The Northwest Arkansas Ostomy Support Group is a monthly group open to anyone with an ostomy, preparing for an ostomy or caring for someone with an ostomy.

Sometimes after certain cancer treatments, an ostomy is required. “An ostomy (or stoma) is a surgical opening made in the skin as a way for waste products to leave the body” (American Cancer Society). Types of ostomies include colostomy, ileostomy and urostomy.

Getting an ostomy can be a big adjustment in life, and that’s why it’s important to have support. The NWA Ostomy Support Group offers peer support and education to people in the community who are living with or preparing for an ostomy. Group members can share their own experiences and offer advice that could benefit other patients or caregivers.

“The Northwest Arkansas Ostomy Support Group meets the diverse needs of individuals living with urinary and fecal diversions," said Diana Gallagher, MS, RN, CWOCN, CFCN. "Adjusting to living with an ostomy is not without challenges and this group is able to help individuals and families meet those challenges head on. From the full hour of general education before every meeting, to an interesting variety of meeting topics, to social events, and the care closet, this group sets a very high bar for groups across the country. I am so proud of our leadership team, dedicated CWOCNs at every meeting and our volunteers that make our group a reality. Living with an ostomy should be about living life to the fullest and through education and support, this group helps individuals do just that.”

The upcoming NWA Ostomy Support Group will meet Sunday, July 21 from 2-4 p.m. at Hope Cancer Resources. If you or someone you know would like to attend NWA Ostomy Support Group meetings, please contact Anne Hartney, NWA Ostomy Support Group President at 479-903-3541 or Diana at 479-530-7193.

The NWA Ostomy Support Group is a member of the United Ostomy Association of America. Visit nwaostomy.weebly.com to learn more about the group.