When tests confirm intestinal problems that require surgery, their whole world seems to explode around them when the doctor says, "You need an ostomy." If the patient is fortunate enough to have a doctor who is aware of the local ostomy association, he/she will ask the WOC nurse managing the pre-surgery examination to arrange for a visit.
It is only when an experienced person with an ostomy talks to a new person with an ostomy that the problems that seemed insurmountable are gradually chipped away. That is what the local support groups are all about - people with ostomies sharing their experiences with others. Where is the best place to find this information and help? Why, when you attend the monthly meeting of your local ostomy association, of course.
