UOAA Discussion Board

Has anyone noticed the "announcement" in the current (Spring 2006) CCFA quarterly on page 3. It's about UOAA and it is called "A New Beginning." The first sentence defines an ostomy as "an opening on the abdomen through which wastes are emptied into a pouch." Isn't that incorrect? Doesn't that definition eliminate all uf us with continent systems that do not empty into a pouch?

I hope the UOAA changes this definition to be more welcoming to a wider group of people. Right now, it may be a "new beginning" but it's not a good one if they can't accurately define an ostomy.

lynnesa

I totally understand what you are saying. Words are just words... Don't feel bad about that definition of an ostomy. I have not worn a bag since I was less than one year old, but I feel as much of a part of this community as one who actually wears a physical bag that collects fecal matter. A new beginning does not have to begin right after a surgery... I lived for years not knowing anyone with what I have. Finding out about this organization's predecessor, the UOA, was my new beginning. It opened up many doors and improved my quality of life. Unfortunately, this day in age, not every message out there can be all inclusive, but it is with its best intentions. Believe me, as a tour guide at a university, I struggle to "include" everyone on my tours, where they could all have different majors. Unfortunately, someone always feels left out, as I see from my evaluations. Anyway, hope you can benefit from this organization. Peace...OUT!