How to Get Online Ostomy Support During COVID-19

With social distancing measures still being enforced, it's natural to be concerned about finding the physical and mental support you need. We understand how stressful this can be.

The good news is there's no need to feel that you're on your own. There are online communities where you can connect with people who understand what it's like to live with a stoma. In each of the groups featured here, you can share tips, experiences, talk things over, and maybe let off a little steam.

Some of the groups featured here have thousands of members, others are much smaller, so it's worth exploring them and choosing those that meet your needs. One thing's for sure, you're about to meet many helpful people who are happy to listen.

Below we've listed some Canadian ostomy organizations you may find useful.

Support Organizations

Ostomy Canada Society
Ostomy Canada Society is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to all people with an ostomy, and their families, helping them to live life to the fullest through support, education, collaboration and advocacy. Contact Ostomy Canada Society for the nearest Chapter to you.

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada
Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is the only national, volunteer-based charity focused on finding the cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the lives of children and adults affected by these diseases.

We are transforming the lives of people affected by Crohn’s and colitis (the two main forms of inflammatory bowel disease) through research, patient programs, advocacy, and awareness.

Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society is a national, community-based organization of volunteers whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer.

Bladder Cancer Canada
A Canadian patient advocacy organization dedicated to bladder cancer issues. Creating awareness, support and research to create a world where bladder cancer is just a memory.

The Shadow Buddies Foundation™
Since 1995, the Shadow Buddies Foundation has been bringing smiles, hope and companionship to medically challenged children across the country and around the world. Cuddly, plush Buddies tell children that they are never alone, whatever their illness, and can proudly proclaim they have a friend “just like me.” The Ostomy Buddy, featuring a stoma with a detachable pouching system, is available exclusively from Hollister Incorporated.

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC©)
Nurses Specializing in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is a not-for-profit association for over 500 nurses specializing in the nursing care of patients with challenges in wound, ostomy and continence. The Peristomal Skin Assessment Guide for Consumers was created in collaboration with WOCN and designed to help identify common skin problems, provide next steps for care or management and appropriately prompt individuals to seek care or support from a WOC nurse, NSWOC, or healthcare provider.

Online Support

Ostomy Canada Society
Ask An Ostomy Lifestyle Expert
As part of Ostomy Canada Society’s dedication to continually grow our resources and support, we are pleased to welcome you to the “Ask The Ostomy Lifestyle Experts” feature.

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada
Crohn’s and Colitis Canada's Gutsy Peer Support initiative is an email based mentoring and support program for Canadians affected by Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. This program matches experienced individuals (mentors) who have been living with Crohn’s or colitis, or their caregivers, with individuals who are newly diagnosed, facing a change in their diagnosis or life situation, or are caring for someone diagnosed with Crohn’s or colitis (mentees).

Bladder Cancer Canada
Our One2One Peer Support Volunteers offer understanding and help to patients and their caregivers by phone. We do not offer medical advice, but our volunteers can speak from the perspective of someone who has “been there”, and we can help you to find answers to your questions or concerns.

Further Support

If you're looking for more guidance on stoma care, you can find lots of useful information in our Ostomy Learning Center.

Whether you're a product user, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, if you have any questions about Hollister products or services, we can help. Contact Us.