Today is World Ostomy Day, and it means more to me than I can say. Every three years, ostomates worldwide gather on the first Saturday of October to raise awareness, share our stories, and remind everyone that we are here, thriving, and deserve to be seen.
This year's theme is "Invisible Disabilities: Visible Support – The Global Unity of Ostomates." Most people have no idea I have an ostomy. I can walk down the street or sit in a coffee shop, and no one knows that under my clothes, I'm managing a medical device that saves my life every day.
The Weight of Invisibility
Living with an invisible disability is complicated. I appreciate choosing when to share that I have an ostomy, but it can be frustrating to feel alone in my struggles. When people can't see your disability, they often don't understand it. They may not know why you need to use the accessible washroom when you "look fine," or question if you really need workplace accommodations.
Why World Ostomy Day Matters
This is why World Ostomy Day is so important. It's the day we make the invisible visible together. We step forward and say, "This is part of who I am, and it's nothing to be ashamed of."
For me, World Ostomy Day means:
- Validation: My experiences are real, my challenges are valid, and my needs matter.
- Connection: Knowing thousands of ostomates worldwide are sharing their stories makes me feel less alone.
- Hope: Seeing progress in ostomy awareness gives me hope for more acceptance.
- Empowerment: This day lets us take back the story of what it means to live with an ostomy.
The Global Unity We're Building
Living with an ostomy can feel isolating, especially for young adults. Traditional support groups often don't match our experiences. We're dealing with dating, building careers, social events, and young adulthood challenges, all while managing our ostomies.
World Ostomy Day reminds us we're part of a global community. From North America to Europe, Asia to Australia, young ostomates face similar challenges and find similar solutions.
Creating Visible Support
It's not enough for people to know ostomies exist. We need real support systems like accessible washrooms, affordable supplies covered by insurance, understanding healthcare providers, workplace accommodations, and representation in media.
World Ostomy Day is when we come together to advocate for these needs. We educate policymakers, healthcare providers, employers, and the public about what real support looks like.
My Hope for the Future
I imagine a future where young people who get ostomy surgery feel supported, not alone. Where they can quickly find peer support from others who understand. Where they see themselves represented in advertising, social media, and popular culture. Where workplaces make accommodations simple and dating feels less intimidating.
How You Can Get Involved
If you have an ostomy, consider sharing part of your story. Post on social media with #WorldOstomyDay and #InvisibleDisabilities, talk to a friend about your experience, or join a virtual support group. Your story can help someone feel less alone.
If you don't have an ostomy but want to support this community, take time to understand what ostomates face. Listen to our stories, advocate for accessible facilities and affordable healthcare, and challenge stigma when you see it.
World Ostomy Day occurs only once every three years, but the work continues every day. Let's keep making the invisible visible, so each of us feels seen, heard, and thriving.
Join the Community
Connect with other young ostomates who understand your journey. Read more articles, access resources, and be part of building the support we all deserve.
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