Calgary Ostomy Fall 2024 E-News

Hello Calgary Ostomy Community,
As the leaves begin to fall and the season shifts, we are excited to share some wonderful updates and upcoming events with you all. We’ve recently welcomed a surge of new members, and seeing so many of you participating in our events and meetings is fantastic. Here’s some news and a look at what’s coming up:
Step Up For Ostomy Awareness

Our annual Step Up For Ostomy Awareness event on September 21 was a great success! Thank you to everyone who participated.
If you missed it, be sure to check out the highlights on our blog for a recap and photos: https://calgaryostomysociety.com/step-up-for-ostomy-2024-calgary-recap/
Fall Meeting: Ostomy Tips & AGM

Mark your calendars for our next quarterly meeting on October 8 at 7 PM at the Highland Park Community Hall.
We’ll be holding our annual general meeting to discuss chapter business, finances, and more.
Don’t miss the Ostomy Tips presentation by NSWOC nurses Amanda Shelvey and Alyson Wood—learn how to manage your ostomy during the holiday season.
Introducing “Osto-Meet”

We are excited to announce the launch of Osto-Meet, a new social group designed to foster friendships and provide support. Our inaugural meeting will take place on Ostomy Awareness Day, October 5, at 7 PM, at the Canadian Brewhouse. We encourage everyone to wear their Step Up For Ostomy T-shirts as we gather for a relaxed and friendly evening.
This group aims to cater to those who may feel out of place in the young adult group. The age range for participation—whether focusing on individuals in their late 30s to 50s or remaining open to all—will be shaped by the interest of potential attendees. We look forward to seeing you there!
Ostomy & J-Pouch Support Group
The Ostomy & J-Pouch Support Group meets via Zoom on the last Tuesday of each month. This gathering provides a safe space to discuss topics related to ostomy surgery, products, and emotional well-being. Depending on attendance, there may also be a breakout session specifically for individuals with a J-Pouch. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for October 29 and November 26, with the December date to be announced.
RSVP for our October meeting here: https://calgaryostomysociety.com/events/ostomy-j-pouch-virtual-support-group-10-2024/
Save the Date – Christmas Party
Join us for a fun and festive evening at our annual Christmas Party on December 7 at the Kerby Centre. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season with fellow members. More details to come, so stay tuned!
Celebrating 20 Years of Partnership with CB Medical!

During our June meeting, we had the privilege of presenting a special award to Craig Bean from CB Medical, honouring his exceptional partnership with us over the years. His unwavering support for the Calgary Ostomy Society has made a significant difference in the lives of many individuals and families. Over the past two decades, Craig’s commitment has been evident through his involvement in numerous initiatives that have benefited our community.
His remarkable contributions, including matching cash donations at our annual auction to support the Ostomy Youth Camp, have fostered a nurturing environment where pediatric patients can connect, learn, and thrive. Furthermore, his dedication to sponsoring the Step Up For Ostomy event has significantly raised awareness and funds, empowering those living with ostomies. The Friends of Ostomy and Wound Care (FOWC) organization has also greatly benefited from his initiatives, as he generously offers warehouse space for ostomy supply donations throughout Western Canada. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Craig for his invaluable contributions and look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership.
Volunteer Opportunities
Our dedicated marketing volunteer, Tiffany, is in need of assistance! We are actively seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our team in marketing and communications roles. If you have a passion for writing, outreach, creativity, and making a difference, we would love to have you on board. Your support can help us amplify our message and reach more people in our community. If you can lend a hand and want to learn more about how you can contribute, please visit Volunteer with us for more information. Together, we can make a great impact!
Ostomy Youth Camp
This summer, the Ostomy Canada Youth Camp hosted a delightful and successful event, generously sponsored by Calgary Ostomy for several children. Stay tuned for more updates in Ostomy Canada Magazine. Please become a member of our chapter to subscribe and receive free copies of past magazines at our Fall meeting!


Meet Hannah Martin-Spencer
You may have crossed paths with Hannah at the Step Up For Ostomy event. At just 24, she is a passionate ostomate who has agreed to assist with our young adult group!
Many of you might be familiar with Hannah’s insightful articles featured in Ostomy Canada E-News. To learn more about her inspiring journey, be sure to check out her story in the Ostomy Canada Connects newsletter from February 2024, as well as in the upcoming issue of Ostomy Canada Magazine.
Stay tuned for updates and announcements about our next Young Adult event. We hope the youngest ostomates, including our alumni youth campers, will consider joining the group and get involved with this important cause!
Alberta Ostomy Peer Support Groups
- Do you reside in Red Deer? Our longtime member Pat Machan and new ostomate Kurt Koch have established a Peer Support Group in your area! If you live nearby, we encourage you to contact the Ostomy Red Deer Peer Support Group.
- Living in Medicine Hat? The Ostomy Medicine Hat Peer Support Group will host an event for Step Up For Ostomy on October 5. Additionally, they hold monthly support group meetings. For more details, please get in touch with Heather Williamson: Ostomy Medicine Hat Peer Support Group.
- Located in Edmonton? Anne Le, an NSWOC nurse, established a Peer Support Group a few years ago, which has now expanded to include an Ostomy Visitor Program. For details about their meetings or if you need support, please visit their website: Ostomy Edmonton Peer Support Group.
The Ostomy Canada Visitor Program in Alberta
Currently, there are no Ostomy Visitor Programs available in Medicine Hat and Red Deer, though Calgary and Edmonton offer this vital service. If you require support in Alberta, please reach out to our Visiting Coordinators, Kaylee and Leanne, at visiting@calgaryostomy.ca. We have trained Certified Ostomy Visitors who are ready to connect with you in various settings, including hospitals, phone calls, coffee meetings, and Zoom sessions. Referrals from NSWOCs, nurses, and doctors are welcome, alongside self-referrals. For more details, please visit our website: https://calgaryostomysociety.com/find-support/ostomy-visitor-program/.
We appreciate your continued support and involvement in our vibrant community. Please RSVP for upcoming events and find more details at www.calgaryostomy.ca.