Invisible disabilities, visible support – The global unity of ostomates
Tomorrow (4 October) marks World Ostomy Day, an international event dedicated to raising awareness of life with an ostomy and recognising the resilience of ostomates worldwide. This year’s theme, ‘Invisible Disabilities: Visible Support – The Global Unity of Ostomates’, highlights the importance of uncovering the often invisible realities of living with an ostomy, while creating visible support and fostering global awareness.
To mark this important day, we’d like to celebrate all the urostomates who have shared their stories with us, whether through blog contributions, in our Journal or via our Help Provide Hope Story Wall.
The days leading up to, and following surgery, can feel daunting, so hearing from others who have been through it can make all the difference. By openly sharing their experiences, our story-tellers are providing encouragement and reassurance, helping to reduce fear and uncertainty about what life may hold.
Brian Fretwell, Chairman, said:
“This year’s World Ostomy Day theme reminds us that while a urostomy may be invisible to the outside world, the challenges and triumphs of living with one are very real. We are grateful to all the urostomates who have shared their stories with us – their voices provide visible support, inspire hope, and show others that life after urostomy surgery can be full, active, and rewarding.”
By fostering conversation and sharing experiences, we aim to contribute to global awareness, equity, and support for the ostomy community. On World Ostomy Day, we celebrate the courage, openness, and unity of ostomates everywhere – and the hope they bring to others every day.
- Would you like to share your story? Click here to contribute to our Story Wall, or contact Paola, our editor, if you’d like to share your story as a blog or in the Journal. We can’t wait to hear from you!
