By Lisa Gausman – Camp Co-Administrator
The 2025 Ostomy Canada Youth Camp has officially wrapped up, and what a phenomenal week it was! From our dedicated staff and enthusiastic volunteer mentors to the vibrant mix of returning and first-time campers, everything came together to make this our best camp yet—according to campers and leaders alike.
This year’s camp held special meaning as we celebrated the 40th anniversary of Ostomy Canada Youth Camp. Months of thoughtful planning and coordination by co-administrators Lisa Gausman and Janet Paquet resulted in a truly memorable week that honoured the spirit and legacy of the program.
We were thrilled to welcome ten new campers to the Youth Camp family. This year also marked the smallest graduating class in camp history—just one incredible young woman. Mady, who has attended for eight years, received a heartfelt send-off with all attention centered on her. Her light shone brightly as we celebrated her journey.
Held at the fully accessible Easter Seals Camp Horizon, the camp provided an inclusive environment where all campers could participate in every activity, regardless of physical ability. Whether it was conquering the climbing wall, joining a campfire sing-along, or facing fears on the giant swing, everyone was encouraged to challenge themselves. One camper, for example, overcame a three-year fear of the giant bungee swing—a feat celebrated by thunderous applause.
Moments like these reflect the heart of our mission: empowering young people with ostomies or related surgeries to grow in confidence, community, and joy. The friendships built here are deep and lasting. Campers eagerly count down the days to reunite each summer, and tears flow freely when it’s time to say goodbye.
We offer our heartfelt thanks to the donors and sponsors who make this week possible. Whether you contributed funds, sent supplies, or donated handmade gifts like teddy bears or hats—your support makes a real difference.
Be sure to watch for the Winter 2025 issue of Ostomy Canada magazine, which will include in-depth coverage of this year’s camp and showcase stories and photos of the campers’ incredible experiences.
Soon, we’ll also share a link to a photo gallery capturing all the smiles, laughter, and moments of triumph from the week. Get ready to feel inspired—and don’t be surprised if you catch yourself grinning from ear to ear.
If you have any questions about Youth Camp or want to find out how you can support the 2026 session, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’re building something truly special.
2025 Camp Sponsors
| Sponsor | Contribution | Applied To |
|---|---|---|
| Hollister | 1 camper registration, product | Darcy, Waterdown, ON |
| CovaTec | 1 camper registration, product | Cedric, Winnipeg, MB |
| Coloplast | 1 camper registration, product, water bottles, and backpack kits with stoma bunnies | Saige, Saige, ON |
| Best Buy Medical | 1 camper registration | |
| Ten Aces | Camp hats with birthday hologram stickers, $1,000 | General support |
| Mer’s Bears | Stuffed bears | n/a |
| Mckin Health | Sponsorship of camp t-shirts | n/a |
| Red Leaf Medical | Catheters (Catheters Plus) | n/a |
| Safe n’ Simple | Product | n/a |
| Heather Orsted Fund | $1,000 restricted registration support | Solomon |
| Shane Banfield Fund | Restricted registration and travel costs | Violet |
| Bravery Bags | Pouch covers (25) | n/a |
| Osto-Me (Paula Sojo) | Pouch covers for Mer Bears | n/a |
| Stoma Swag (@Melanie) | Pouch cover stickers | n/a |
| Melodie Blair | Camp buttons | n/a |
| MedLine | Lip balm for campers | n/a |
| NSWOC | $800 | General support |
Ostomy Canada Youth Camp 2025 Gallery
