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Ostomy Greater OrlandoAssociation of

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NEWSLETTER CONTENTS Page 1 OAGO Meeting Announcements and General Information. Page 2 What’s going on at OAGO? - President’s Message - See What Our Member, Shabbir Adam, is Doing Now.

Page 3 - Membership Application & Renewal Form.

Page 4 - Newsletter Ad Prices. - Article: A Change in My Body Helped My Heart Grow. - UOAA’s National Conference Info. Page 5 - Article: How to Choose the Right Carbohydrates.

Page 6 - Local Outpatient Ostomy Clinic Information. - Ostomy Supply Information. Page 7 List of 2017 OAGO Contributors. - Article: Important Ostomy Questions & Their Answers. Page 8 - List of OAGO Officers, Directors, and Advisors. - About Us. - Popular Ostomy Related Websites. - The Ostomates Prayer.

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Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando

The Picture FrameA publication of the

PLEASE DONATE YOUR UNUSED OSTOMY SUPPLIES If you have unused supplies please bring them to our meetings or call Evelyn Vihlen at 407.862.6567 or Jack Vreeland at 407.415.8855. Donated supplies are given free of charge to those without insurance.

MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS

DO YOU HAVE INTERNET ACCESS? If you have internet access you can help reduce our costs by electing to receive the newsletter via email. Please call Shelley at 407.929.3668 or email us at ostomyorlando@aol.com. Thank You.

Affiliated Support Group

www.ostomyassociationofgreaterorlando.com

If you are not a member, please join us. Our low annual dues of $20.00 are not mandatory, but allow us to continue our programs to help others. Donations to the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. are tax deductible.

FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT Evelyn Vihlen, Treasurer

418 Tulane Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 407-862-6567

If not interested in receiving the Newsletter please call or write Evelyn Vihlen

Our fellowship meetings offer an e x c h a n g e o f v a l u a b l e information offered by our speakers, members, and guests. All are welcome, especially supporting family and friends. Coffee is provided and donated treats are always welcome.

Winter Park Memorial Hospital Library, 200 N Lakemont Ave. The Library is adjacent to the parking lot and has large black letters “LIBRARY” above the entrance.

March/April 2017 Circulation 500

IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR AGAIN The Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando cannot continue its programs without your support. Through your membership and contributions we are able to support those facing ostomy surgery and those with ostomies through our meetings, Mentor/Visitation Program, Gift Room, and Youth Rally sponsorship. Membership Application and Renewal Form on Page 3. Thank You for your support.

Saturday, March 18, 2017 @ 10:30 AM Please welcome Anne Maley, PT and Nancy

Gavaghan, CTRS from F.I.T. (Functional Independence Training).

They offer programs on “Fall” Avoidance and other tips to maintain independence.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 @ 10:30 AM NO MEETING

See the President’s Message on Page 2

Premier Online Version Get instant access to The Phoenix magazine by ordering the Premier Online Version. Read the magazine through any web browser on your computer, iPad, or any other device where you can browse the Internet. Annual Premier Online Edition subscription is $19.95. Annual print subscription is $29.95. See ad and on Page 8.

MEETING LOCATION:

MEETING INFORMATION:

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Hello to all my friends!

2017 is already flying by; and we have quite a few new ostomates contacting us for advice and comfort! Just this weekend I had a call from the sister of a brand new ostomate. Even though the sister was a nurse, she had no idea what to say to her sister when that lady said “My life is over!” “I am a professional woman! How can I ever deal with this!?”

The nurse actually thought her sister’s professional life was over!! At that point I had to choose my words very carefully. As a twenty-two year ostomate I actually have kind of forgotten that initial fear and worry as a new patient.

That is why every now and then, I go back to my journal from when I was in the hospital on a liquid diet and thinking, “I will not live to see Spring!” My writing looked like a 100 year old lady instead of a 44 year old!

However, I did survive; quite well in fact!

So I am sharing this note to ask you to get out there and live life! Challenge yourself to do something you did not think you could do! Ready? Set! Go!!!

Remember -----No regular April Meeting!

