Ostomy Foundation

We provide education, awareness and advocacy to and for ostomates of all diversions, their families, caregivers, medical professionals and others in the ostomy community. Through support networks, speaking engagements, social media and community programs, we help individuals navigate their ostomy journey while encouraging them to be their best self along the way, as well as advocate for client rights and strive to eliminate misconceptions and stereotypes related to ostomy that exist for ostomates and in the general public. The organization serves clients of all ages and from all stages of illness. This includes pre-op and immediate post-surgery care, as well as those who seek long-term assistance for continuing education and emotional support. Currently, there are approximately 1 million ostomates in the U.S. The number of ostomates is increasing due to earlier detection and advances in medicine. One of our programs is the Ostomates Wellness Care Program. In coordination with clinicians at hospitals, we provide supportive services and education to hospital inpatients and outpatients, as well as ostomates receiving services through health care agencies and skilled care/rehab centers. Ostomy surgery is a traumatic experience physically and emotionally. It can be overwhelming trying to navigate the world of ostomy care post-op. Reasons for this life-saving surgery may be, but are not limited to, cancer, ulcerative colitis (UC), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s Disease, birth defects and many other medical conditions. Ostomy surgery allows waste to exit the body through a surgically created diversion from the diseased area to an exterior pouch or bag.