National Stomal Therapy Week – June 23 – 29, 2025
More information at stomaltherapy.au/australian-stomal-therapy-week/
Ostomateship merchandise can be purchased from Redbubble, link: https://www.redbubble.com/people/AASTNmerch/shop?asc=u
Here are the key messages:
Living with a stoma is not just about adapting, it’s about thriving.
Stomal Therapy Week is an opportunity to raise awareness,
reduce stigma, and promote inclusivity in for ostomates across
New Zealand/ Aotearoa and Australia.
We honour the journey of people with stomas and recognise
those who support them with compassion and expertise.
Celebrating Stomal Therapy Week with gratitude for the incredible
resilience and strength of people with stomas worldwide.
You are more than your stoma—your strength, resilience, and
journey inspire us all. Ostomateship means you are not alone—
we are here to support you every step of the way.
Happy Stomal Therapy Week to all who make a difference !
Stomal Therapy Week is an opportunity to highlight the crucial
role of those who support people with stomas.
Let’s recognise the contribution made by families, carers,
ostomy associations, industry, stomal therapy nurses and
other members of the health care team for empowering
ostomates with knowledge, support and care.
Expressing gratitude to the supporters of ostomates and
acknowledging your invaluable role in providing emotional
support, practical assistance, and encouragement. Your
contributions have not gone unnoticed and are deeply
appreciated.
Happy Stomal Therapy Week !
Reflecting on the importance of education and empathy.Stomal Therapy Week highlights the importance of education,
advocacy, and quality stoma care, ensuring that ostomates
receive the support they need to live confidently. It also
acknowledges the role of all supporters who empower
ostomates to manage their stomas with dignity.
From awareness to advocacy, Stomal Therapy Week reminds
us of the importance of inclusive healthcare and support for all.
Wishing everyone a meaningful Stomal Therapy Week !
Embracing the mutual bonds of respect, equality and dependability
between ostomates and those that support them.
For Ostomates:
You are more than your stoma—your strength, resilience, and journey inspire us all. Living with a stoma is not just about adapting; it’s about thriving. You are not alone— we are here to support you every step of the way.
For Stomal Therapy Nurses: Your expertise, compassion and dedication transform lives every day. Thank you for empowering ostomates with knowledge, confidence and dignity. Your work makes a difference beyond measure.
For Supporters:
Expressing gratitude to the supporters of ostomates and acknowledging your
invaluable role in providing emotional support, practical assistance, and
encouragement. Your contributions have not gone unnoticed and are deeply
appreciated.
Join us this Stomal Therapy Week as we celebrate the incredible impact of
stomal therapy nurses.Stomal therapy nurses improve quality of life by providing expert
clinical advice, education, support, problem solving, and
coordination of care for stoma, fistula, continence and wound
management.
Their expertise, compassion and dedication transform lives
every day and make a difference beyond measure.
“Imagine! What can you be?’ Stoma is derived from the Greek word meaning ‘body opening’. In our world a stoma is a surgically made hole in the abdomen that allows body waste to be removed through the end of the bowel into a collection bag. There are some 55,000 people in Australia and 1500 in Tasmania living with a stoma. There are basically 3 types of stoma; colostomy (bowel), ileostomy (small intestine) and urostomy, (bladder) Ostomy Tasmania Inc. is a registered charity that administers the distribution of all medical products that those with a stoma require. The Stoma Appliance Scheme is approved under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and funded by Medicare, which has been the case for many years.” ~Ross de Little, President Ostomy TAS
Hi, my name is Jess and I have an ileostomy.
My surgery was on 13/07/2021 and I call my stoma “Romi the Stomi”
In the beginning, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, which led to fistulating Crohn’s disease. I had had some 100 procedures on perianal fistulas with a never-ending array of drains and setons inserted into my bottom; the pain and discomfort were horrific, both physically and mentally. I was booked in for laparoscopy pan prolectomy surgery and although I had endured a lot, I was more concerned at the time about having a bag on my tummy for life! But I needed the operation and, therefore, had to accept the challenge as I knew it would change my life in a positive way.
Waking from surgery, I looked down to see my new body part. It was confronting, even though I was aware of what I was about to see!
After several re-admissions, I began gaining strength, both mentally and physically, and by mid-September, I was back in the gym! My passion for life was stronger than ever; I was pain-free, and my mind was the clearest it had been in a very long time.
I commenced Pilates as I really wanted to restore my core to its former strength. I had made some huge life changes!
Body confidence plays a big role in the acceptance of an ostomy. Education is paramount and, of course, removing the stigma of talking about wee and poo as they form part of our bodily functions.
Ostomy Tas performs an amazing role, ordering online is easy, and the staff and volunteers are compassionate and caring.
Wow! What a legend this Romi girl is, she has literally changed and saved my life. There are just so many positives and I really feel a huge weight has been lifted from my body and mind.
Other Notices
Other
MyState no longer accepts cheques
MyState Bank cheque issuing facility has changed. They no longer accept cheques drawn by their members (after November 29 2024). If you are inconvenienced by this policy we recommend those who currently bank MyState to consider the following: 1. Obtain a Money Order...
Ostomy Support Bears
If you are interested in purchasing an Ostomy Support Bear (particularly good for educating children with stomas) please contact Kelly Moss via details below (WA Ostomy). Kelly will happily post direct to you (at cost price only). This initiative is completely non...
Me+ Recovery program
The me+™ recovery series, provides information and support about the importance of movement and physical activity after ostomy surgery. Too many people are worried about harming themselves by doing physical activity, when in fact there are so many benefits to being...
Medicare details now a prerequisite
Services Australia now requires us to disclose full Medicare Number details to join up new members (including the reference number located in front of your name on the card and the expiry date). The Medicare reimbursement we receive for the monthly claim we make to...
Notification service for eParcel delivery, and collects
Ostomy Tasmania use eParcel delivery with Australia Post. This does not alter the time parcels leave our office (ie. Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday). However, Australia Post now handles the notification service for orders requiring parcel delivery via mobile SMS....