Shelley Dittmer, President “Work for a cause, not for applause. Live your life to express, not to impress, don’t strive to make your presence noticed, just make your absence felt.” ~ Author Unknown

What’s going on at OAGO ?

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Photo courtesy of Youth Rally

“Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it.”  Albert Schweitzer

SEE WHAT OUR MEMBER, SHABBIR ADAM, IS DOING NOW

By now, most of us are well aware of the charitable work of our member, Shabbir Adam. His profile was featured in our November/December 2015 Newsletter. In 2012, he was diagnosed with bladder cancer and underwent urostomy surgery.

Since retiring, he has dovoted his life to helping those less fortunate. In addition to his mission to help follow ostomates by shipping unused ostomy supplies to cancer patients in the Trinidad, Jamaica, Haiti, and Guyana, he has built over 130 wells all over India in places where they are most needed. The new orphanage building, pictured above, has been a labor of love for Shabbir since 2014. It is now complete and is located in the village of Swamimalai, in the state of Tamil Nadu. India. There are 100 children presently, who are being fed, clothed, and looked after full time.

Shabbir makes a humble request for any financial assistance towards the purchase of 50 double bunk beds with mattresses. The total cost is $20,000.00. He has been able to raise half the amount so far. Shabbir assures that the money is used specifically for the intended purpose and travels to the project location at his own expense. These projects are made possible by the kind and generous donations of people, including his friends and family in Trinidad, USA, and Canada.

If you wish to contribute to this project, please call Shabbir at 407.929.7333 or email him at shabbiradam@hotmail.com.

OAGO Note: Shabbir is an compassionate individual and philanthropist. Our support group is honored to play a small role in his mission by providing him with unused ostomy supplies donated to our Gift Room by caring people.

"Coming in the next issue!!! Blast from the past! Pictures and stories from "The Picture Frame". If you have a favorite "ostomy" story we want to hear it!

Membership Application & Renewal Form Membership in the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. is open to persons with all types of intestinal and urinary diversions, as well as supporting family, friends, organizations, and businesses.

This form may be used for both new memberships and renewals.

NOTE: Renewals are due on January 1 of each year. Thank you for your support.

PLEASE PRINT Name: ______________________________________________ Date: ______________

Address: _______________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________________ State: _____ Zip: __________

Phone: _________________________ Alternate Phone: _________________________

Email Address: __________________________________________________________

Date of Birth (optional): ___________________

PLEASE FILL IN THE APPROPRIATE BLANKS BELOW. Information will be kept CONFIDENTIAL.

Type of diversion(s) - Circle all that apply or check None.

Ileostomy Colostomy Urostomy Ileoanal Reservoir/J-Pouch Continent Ostomy

Other: _______________________________ Date of Surgery: _____________ None: ____

Relationship to Ostomate: Self Spouse Family Member Parent Other: __________________

Dues and Donations: (Please note that donations are tax deductible)

$20.00 Enclosed are my dues for membership in the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc.

_________ Enclosed is an additional donation to support all of our ongoing programs.

_________ Enclosed is an additional donation to support the annual Youth Rally.

_________ Enclosed is an additional donation to support our ostomy supply GIFT ROOM. Our Gift Room provides ostomy supplies for those without insurance in the greater Orlando area.

_________ Total Amount Enclosed

Please make checks payable to the OAGO.

Bring this form and payment to our next meeting, or mail to:

Evelyn Vihlen, Treasurer 418 Tulane Drive Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 - 4024

3“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Helen Keller

A Change in My Body Helped My Heart Grow By Ellyn Mantell

Support Group Leader Compelled to Give Back

Over two and a half years ago, after 22 abdominal surgeries and countless bowel obstructions, my surgeon and I took a big step...a surgery that resulted in the formation of an ileostomy. As you may know from others in your support groups there are three major types of ostomies or stomas, which divert either stool (a colostomy or ileostomy) or urine (urostomy) from the organs nature gave us to do so. An ileostomy is created to enable stool from the small intestine, to leave the body into a "bag" or a pouch that adheres to an appliance secured on the belly.

