Hi, I’m Jo, and today I want to talk about World Ostomy Day, a special day that means a lot to me and many others who have a stoma.
In case you didn’t know, a stoma is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that diverts waste from the bladder or bowel into a stoma bag or ostomy pouch on the outside of the body.
There are many reasons why someone may require a stoma and adjusting to stoma life is not easy, but it can change a person’s life in a good way too.
For me, World Ostomy Day is a celebration of how my life has been positively transformed by becoming an ostomate.
An ostomate is someone living with a stoma, like me.
This day encourages all ostomates to share their stories, celebrate their resilience by being strong even when things are tough, and connect with others in the ostomy community.
I still remember my first World Ostomy Day back in 2021.
It was a day full of reflection and gratitude. My stoma gave me the freedom to try new things, like joining a competitive swimming club.
In September 2021, I returned to competition, marking a new chapter in my journey. That was such a proud moment for me. Being part of the ostomy community is truly special. Although my ostomy friends are spread across the UK, I value these connections deeply.
I ensure those new to life with a stoma understand the importance of World Ostomy Day. It’s essential to help them feel supported and connected, even from afar.
World Ostomy Day serves as a powerful reminder that we are never alone. A supportive community is always available, and this connection has made a significant impact on my daily life. I want to ensure that everyone living with a stoma, or caring for someone who does, understands the strength that lies within our community.
Together, through our shared experiences and support, we can make living with a stoma empowering and fulfilling.
One of the most inspiring things about World Ostomy Day is seeing how other ostomates overcome their unique challenges. Each journey is different, and adapting to life with a stoma can be tough. Acknowledging these challenges highlights the incredible resilience within our community and emphasises the need for ongoing support and understanding.
I first learned about World Ostomy Day a year after my surgery, thanks to the awareness campaigns by Colostomy UK. Before that, I had no idea this day even existed!
But once I found out, it deepened my understanding of why we need greater awareness and support for the ostomy community.
This day has also helped increase the visibility of ostomy-related needs and services, which is vital for our community.
This year, I’m especially excited about the theme, “Empowering Ostomates Worldwide to Be Comfortable.”
It’s all about building confidence and connecting with each other, which is exactly what I’m focusing on.
I’m committed to staying connected with the ostomates I’ve supported over the past year, plus, I’ve set myself a big challenge: I’m planning to climb Kilimanjaro in October 2025!
Why?
To support women in Kenya who have stomas because of childbirth injuries by raising funds to build a special stoma clinic for them.
Through this journey, I hope to increase awareness and support for the ostomy community, showing that life with a stoma can be full of adventure and dignity. So, whether you have a stoma, know someone who does, or are just curious, remember that World Ostomy Day is about celebrating strength, creating meaningful connections, and knowing that together, we can make a positive difference.
Thanks for reading, and Happy World Ostomy Day!
Follow Jo on Instagram at @colostomummy