Ostomy Awareness Day is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of every October. It’s an opportunity to support and honor the millions of people who live with an ostomy. Plus, it’s a great time to spread awareness about ostomies, bust myths about ostomies, and share how life-saving urostomy, ileostomy, and colostomy surgery can be.
This day is especially meaningful because many of our customers and some of our own team members at 180 Medical are living with an ostomy. These employees can understand our customers’ needs with their own firsthand experience and provide empathy, encouragement, and support.
Ostomy Awareness Day at 180 Medical
At 180 Medical, our Ostomy Specialists have the unique privilege of connecting with ostomates from all walks of life. For some, an ostomy is a long-standing part of their daily routine, while for others, the experience is new. Many people navigate feelings of shame, embarrassment, sadness, or fear when facing life with an ostomy—feelings that can be amplified by the lingering societal stigmas surrounding colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies.
On Ostomy Awareness Day, our awesome Ostomy Specialists lead the way by wearing blue shirts declaring that “Ostomies are Lifesavers.” They also share selfies on social media to show support and solidarity.
Many times, people who have an ostomy have survived severe diseases such as bladder cancer or Crohn’s disease, while others have lived through serious injuries. In many cases, ostomies truly are lifesavers!
This is why we love having a day that celebrates all who have an ostomy and the importance of ostomy surgery for those who need it.
Why Does Ostomy Awareness Day Matter?
Ostomy Awareness Day is about more than awareness—it’s about community. This day is a reminder to support and empower ostomates by sharing accurate information, debunking myths, and encouraging compassion. Here’s why this day is so significant:
- Spreading Awareness and Understanding: Some people don’t know what an ostomy is or why someone might need one. This day is one way to help educate the public and reduce negative stigma about such a life-saving surgery.
- Empowering Ostomates: Ostomy Awareness Day gives people with ostomies a platform to speak out and share their experiences. Hearing stories from those living with an ostomy can be incredibly empowering for those new to this journey.
- Encouraging Involvement for the Cause: The UOAA (United Ostomy Associations of America) and other organizations host events and activities, like the Run for Resilience Ostomy 5K, to raise awareness and funds to support ostomates nationwide.
Helpful Ostomy Resources
Are you ready to learn more? Or maybe you want to find a way to get involved with the cause, like donating to an organization, volunteering, or sharing educational information. Below are some helpful links that are great places to start.
New to Ostomy Educational Articles at 180 Medical
United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA)
180 Medical is a Trusted Ostomy Supplier
Finding a compassionate, reliable ostomy supply company is crucial if you’re living with an ostomy or preparing for surgery. If you’re ready to order ostomy supplies, 180 Medical is here to make your journey as smooth as possible.
We make it a priority to answer all your questions and be your number-one source of help while working with you to find the ostomy products that will fit you best.
Why Choose 180 Medical?
- We’re in-network with Medicare, Medicaid, and a wide variety of private insurance plans.
- We work closely with you and your doctor to help you find the right ostomy products for your unique needs.
- Need medical advice? We can connect you with a team of certified ostomy nurses to provide expert answers to your questions.
- We have real ostomates on staff who can understand your perspective and offer a listening ear with encouragement and support.
- We offer free samples and free shipping, and we make it easy to get started!
At 180 Medical, we’re here for you at every step of your ostomy journey, from the first stages of post-surgery recovery to finding the right supplies for your lifestyle. Contact us today!