I was ready for this body-altering procedure, had been ready for years, waiting for the signal that it was the right time to do the ostomy. And in March of 2014, my world became infinitely better, thanks to my wonderful surgeon (Dr. Paul Starker) and my amazing Ostomy nurse (Angela Natale-Ryan.) As part of my recovery, I attended my first Ostomy Support Group at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, New Jersey. It was May, just six-weeks post-op and I was shaky and more than a little confused by the new language I was learning, but was welcomed by the members. I returned in July for the next every-other-month meeting, and I felt so much healthier than I had ever felt possible over the 23 years of that chapter of my life...only a few months after my ostomy!

As providence would have it, coincidentally, our support group was asked to incorporate and as such, would need a president. Although I was the newest member of the group, I knew for certain, that I was the one for that job. I felt there was a greater purpose for me, and I couldn't sleep until I threw my hat into the ring! As with so many of these groups, membership was delighted to have someone volunteer (I prepared a mission statement, outline of items I wished to accomplish, goals and outreach for the community, etc. to show my determination and vision)...all needless, because the minute my hand went up, the job was mine!

I share this health issue with you...something many keep very private, because what I have gained by my openness has come back to me beyond measure. It is an amazing experience because I am "the one" with whom people in our area connect when they are told by their surgeon they should consider an ostomy, or they have awakened from surgery with one. My name is provided by the American Cancer Society or by some of the health "hotlines." I have a chance to make a difference, and that never gets old or tiresome. This summer, I became certified in becoming a "visitor" to those in the hospital recovering from their surgery. In many cases, I am the "face of normalcy" for these patients, and thankfully, I can show them a healthy woman. As many say, we who are ostomates look just like any other person walking into the room. Patients are able to ask me the question they cannot ask the surgeon or nurses....what kind of life will they really have, and what changes will they experience? It is with profound responsibility that I mentor those asking for my support and guidance...it is not lost on me that my positive feelings may very well make the difference in their ability to embrace their new body

We are all unique, and there are many reasons we find ourselves at a place where we need help. Fortunately for me, I am surrounded by loving family and friends, as well as devoted medical personnel. And our Ostomy Support Group has grown beautifully over these past months...I feel so proud of us. We laugh, we cry, we mourn, we fulfill each other's needs as only we can. Walking in each other's shoes is something that brings us together...and assisting new members to take their first and most important step is an amazing accomplishment! My mind, my body and my heart tell me there is more to us than we can ever imagine, until we have to imagine it...and then we watch ourselves grow!

Ellyn is the leader of the Union County Ostomy Support group in Summit, New Jersey: ellynmantell@aol.com.

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Happy Birthday to those born in March & April!!!

601 East Rollins Street Orlando, FL 32803 407-303-5600 extension 110-9271

Wound, Ostomy, Continence Department

“You wanna know how good bacon is? To improve other food, they wrap it in bacon.” Jim Gaffigan

You’re Invited to UOAA’s National Conference!

- Education Sessions - Motivational Talks - Stoma Clinic - Product Exhibit Hall - Special Events - ASG Leadership Academy - Vacation Destination

Visit www.ostomy.org for Registration, Programs, and Hotel Information.

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How to Choose the Right Carbohydrates Colleen Webb MS, RD, CLT, featured on OstomyConnection.com.

All Plants Have CarbohydratesHere’s a typical exchange between a patient and me during a nutrition counseling session about carbs:Me: Are there any foods or food groups that you avoid?Patient: I avoid carbohydrates.Me (internal gasp): OK, so take me through a day.  What do you eat for breakfast?Patient: I eat yogurt with fruit.Me: (scratching head): Hmmm.There’s so much confusion out there about nutrition and carbohydrates in particular. The first time I received any kind of formal education on carbohydrates was during an elective nutrition course in college, so I’m hardly surprised that many people don’t know what carbs are or where they’re found. However, what I do have a difficult time grasping is why anyone would want to completely avoid carbohydrates in the first place.What exactly are carbohydrates and why are they important to our overall health?Plants manufacture carbohydrates via photosynthesis and store them as energy. Contrary to popular belief, all plant foods contain carbohydrates, including fruit, vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds and grains. But they’re also in milk and yogurt in the form of lactose. In fact, this patient’s one cup of plain yogurt topped with one serving of fruit provides roughly 30 grams of carbohydrates.Carbohydrates provide our bodies with energy and are the preferred fuel for red blood cells, the brain and the central nervous system. People who avoid carbohydrates tend to feel tired and irritable, and have a hard time focusing. Eating carbs allows protein to be used for other important tasks besides energy.Did you know even fiber is actually a carb? It’s an undigested carbohydrate that helps fight inflammation, prevent constipation, feed healthy colonic bacteria and promote heart health.Not all carbohydrates are created equal.All of us could benefit from limiting or avoiding added sugar, white flour and other processed carbohydrates. See “How to avoid eating too much added sugar.” Choose unprocessed carbohydrates that are rich in nutrients, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. If your body has a tough time tolerating fiber then peel skins, avoid seeds, cook foods until soft or blend until smooth.Once again, the bottom line remains the same: choose whole foods.

