Step Up for Ostomy 2024 Recap

Uniting for Awareness and Change Across Canada!

This year, October 5th marked a significant date for ostomates across Canada as we celebrated Ostomy Awareness Day with the Step Up For Ostomy campaign. This annual effort is an opportunity to unite our community, promote ostomy awareness, and raise vital funds to support those who live with an ostomy.

A Nationwide Effort

Ostomy Awareness Day was abuzz with events from coast to coast. Cities like Calgary, Vancouver, Regina, and Moncton held inspiring awareness walks, while new locations like Medicine Hat and Chatham stepped up to join the cause. We’re thrilled to welcome them into our growing network of awareness champions!

Returning groups such as Halifax and Ottawa hosted public awareness events, while Saint John organized a small, informal gathering. Janet Paquet from Hamilton also participated in a public run that raised much awareness about what an ostomy is (see pic below).

While many local groups organized awareness walks to build momentum, our intimate peer support groups, including those in SW Nova Scotia and Medicine Hat, opted to host hospital awareness booths to assist individuals seeking support and information directly. Medicine Hat hosted a Charity BBQ in collaboration with Wellwise, while SW Nova Scotia included a silent auction at their booth. Witnessing our affiliated groups elevate awareness efforts this year has been truly inspiring!

Step Up For Ostomy 2024 - Campaign Progress

Fundraising Successes

Thanks to the collective efforts of our sponsors, teams, and individual fundraisers, we have raised an impressive $51,322 so far—just over half of our ambitious $100,000 target. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, including the groups and chapters that chose to support us through donations and sponsorships instead of traditional fundraising, such as Vancouver Ostomy.

This year, our sponsors have played a crucial role by contributing $22,000 toward our goal. We would like to recognize the significant support from our diamond sponsors: Hollister, Coloplast, and Wellwise.

Top 5 Fundraisers

This year’s fundraising campaign was spearheaded by a group of outstanding individuals, who are not only committed volunteers but also deeply passionate about our mission:

Bill Power, Halifax – $4,000
Carly Allen, Vancouver – $3,200
Tiffany Shorson, Calgary – $1,105
Janet Paquet, Hamilton – $675
Jacqueline Bloom, Moncton – $650

Their dedication and generosity have made a significant impact.

Top 5 Teams

A heartfelt thank you to our local chapters and peer support groups for stepping up this year. A special shout-out goes to our newest peer support group in Medicine Hat for their remarkable efforts!

Ostomy Halifax – $5,225 (1st Place)
Calgary Ostomy – $3,380 (2nd Place)
Ostomy Saskatchewan – $3,325 (3rd Place)
Ostomy Moncton – $2,420 (4th Place)
Ostomy Medicine Hat – $1,857 (5th Place)

Please visit our Just Giving page for those keen on more details about our fundraising teams and contributions. A comprehensive write-up will also be featured in the Winter 2025 Ostomy Canada Magazine for further insights and stories.

Is your fundraising page connected to your team? If you haven’t linked them yet, you can find instructions on how to do this here.

Celebrating Community and Raising Awareness

Events like the Step Up For Ostomy campaign not only draw attention to important issues but also foster a sense of community among ostomates. This year, Calgary’s event included a fun ostomy model photoshoot, showcasing the creativity and spirit of participants. Read more about it here.

Ostomy awareness is crucial; it helps break down barriers, reduce stigma, and educate the public about living with an ostomy. By coming together, we’ve made strides in raising awareness and funds to support the needs of ostomates across Canada.

We look forward to continuing this momentum and achieving our fundraising goal. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and shared their stories. Together, we’re making a difference!

Look for future events and initiatives for more updates and ways to get involved. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the community, your involvement is invaluable. Let’s continue to raise awareness of ostomy issues and support each other!