What to expect
There are at least 1.3 million people in the world living with a stoma.1
Thousands more will have ostomy surgery, each year.2 For many, ostomy surgery is a new beginning.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Even if your surgery is anticipated, facing the news that you need to have an ostomy is difficult. You may feel overwhelmed at this time, but it is important to know that you are not powerless. One of the ways you can take charge of your life right now is by learning as much as you can.
There is plenty of information, help, and support available. Often, support begins before surgery, then continues in the hospital with a nurse who specializes in ostomy care. It can also continue long after your surgery. You can join any one of the many organizations that provide resources and information. And you may want to recruit a spouse, relative, or friend to learn about caring for an ostomy along with you.
References [+]
- An overview of the ostomy market and ConvaTec’s ostomy model. Global Business Intelligence Analysis 2004. October, 2004. Data on file, ConvaTec
- Digestive Disease Center page. Cleveland Clinic Web site. http://cms.clevelandclinic.org. Accessed November 27, 2007.