Source: OstomyConnection.com, A Hub for Ostomates. Reprinted with permission.

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PAUL R. WILLIAMSON, M.D., FASCRS, FACS ANDREA FERRARA, M.D., FASCRS, FACS

JOSEPH T. GALLAGHER, M.D., FASCRS, FACS SAMUEL DEJESUS, M.D., FASCRS, FACS

RENEE J. MUELLER, M.D., FASCRS, FACS MARK K. SOLIMAN, M.D., FACS

JOSHUA R. KARAS, M.D.

Phone: 407-422-3790 Fax: 407-425-4358 www.crcorlando.com DOWNTOWN ORLANDO 110 W Underwood St, Ste A, Orlando, FL 32806 NORTH ORLANDO 308 Groveland St, Orlando, FL 32804 HEALTH CENTRAL 10000 W Colonial Dr, Ste 483, Ocoee, FL 34761 EAST ORLANDO 7975 Lake Underhill Rd, Ste 310, Orlando, FL 32822 ALTAMONTE SPRINGS 616 E. Altamonte Dr, Ste 120, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 DR PHILLIPS 7301 Stonerock Cir, Ste 1, Orlando, FL 32819

“Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it…This will miraculously transform your whole life” Eckhart Tolle

“Caring is the essence of nursing.” Jean Watson

Orlando Health Wound Healing Center Services Provided: Comprehensive ostomy and fistula care are offered, as well as pre-operative stoma site marking and teaching. Donations of ostomy supplies are welcomed as we see many indigent and homeless individuals. Location: Orlando Regional Medical Center Orlando Wound Healing Center - Ostomy Clinic 55 West Gore Street, Annex Building, First Floor Orlando FL 32806 Location Note: The Orlando Wound Healing Center is located just west of Main Lane at the intersection of West Gore Street and Kuhl Avenues. The entrance door to clinic is under the drive through canopy. Ostomy Clinic Phone: 321-841-5469 FAX: 321-841-7470 Requirements: Appointment and doctor's script/order required, along with demographic sheet, last progress note. Insurance: Most insurances accepted. Medicare and secondary insurance accepted. Principal Staff: Sally Matson, RN BSN MS CWOCN. Karen Durigan, Nursing Operations Manager.

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Medical Supplies & Services Since 1953

Ostomy Supplies and Medical Equipment

To report abuse, neglect, or exploitation call 1-800-962-2873Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, and Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

2069 Aloma AvenueWinter Park, FL 32792Phone: 407-679-2135Fax: 407-671-7303

830 South Ronald Reagan Blvd Suite 192Longwood, FL 32750Phone: 407-691-3009Fax: 407-691-3021

www.Binsons.comHome Health Care Centers

OUT PATIENT OSTOMY CLINICS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA The Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando frequently receives calls from individuals who are dealing with skin and product issues. Below is information on outpatient ostomy clinics.

