President’s Message Fall 2020

Hello Friends,
2020 has turned out to be a very different & unexpected year. With the emergence of Covid-19, life has drastically changed, revolving around social distancing and wearing masks. It has become very stressful for most people with mental health issues rising to the forefront. Many people are dealing with the burden of isolation, especially our senior population. Those who are immunocompromised may be finding it difficult to navigate this new world.
We hope that you are all coping under these current circumstances. If you need to reach out, we are here to help. Contact one of our NSWOC nurses, vendors or a member of the executive committee.
In the interests of health and safety for COS members, we have decided against face to face general meetings until the new year. We are planning an online Zoom information session, “Ask the Ostomy Nurse,” with Amanda Shelvey, NSWOC (ET), on October 28th at 7:00 pm, and hope you can join us. There will also be an Ostomy Support Group on November 10th at 7:30 pm via Zoom. The Volunteer Visiting program remains active, however, via phone only at this time.
In August, a small workgroup of 3 met at CB Medical to do a quick wrap and ship of FOWC donations destined for needy ostomates in other countries. Loose items and supplies that couldn’t be shipped were removed from pallets, which were secured and wrapped for shipment to Ontario and properly sorted there. The donations will ship to a final destination when that is determined. If you have unneeded ostomy supplies, CB Medical is still accepting donations on behalf of FOWC.
In place of Ostomy Youth Camp this summer, campers connected through a Zoom session. It was a big disappointment to all involved that we were unable to hold camp this year, but safety comes first where health and welfare are concerned. We are hopeful that things return to normal in 2021.
The executive committee and I hope to see you again face to face in the new year.
Until then, stay safe and healthy!
Pat Cimmeck