The Calgary Ostomy Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with ostomies and j-pouches, along with their families. Registered under the business number 119218071RR0001, it operates as a self-governing, volunteer-driven health service agency affiliated with the Ostomy Canada Society.

Mission and Purpose

The Society's mission is to help people with ileostomies, colostomies, urostomies, and j-pouches live life to the fullest through support, education, collaboration, and advocacy. It provides resources to aid adjustment to ostomy surgery's physical and emotional challenges, promoting improved quality of life for ostomates in the Calgary area.

Programs and Services

Ostomy Visitor Program

The Calgary Ostomy Society maintains an Ostomy Visitor Program consisting of trained and certified volunteer visitors who themselves have ostomies or j-pouches. This peer support program assists patients before and after surgery, alleviating emotional and psychological burdens and facilitating return to normal physical, social, and economic activities.

Support Groups and Events

The organization hosts quarterly meetings featuring healthcare professionals, guest speakers, and presentations of new ostomy products, offering opportunities for community connection and education. It also runs support groups including the Ostomy & J-Pouch Support Group and a program for young adults aged 18 to 40 with bowel or bladder diversions. Additionally, members can participate in national events such as the Step Up For Ostomy fundraiser and attend the Ostomy Canada Youth Camp.

Education and Publications

COS provides educational resources such as quarterly newsletters and publications to keep members informed about ostomy management, coping strategies, and advances in care. Members receive a subscription to the bi-annual Ostomy Canada Magazine, enhancing their access to current information and community news.

Membership and Funding

The Society is a member-driven nonprofit relying primarily on annual membership dues and donations to sustain its operations. Membership, which costs CAD 30 annually, includes affiliation with both the Calgary Ostomy Society and the national Ostomy Canada Society, providing access to support services and publications.

Organizational Structure

The Calgary Ostomy Society is volunteer-run with medical advisers and functions as an educational health service agency. It is recognized for its commitment to collaboration and advocacy on behalf of ostomates and j-pouchers in Calgary, fostering a supportive community for individuals adapting to life with ostomies.

This overview reflects the Calgary Ostomy Society’s role as a vital resource within the ostomy community in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

[1] https://calgaryostomysociety.com [2] https://calgaryostomy.ca [3] https://calgaryostomysociety.com/ways-to-give/ [4] https://calgaryostomy.ca/about/ [5] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-119218071RR0001?lang=en