Central Florida Wound and Skin Consultants Services Provided: - NP-C/WOCN specialists provides ostomy evaluation and

refitting to homebound or ALF patients in their homes. - We are a mobile ostomy, wound and lymphedema medical

practice caring for Medicare patients only. - Our medical practice also specializes in customized hernia

support options. - Preoperative education and stoma marking. - Postoperative education on stoma management including

pouching system selection and education on self-care. - Assistance with appliance fittings, pouching system failures,

peristomal skin loss, ulcers, and rashes. - Management of complex, high output fistulas. - Services also offered at Assisted Living Facilities in Orange

and Seminole County. Phone and Fax: 407-359-6426 Requirements: No doctor's script/order required. Insurance: We are Medicare providers and do not accept HMO or PPOs. We bill direct to Medicare and secondary insurances. Self pay rates: $175.00 for initial visit, $75.00 for additional visits. We accept payment by cash or check. Principal Staff: Tabassum Merchant MS, WOCN, MSN, NP-C Debbie Moulavi CWON, MSN, NP-C Collaborating Physician: Rita Laracuente, MD About Tabassum Merchant and Debbie Moulavi: Board certified nurse practitioners with a speciality in wound and skin disorders. Additional training through WOCN Program at Emory University. We are also known as NP/ET/WOCN specialist. Able to write prescriptions and provide a medical service for the treatment of ostomy related disorders.

DAYTONA Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center Location: Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center Center for Wound Healing 301 Memorial Medical Parkway Daytona Beach, FL 32117 Ostomy Clinic Phone: 386-231-3615 Appointment and doctor's script/order required. Insurance: Most insurances accepted. This facility is a Medicare assigned provider and accepts Medicare Secondary insurances.

Out Patient Ostomy Clinics in Central Florida continued

PALM BAY Health First Outpatient Wound Center/Ostomy Clinic Appointments on Wednesday’s only. To schedule an appointment: 321-434-6100. Appointment and doctor's script/order required.

OSTO GROUP This not-for-profit organization provides free ostomy supplies to those without insurance. Your only cost is shipping and handling. Call 877-678-6690 or visit their website at www.ostogroup.org.

FRIENDS OF OSTOMATES WORLDWIDE - USA UOAA Update November 2014

The modern ostomy supplies we take for granted in the U.S. and other developed countries may be unavailable or too costly in many areas around the world. People resort to plastic bags, rags, and duct tape, resulting in poor skin, odor, no jobs, and no school. Since 1968, the Friends of Ostomates Worldwide-USA (FOW-USA) has collected new supplies from U.S. individuals and groups and sent them overseas where needed. From Afghanistan and Cameroon to Zambia and Zimbabwe, to over 70 countries, our shipments have made a difference. You can too, with supplies and financial donations: FOW-USA, 4018 Bishop Lane, Louisville, KY 40218. Phone: 502-909-6669 Website: www.fowusa.org

OAGO GIFT ROOM The Gift Room is stocked with donated unused ostomy supplies that we collect and provide, free of charge, to fellow ostomates who are uninsured or underinsured. This service is run solely by the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. on a volunteer basis under Gift Room Director Evelyn Vihlen. For information call 407-862-6567.

Important Ostomy Questions & Their Answers By Amparo Cano, MSN, CWOC and Debbie Walde, BSN, CWOC

Urostomy UTI, Crusting Procedure, Peristomal Skin Problems, Hydration, Diet, Hospitalization and More!

What are the signs and symptoms of UTI in people with a urostomy? Fever, Strong smelling urine, Cloudy urine, increased mucus, retroperitoneal pain, bloody urine new onset confusion (in elderly patient).

What is the crusting procedure which helps to cure irritated or raw peristomal skin? 1. Clean the peristomal skin with water (avoid soap) and pat the area dry. 2. Sprinkle skin barrier powder onto the denuded skin. 3. Allow the powder to adhere to the moist skin. 4. Dust excess powder from the skin using a gauze pad or soft tissue. The powder should stick only to the raw area and should be removed from dry, intact skin. 5. Using a blotting or dabbing motion, apply the polymer skin barrier over the powdered area, or lightly spray the area if you're using a polymer skin barrier spray. 6. Allow the area to dry for a few seconds; a whitish crust will appear. You can test for dryness of the crust by gently brushing your finger over it; it should feel rough but dry. 7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 two to four times to achieve a crust. 8. You may apply a pouching system over the crusted area. Stop using the crusting procedure when the skin has healed and is no longer moist to the touch.

