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Ostomies 101

By Anonymous
Quite a few of our patients with IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) have faced the decision of whether or not to get an ostomy. What is an ostomy, you ask? It is a surgical procedure where the end of part of the intestine is brought out to the stomach surface, and then stool is diverted into an external bag that adheres to the stomach's surface. Amazing that our bodies can do that, right? These can be temporary or permanent, depending on the needs of the patient.
Gotta have a sense of humor...
Often times, an ostomy is an option that is used when medicines have failed, surgeries are not working, and quality of life needs to be restored. And quality of life is the whole point, right?! So if you are considering ostomy surgery, reach out! The best thing you can do is to talk to other people who have been through it. The concept can sound scary and foreign at first, but once you meet people who have chosen to have an ostomy, you may have a different opinion. To end, here are some categories of organizations who are great to reach out to:

 
Information



Find cool products and clothing
I also have heard maternity pants for ladies are lifesavers! 

Get support
Awestomy- check out their amazing blog post all about creating an ostomy support network! 



Find love



Get financial assistance
 (from CCFA's website)
The Ostomy Group: www.ostogroup.org
Friends of Ostomates Worldwide: www.fowusa.org
United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc (UOAA): www.uoaa.org, 
Convatec- Access Program: P: 800-979-8716
Hollister: www.hollister.com

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