Calgary Ostomy Society: Spring Events and News Update

Springtime heralds a fresh chapter of activities and support for the members of the Calgary Ostomy Society (COS). With the city beginning to thaw and spirits rising, COS remains steadfast in its mission to offer unwavering support and valuable resources to Calgarians living with ostomy or j-pouch.

In Recent News

Carmen Leclerc, ISWA & Territory Manager for Hollister.

Ostomy Discovery Day, March 19, 2024.

We are profoundly grateful to Carmen Leclerc from Hollister and all the participants who joined us for our inaugural Ostomy Discovery Day on March 19, 2024. It was an enlightening session where attendees discovered the wonders of ceramides. These powerful ingredients, commonly found in renowned skincare products like CeraVe, are also integral to Hollister’s CeraPlus Line of Products. This range includes innovative skin barriers, barrier extenders, and rings designed to enhance ostomy care and help keep skin healthy. We apologize for any technical issues encountered during the event and greatly appreciate your patience and understanding.

A critical update for our members: the Spring 2024 Newsletter was the final printed edition. However, our commitment to keeping you informed continues unabated, with regular email updates on chapter activities forthcoming. Read the update here.

What’s on the Horizon

Educational and Networking Opportunities

The NSWOC Canada National Conference is around the corner, running from May 1 to 5 in Calgary, where COS will engage as proud exhibitors, alongside Ostomy Canada and FOWC. This event is a prime opportunity for further education and networking in the ostomy community.

Volunteer Announcements and Support Group News

We’re thrilled to announce that our dedicated volunteer, Alyson Wood, has completed her NSWOC certification – Congratulations, Alyson! We look forward to her returning to assist with the support group starting in May. For interested participants, the upcoming Ostomy and J-Pouch Virtual Support Group meetings are scheduled for April 30 and May 28. You can RSVP here.

The Calgary Ostomy Young Adults Group has an exciting event planned for April 27, details of which will be shared on our Facebook group soon.

Our executive committee is diligently crafting ambitious plans for our June meeting. We’re exploring a Western theme, promising exceptional cuisine and entertainment. Meanwhile, our AGM will be held over Zoom. Please watch for updates.

Heather Williamson, a valued community member, has relocated to Medicine Hat and initiated a new Peer Support Group. For those in the vicinity, we encourage you to reach out to her at ostomymedicinehat@gmail.com or via Facebook for more information and support. The next meetings will be held on April 18 (Zoom) and May 15 (in person).

Ostomy Visitor Training Program

Join us on May 11 for the next Ostomy Visitor Training Program, facilitated by Kaylee and Leanne. This session is open to existing members for re-certification and individuals interested in becoming volunteers. To become an Ostomy Visitor, please sign up here.

Fundraising and Volunteering Initiatives

Looking ahead, we’re excited for the Charity Auction slated for early 2025, a vital fundraiser for our chapter. In preparation, we’re forming an Auction Committee and need passionate volunteers to help secure quality item donations. For those interested in shaping this event, join us after the Webinar Watch Party for a dinner meeting on April 17 to strategize with auctioneer Sheldon Smithens. RSVP for the meeting here.

Prepare for our significant fundraising event in October: Step Up For Ostomy! Keep an eye out for updates on volunteering, fundraising opportunities, and more. We are currently finalizing the venue details, so watch this space for further information.

We currently have volunteer openings available in both marketing and finance roles. If you have expertise in these areas and are looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to our cause, we would love to hear from you. By volunteering with us, you’ll be able to use your skills for a good purpose and gain valuable experience in the process. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to join our team and make a difference.

Membership and Financial Update

Your continued engagement is invaluable to us. Membership remains at $30 for the year, inclusive of the Ostomy Canada Magazine subscription. Notwithstanding economic challenges, your support is the lifeblood of our services.

Please take note of some financial updates. Beginning in April 2023, Ostomy Canada has raised the magazine contribution from $20 to $25 from our membership fee. Starting in 2024, Ostomy Canada will issue a tax receipt for that amount directly under its Ostomy Supporter program for our Chapter members.

While facing an uptick in the Ostomy Canada Youth Camp fees, we’re hopeful about sponsoring six children this year. Pat will share more details with the parents involved shortly.

To mitigate expenses, we’re making strategic cuts, such as migrating our website hosting to Ostomy Canada—saving an estimated $400 annually. The discontinuation of our printed newsletter will also contribute to cost savings. Any donations to help us maintain and improve our services are greatly appreciated.

We have been without a treasurer for over a year now, so Tiffany will be reviewing the books for 2023. We hope to thank our donors and provide a report at the AGM. In the coming months, Ostomy Canada will manage our donations and tax receipts through the new website.

A Call for Collective Resilience

In these challenging times, we invite all present and prospective members to step into spring with resolve and community spirit. Your participation fortifies our efforts to empower more individuals navigating life with an ostomy.

Thank you for joining us in ushering a healthy and lively spring season for our members and allies alike.

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Together, we can nourish a flourishing ostomy community.

For more details on events, memberships, or donations, please visit our website or contact us through the channels provided in the website footer. Keep blooming, COS family!