What are some medication precautions for ileostomates? Do not take enteric coated or time-release medications Do not crush or open medications Inform the pharmacist Never take a laxative.

What foods may affect ileostomates? Apple peels, cabbage raw, celery, Chinese vegetables, corn, whole kernel, coconuts, dried fruit, mushrooms, oranges, nuts, pineapple, popcorn, seeds.

What is the push-pull technique? Rough removal of your skin barrier wafer can tear out hair on the peristomal skin. Pulling out hair causes folliculitis, infection of the hair follicles, and is characterized by red, sore, itching and eventually weepy skin. It can also look like a pus-filled or open pimple. Never pull your skin barrier wafer off but instead hold wafer in place while pushing your peristomal skin in toward your body. This method is far more gentle to your skin.

When should I seek medical assistance? You should call the doctor or ostomy nurse when you have: 1. severe cramps lasting more than two or three hours 2. a deep cut in the stoma 3. excessive bleeding from the stoma opening (or a moderate amount in the pouch at several emptyings) 4. continuous bleeding at the junction between the stoma and skin m. severe skin irritation or deep ulcers 5. unusual change in stoma size and appearance o. severe watery discharge lasting more than five or six hours 6. continuous nausea and vomiting; or the ostomy does not have any output for four to six hours and is accompanied by cramping and nausea (ileostomates only.)

What foods that cause gas? Some foods cause excess gas, so these may need to be reduced or avoided. Foods such as beans, hard boiled eggs, fish, melon, milk products, onions, spicy foods, asparagus, cauliflower, cabbage family, and carbonated beverages cause flatus. Some behavioral changes to reduce flatus include avoiding drinking through a straw, smoking, and chewing gum.

What are peristomal skin problems? A study revealed that 61% of people with an ostomy have a peristomal skin problem as assessed by a WOC or Ostomy Nurse. The primary cause of skin problems was from effluent coming in contact with the peristomal skin. Body shape and skin type are as individual as personality - some people can establish a good seal between the skin and the barrier, while others may find it a challenge getting a tight seal to avoid leakage and may need a little extra help to make their ostomy appliance fit securely and to care for peristomal skin.

How do you replace fluids and electrolytes? A rule of thumb is to drink a glass of replacement fluid each time pouch is emptied. Try replacement drinks such as sports drinks, fruit or vegetable juices (V8), broth, or Cera Lyte. Electrolytes (sodium and potassium) are lost when the body loses a lot of water. Foods containing potassium are orange juice bananas and tomato juice. If diarrhea is caused by antibiotics or bacterial imbalance, replace the normal intestinal flora (bacteria) with yogurt, buttermilk, acidophilus.

What are some hospitalization tips for ostomates? Never assume hospital personnel know the difference between ostomy types. Ask if the hospital has an ostomy nurse. If they do, call them and let them know you're an ostomate and you'd love to just meet them even if they do not need to be involved in your immediate care. Never assume they have ostomy supplies you use in stock. Always keep an emergency supplies kit ready in your closet full of everything you need for at least five changes of your ostomy appliance during an unexpected stay. Bring a warm bathrobe. Hospitals are kept very cool to keep them sanitary. Never assume the medications they give you are correct.

Can I skip meals from time to time? No, it increases watery stools and gas.

I wasn't lactose intolerant before surgery but I am now. Is this normal? Yes.

What can I eat to decrease diarrhea? Tapioca, toast, applesauce, bananas, boiled rice and peanut butter.

Can I go swimming? Yes! UOAA has a swimming with an ostomy toolkit: Facts and your rights. You should not be denied access to a pool facility.

Is it important to know what portions of my bowel that was removed? Yes. This is important re: your diet, meds, and absorption of foods.

Where can I get detailed information on diet, etc.? United Ostomy Association of American has a very good Diet and Nutrition guide at www.ostomy.org.

“A best friend is like a four leaf clover, hard to find, lucky to have..” Author Unknown

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Florida Hospital - Programs

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We thank our OAGO members and those named or anonymous below who gave additional support to our programs in 2017.

