of LumaClean, LLC, and thus began the journey to bring the powder to market. Martin is a medical device engineer, and he had an idea to help hold the powder in place. He designed a disc that Jasmine evaluated with her powder. After providing feedback and making necessary changes, they named it the StomaDisc™ and the powder StomaEase™. The combination of StomaEase™ powder and StomaDisc™ worked beautifully, and together, they shared a pending patent on the product.
Martin's mission and passion for LumaClean, LLC emphasizes the importance of addressing patient needs that have long been overlooked. The company is committed to making meaningful improvements in patient care. At LumaClean, we listen intently and innovate tirelessly to make life better for patients and healthcare professionals. LumaClean, LLC partners with a registered dietitian to ensure a thorough clinical review and input of all our products. This is truly a success story for Jasmine, Mel and the LumaClean Team.