Happy Ostomy Awareness Day

[To Dream a Dream]

Considering the ominous Breaking News briefs that have become so much a part of our lives during this pandemic, don't just be happy today, but also grateful for UOAA & all who have saved, encouraged & supported us thru the trauma & changes we with ostomies have all faced. I am spending my Awareness time as quietly as possible. Oh, the routine activities of daily living (although an appliance change is not scheduled 'til tomorrow am), viewing the bright beauties of autumn from the windows, preparing some of nature's bounty (fall squash) for dinner . . . All things I could not have enjoyed without having had ostomy surgery 43 years ago. I did take time while 'sorting & cleaning out' to reread the UOAA's New Ostomy Patient Guide (an excellent resource for all) & leaf thru the latest back issues of the Phoenix Magazine prior to sending them to FOW/USA for distribution with their supplies to those who will benefit most in our uncertain, often unfeeling world. Be safe. Be happy. And hold fast to your most elusive dreams. Perhaps, someday, you'll find how much they have influenced another searching soul.

[Diane C]

A very nice post, To Dream.

Yes, I noticed that it was Ostomy Awareness Day and I felt I should gear up and do more advocacy again, esp as I live in Arlington, VA. However, I do think that Congress is focused on the election right now so will wait -- although the squeaky wheel gets the attention and perhaps the funding.

Gratitude is a wonderful emotion and it does help. I've been rather overwhelmed by intestinal and other issues of late but they could be FAR worse -- and I've super family members and friends -- and the support up here is invaluable so I'm thankful. Our N. Virginia Support Group also just "zoomed" a support group meeting on Sunday with a nurse who discussed many skin problems. And I FINALLY shipped off a big box of products I can't use to FOW -- a fabulous organization. Nice of you to donate copies of The Phoenix to it.

And I'm off to change my appliance and perhaps I'll do it with a more appreciative attitude.

Thank you for the reminder. Stay safe! Enjoy the fall weather before winter comes. I'm hoping it'll be mild!

[To Dream a Dream]

Hi Diane: Always enjoy your positive messages. Despite your own health challenges, you are always there for others. A real asset to our UOAA Discussion Board! Thank you!

[Diane C]

Thank YOU, To Dream. I regret that my attendance up here has been sporadic. Wish I had more time. And yes, still looking for answers after so many years! But I do appreciate the compliment and am glad others are more consistent in offering good advice. This site is invaluable!

All, take care!

[Sinfulsot]

I wasn't sure if it was the first Friday or Saturday of October.

making a sort of flyby; good to see you Dream

[To Dream a Dream]

Good to see your post, also. The times they are a changin'. Are they ever! And it is so encouraging to be in touch with friends on this Board. Stay safe & happy everyone.