Question:

I had a colostomy operation in October 2020 and have been living in an apartment building where I share a 3- bedroom apartment with a retired male and a younger male who works during the day. The living situation is such that I find it unacceptable due to the conditions that the prime resident has in place that goes beyond necessity. I’ve had to wait until this time due to the length of time it’s taken me to have a somewhat normal life.

My question is, is there such a thing as shared living with other ostomy patients in Mississauga. For example other people who live alone and would appreciate another individual to share living expenses. For instance people who have a home and would be open to sharing with another ostomy patient.

Answer:

Thank you for reaching out to Ostomy Canada’s Ask a Lifestyle Medical Expert. It is understandable that your current living situation may not be ideal, and finding a shared living arrangement with others who understand the challenges of living with an ostomy could be beneficial.

While there may not be a formal network specifically for shared housing among ostomy patients in Mississauga, there are several ways you might explore potential options:

1. Ostomy Support Groups

Connecting with local ostomy support groups, such as those affiliated with Ostomy Canada or local chapters, may help you meet others who are in a similar situation and open to shared living arrangements.

You can find support groups near you through https://www.ostomycanada.ca/find-a-chapter-peer-support-group/

2. Online Community Forums

Platforms such as the Ostomy Canada Facebook group, or other online forums dedicated to ostomy patients, may be a good place to post inquiries and connect with others looking for shared housing.

Although this kind of housing network doesn’t exist formally yet, your inquiry may open the door for meaningful connections—and perhaps inspire others with similar needs to reach out.

Answered by

Andrea Manson (BSN, NSWOC, NCA, Retired Nurse and Ostomy Specialist)
Medical and Lifestyle Advisory Committee
Ostomy Canada Society