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THE OSTOMATES PRAYER Oh Lord, as we have been reborn, let us multiply our good fortune and share it with those ostomates who do not know how good the life you have given us can be. Let us vow in the years ahead to renew the work of our group, as you have renewed our lives. We thank you for our lives, for the mutual support of each other, and for the chance you have given us to help others. Amen. Via the Clermont County Chapter, the Batavia OH Chapter, and Indianapolis IN Chapter 88

Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando

President Shelley Dittmer 407.929.3668 ostomyorlando@aol.com

Vice President Position Vacant Secretary Mary Martin ostomyorlando@aol.com Treasurer Evelyn Vihlen 407.862.6567

Officers

Bob Woodrow Website Editor 407.297.8053Evelyn Vihlen Gift Room Director 407.862.6567 Lori Cohen Advisor Past President 407.399.8371 Patrick Gessel Newsletter Editor Past President Past Vice President 801.558.3074 Marie McDuff Advisor Past Secretary

Stephanie Crane Youth Rally Advisor

Board of Directors

POPULAR OSTOMY RELATED WEBSITES www.ostomy.org United Ostomy Associations of America (800-826-0826) is an association of Affiliated Support Groups. UOAA serves people with ostomies and other intestinal and urinary diversions through its affiliated support groups. UOAA is a member of the International Ostomy Association. Their website has a large discussion board with over 10,000 topics posted by ostomates. Individuals can join UOAA simply by joining the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando.

www.ostomyassociationofgreaterorlando.com Our website contains information on our support group including meeting calendar, directions to our meetings, new member application, useful links, list of ostomy suppliers, helpful articles, and much more.

ostomyconnection.com OstomyConnection is an online resource to find the very best support, events, products, and advice for the ostomy community. We help ostomates stay connected to the stories and topics that affect our daily lives.

www.Ostomy.Inspire.com The Inspire Ostomy Support Group is a great way to meet and connect with a community of people who understand what you’re going through. ConvaTec partnered with Inspire to create this social network where people with ostomies can gain emotional and informational support.

www.c3life.com A website dedicated to helping people with ostomies live their lives to the fullest. Supported by Hollister Inc., c3life.com is part of Hollister’s mission to help make life more rewarding and dignified for those with ostomies.

www.meetanostomate.com Provides a free collection of real-life tips and tricks from ostomates.

www.ostomyland.com Has provided ostomy support since 1998, including interactive support, chat, blogs, lifestyle guidance, lists of ostomy product manufacturers, and ostomy undergarment and accessory manufacturers.

http://uncoverostomy.org Uncover Ostomy is an entirely online awareness campaign sparking positive conversation about ostomies. Spokesperson and Founder, Jessica Grossman shares positive stories, thought provoking images, and ways for you to spark this conversation.

http://weneedideas.ca IDEAS, Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society.

www.google.com Type “youtube” in the google search box, then type “ostomy” in the youtube search box. All the audio/visual guidance you could ever want.

http://www.veganostomy.ca/ Find the latest ostomy product reviews, friendly how-to's and support. Including topics about Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis, and living a vegan lifestyle.

ABOUT US: The Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. is an IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable corporation in the State of Florida with “umbrella” status under our parent company, United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc. We are an all volunteer support group dedicated to assisting people who have or will have intestinal or urinary tract diversions by providing emotional support, family support, educational services, advocacy, and promoting the services of this organization to the public and professional communities.

IMPORTANT NOTICE Articles and information printed in this newsletter are not necessarily endorsed by the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. and may not be applicable to everyone. Please consult your doctor or WOC Nurse for medical advice that best suits your specific situation.

THE PHOENIX, UOAA’s MAGAZINE Also available as an online version for $19.95/year. You can subscribe by using the form on this page or visiting their website at www.phoenixuoaa.org.

Physicians Thomas B. Blake III, MD Sergio W. Larach, MD, FACS, FASCRS Renee Mueller, MD FASCRS FACS Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses Florida Hospital Sloan Bartlett, MSN RN CWOCN 407.303.5600 Extension 110-9271 Florida Hospital: Winter Park Memorial Hospital Terry Barton, BSN RN CWOCN 407.646.7523 Orlando Regional Medical Center Orlando Wound Healing Center Donna Sellers, BSN RN CWON 321.841.5469

Advisors