WE PROVIDE SUPPORT TO OSTOMATES, THEIR FAMILIES/FRIENDS VIA:
MEETINGS
ZOOM Meetings offer a variety of topics and formats. Open Discussions allow informal sharing of experiences and information in an accepting and welcoming environment. Meetings present an ideal opportunity for individuals who require surgery to learn about and interact with others living with ostomy surgery. This experience can dispel misconceptions and myths that may be associated with ostomy and related surgeries. Other programs feature presentations by WOCNs, physicians and other healthcare professionals who discuss such topics as physical fitness, nutrition, pain management, social, psychological and sexual concerns, travel tips, surgical alternatives, etc. Our very popular Products Presentations, hosted by representatives from various manufacturers/distributors to showcase new products and services, discuss and answer questions about their purpose and use, and gain feedback about our personal experiences with these products. The result is a true give-and-take, and a learning experience for all. At virtually every meeting, a clinical nurse specialist is available to speak with individuals seeking guidance concerning wound/ostomy issues.
We meet monthly (except for January, February, July and August).
All individuals comprising a person’s support network are welcome to share questions and experiences, including family members, friends, and interested others. We currently meet via ZOOM so please go to JOIN_CONTACT US (see above) to send us an email or call 212-864-1968 for future meeting information.
NEWSLETTER / WEBSITE_oanewyork.org
OANY publishes 8 newsletters a year, which are distributed to members by e-mail and, if requested, by post. Among other items, the newsletters contain contact information about local resources, upcoming events of interest to the ostomy community, news about our organization, including future meeting dates and programming, as well as ads for new ostomy products placed by manufacturers. An important feature is the summary of the previous month’s program. These summaries are particularly valuable to individuals unable to be present at the previous meeting. The newsletters perform a critical function in maintaining a vital connection for members who are unable to attend meetings, but who are nonetheless “kept in the loop” and continue to be included in the OANY community.
The website is able to provide a wealth of information beyond what our newsletter can encompass. It allows visitors to navigate through the website according to the information they desire, and link directly to a multitude of resources outside of OANY. It is a resource freely available for anyone with access to the internet whether they are 'newbies', family members, or health providers who are seeking information. The “Contact Us” Section provides ongoing communication with OANY and allows us to address any submitted questions/concerns. It also provides an opportunity for individuals who may be reluctant to identify themselves to submit questions and concerns in relative anonymity.
EMAIL / PHONE / VISITS AND SUPPORT SPECIALISTS
We are available to ostomates, their families, friends and healthcare providers via our telephone information line, the Contact Us section of our website, and via our zoom meetings. As patients often return home quite soon after surgery, we provide ongoing e-mail and telephone support to facilitate recovery, as an adjunct to the follow-up and support available from the healthcare team. In addition to individualized support, we provide individuals with information and additional resources to enable them to navigate the recovery process with renewed confidence.
For support and information regarding Ileostomies, Urostomies and Related Diversion Surgeries, contact:
Diane Watkin - watkindkl@oanewyork.org