Question: Searching for Ostomy Support Groups in the Yukon for a 69-Year-Old Client with Limited Eyesight
I am looking for support options for my 69-year-old client in the Yukon, who is living with a colostomy bag and has limited eyesight. Living in a small community, she faces several challenges and could benefit greatly from connecting with others in similar situations.
Response: Connecting to Ostomy Support in Remote Areas
Finding support in remote areas like the Yukon can be challenging, but there are resources available. While I couldn’t locate a specific ostomy support group in the Yukon, I recommend the following avenues:
- NSWOC Professional Consultation: Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) can offer specialized assistance. Teresa MacKenzie, a registered NSWOC nurse in the Yukon, may provide guidance and local knowledge on any existing support services. She can be contacted at:
- Phone: 867-334-9330
- Email: MacKenzie@gov.yk.ca
- Chronic Disease Program: This program can offer additional support and resources. They can be reached at:
- Phone: 867-667-5092
- Toll-Free: 1-800-661-0408 ext. 5092
- Email: chronicdisease@hss.gov.yk.ca
- Virtual Support Groups: In the absence of local groups, virtual communities and online support groups can be beneficial. Ostomy Canada Society’s website (https://www.ostomycanada.ca/) offers resources and links to various support groups that might provide remote or virtual assistance.
- Personalized Assistance: Encourage your client to maintain open communication with healthcare providers for personalized advice and recommendations based on her unique needs and circumstances.
Support and connection with others are crucial for adjusting to life with an ostomy. Exploring these resources can offer your client the support she needs, despite the geographical limitations.
Jo-Ann L. Tremblay
THE OSTOMY FACTOR Blog – joannltremblay.wordpress.com
Ostomy Lifestyle Expert Member of Ostomy Canada Society
Medical Lifestyle Advisory Committee Member
Arteast
jo-annltremblay.com
