Supporting local ostomates

Western Bay of Plenty Ostomy Society president Dian Cheyne. Photo: Sam Gardner.

It's a topic that can be very private – living with an ostomy bag after undergoing surgery.

But a local woman wants people to know that there is plenty of support out there for those who have undergone colostomies, urostomies or ileostomies, known as ‘ostomates'.

Western Bay of Plenty Ostomy Society president Dian Cheyne has recently taken on her position, and wants to bring a fresh approach to the role.

'Having a bag can be life-changing, and it is important people have a support group they can call on,” says Dian.

Six years ago Dian was diagnosed with invasive bowel cancer, and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation to treat it.

'I had a bag for nine months. When I had the procedure reversed it wasn't particularly successful for me, so for four years I ended up with no control over my bowel. In 2016 I chose to go back to having a bag.

'Now I have control over my toilet habits and I line dance, swim, walk and can do most things.”

Dian is encouraging people to join the support group for just $20, which includes a magazine three times a year, and a booklet on living with an ostomy.

The group meets often, with a picnic planned for this Saturday at Kulim Park, and more outings scheduled throughout the year.

Dian says more than 500 people in the Bay of Plenty live with an ostomy, and that it doesn't have to affect quality of life.

'Some people can become depressed or don't want to talk about it, even with their family,” she says.

'But if you end up with a bag permanently, it's not the end of the world. It can feel that way, but it's really just the beginning of a new life.”

There are currently around 60 members of the local ostomy society, but new members are always welcome. For more information call: Dian on 5430598 or visit: www.ostomy.org.nz

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