There are millions of Americans out there with ostomies and my grandma is one of them. Today we are showing off our Ostomy Awareness Day stickers we received from Hollister.
My grandma has had a colostomy for over two years now. She had the first colostomy in November 2013, which was reversed in February 2014, due to diverticulitis. A little over a year ago, she had her second colostomy while in the hospital. I have been supporting her navigate her journey of living with an ostomy.
Check out this infographic by United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc. (UOAA) that shows the basic facts about ostomies.
http://www.ostomy.org/Ostomy_Awareness_Day_2017.html
Today is also about recognizing all those who have helped us along the way.
There’s no way I could help my grandma with her ostomy without the KC Ostomy Care Center. They are super courteous and helpful and they always ask how we’ve been doing. They always listen non-judgmentally to what’s going on and answer any questions I have as my grandma’s caregiver. They have provided us with tons of information to help us manage her colostomy. They always answer the phone and respond to emails. They are open on Saturdays for off hours needs. They have truly been a lifesaver. They have even offered to deliver my grandma’s supplies in times of desperation. I look forward to seeing them every month when it’s time to pick up her bags.
Having an ostomy is scary at first and at times, but with the right support and proper care, it’s a manageable part of life for my grandma.
