There are support groups for many issues but until I, myself, was in need, I never gave much thought to what they can provide. We have seen representations on television and in the movies, and they seem to have merit, but I have learned that they can be a lifesaver, or at the very least, a way to begin to live a life.
During all of the over 20 years that I suffered from constant bowel obstructions and abdominal surgeries, I longed for others to tell me “it would be alright.” But there were no “others” to be found…nobody seemed to have what I had, and therefore, I could never ask what I could do, what did he/she do to live a fuller life? And then I had my ileostomy, and everything changed. After my 23rd abdominal surgery, something happened that hadn’t happened before…I now had the name of something that could actually garner support, and I took to it like a duck to water!
My ostomy nurse, Angela Natale-Ryan invited me to the Ostomy Support Group at Overlook Hospital, and I was quick to take advantage. Little did I know that, fast-forward, I would find a home for myself, become president for the past 5 years, and go on to start other support groups. But that is only one piece of the wonderful puzzle I find myself putting together. As president, my name is given to those in need who call the American Cancer Society, or United Ostomy Association of America, or even the local hospitals. The connection I have to so many reaches into every interaction I have since each new encounter teaches me something.
As much as we are all individuals, new members are frightened and worried, hesitant to walk through a new door, and filled with misconceptions. Letting someone know “it will be alright” because we have all been through it, is invaluable. And most importantly, we welcome each new member of the group with open arms.
At the beginning of our meetings, we go around the (ever-growing) group and say our names and type of ostomy we have, and if we are new ostomates. Additionally, I ask if anyone has any issues that they would like discussed, and we will circle back to those after everyone has a chance to introduce themselves. Our Wound and Ostomy Nurses address the medical concerns, and we discuss the lifestyle ones for each other.
I have garnered a wealth of knowledge about the medical, the physical and the living with ostomies, as well as the ability to know where to gain more information and knowledge when needed. Rarely does too much surprise me in those areas over these past 5 years. But I am so appreciative and feel forever treated to the magnificence of the human spirit, as I see the emotional growth that takes place as we lean on each other for support, and I can count on that!
Always watching for you
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And thank you so much for reading…how are you feeling? How long have you had your ostomy, and what type? I am very interested…
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Thank you so much, and please continue to read! How long have you had your ostomy and what type? I am very interested in knowing more about you!
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Thank you very much, and please continue to visit my site. Are you an ostomate?
I so respect your desire to help ease the way for others. I can’t believe that it’s been over 5 years that you’ve had the surgery. As your sister, I know that you live life to it’s fullest…and an ostomy doesn’t stop you. It’s no surprise that you would be drawn to others who can benefit from the group. I didn’t know you were an American Cancer Society resource. You have found your way, El.