February's meeting entailed a visit from Gigi Elkie, Hollister’s representative who did a presentation on Hollister products that are available. Two of our members shared their stories of dealing with other chronic conditions as well as being an ostomate. Hopefully we will be able to highlight these stories at a later date.
Further in the newsletter you will find information about our upcoming Visitor Training that is taking place on April 21, 2007. I am very pleased at the number of members who have indicated that they are interested in taking this training. I have said this before and I will repeat myself by saying that THE VISITOR is the most important part of our organization. A visitor who is willing to offer their support to a new ostomate, attends meetings and keeps up with changes is worth their weight in gold. Please contact one of the Executive if you are interested in being part of this valuable team.
Cathy Zitzelsberger, Visitor Co-ordinator, had a request from an ileostomate who wants to find another ileostomate who is a vegetarian. If you can help out with this request please contact me at 489-2731 and I will help put you in touch with each other.
The UOAC’s 10th Annual Conference is happening August 16 - 19, 2007 in Calgary, Alberta. More information will be available in the Spring/Summer edition of the Ostomy Canada magazine which is due out shortly. Keep this in mind when you are making travel plans. It sure would be great if a number of you joined us at conference. Those Calgarians are ready to educated and entertain. Can’t wait to see what they have planned.
The ETs are distributing our newsletter to new patients which has created a very positive outcome both for our Chapter and the patients themselves. The WRHA has agreed to include our newsletter in the supplies going out to new patients. Both these endeavours give our organization more exposure and gets the word out to the many members who can benefit from our support.
Bonnie Schmidt, representative from ConvaTec will be presenting a new product at our March meeting. Rap sessions have been planned.
Our Annual General Meeting in April is handled quickly and efficiently so that we can proceed with other activities - all designed for your enjoyment. We end our season with a Wine & Cheese party in May.
Till our next issue,
Lorrie
