Thank you to the many who wrote to say that having a toolbox (I reference and instruct on creating one in my soon-to-be-published book SO MUCH MORE THAN MY OSTOMY: LOVING MY PERFECTLY IMPERFECT BODY!) is something that resonated with them. In fact, the frequent comment was that since we all have issues and challenges that weigh on us, the more we feel empowered with coping tools, the better. I am all about feeling empowered, empowering, and motivating empowerment.
Thinking more about all that I can offer regarding experiencing our best life, I jokingly said we need a support group for living. There are countless issues that present themselves every day, so imagine how wonderful it would be if we had anecdotal information from others on how they navigate and negotiate their challenges.
Truthfully, support groups are the most amazing way to find our people, regardless of the situation. Several years ago, when I became president of the Union County Ostomy Support Group of New Jersey, I would write to members and simply state the date and time of the next meeting, without mentioning the name of the group. One of our members asked me to please identify which support group I represented since he belonged to a few. It hit me that a smart and resourceful person finds the answers they need, regardless of how many places they need to go.
Obviously, a support group for living is a little tongue-in-cheek, but nonetheless, we have so much to learn from others and sharing our knowledge is a gift we can give each other. It is said there is nothing new under the sun, and that may be true, but when something new happens to you, positive or negative, it is remarkable, and as such, guidance may be greatly appreciated.
The takeaway is that a very important tool we can all use in our toolbox is the ability to reach out when help is needed. Whether it is for a challenge you are facing, a new experience that needs some hand-holding or just the knowledge you are not alone, support is available when you let others know you are ready and receptive. I am reminded that when I attended the United Ostomy Associations of America Conference in Philadelphia in August 2019, one of the speakers commented we were there with our people. That was life-affirming for me, because, above all, we all need to be with our people!
Thank U Ellyn for all you do to help others with an ostomy!!!
Love your blog and love your positivity!
It’s always great to hear about your tools for living a positive life. Thank you.
Over the years my dear friend, I have watched you deal with one crisis and then another. I will always remember what you said to me, Ellyn, when I commented on how nice your hair looked despite a long stay in rehab: “I just had the hair dresser do my roots. I figured I could take care of the rest when I was discharged. But she did a good job.”
I blinked and shook my head. Only Ellyn possessed enough self-awareness to know what she needed to do to lift herself up.
Your “tool box” is huge Ellyn, and how fortunate for so many that you continue to reach out and share. You are most assuredly a positive force in this life, meeting incredibly challenging situations full-on.