Who we are:

We are a volunteer-based group dedicated to the many people, like ourselves, that have had or may have ostomy surgery, and their families.

Our Purpose:

As an ostomy support group we offer the availability of a safe place to go for education, emotional support, and to offer re-assurance through open discussion regarding ostomy issues with those who have an ostomy, or to those considering ostomy surgery.

What we do:

Our meetings consist of speakers who are experienced, pertinent and interesting. For example, representatives from various ostomy manufacturers come to discuss appliance applications and display new products and their use. Doctors and nutritionists, who discuss the many aspects of ostomy surgery, post ostomy care, new types of procedures, and to answer our questions. Sometimes new ostomates visit because they are seeking answers to their many questions and concerns, while others who have had their ostomy stomas for many years, provide support based on experience and want to share their successes and how they problem-solved issues all ostomates share in common. Additionally, a WOCN (Wound Ostomy Care Nurse) attends our meetings to provide technical support and answer questions as well as offer advice. Educational programs and round table discussions are frequent.

Our Goal:

To provide accurate technical and educational information regarding ostomy surgery and post-care to those who have or are considering ostomy surgery; to provide a safe place where concerns can be freely discussed; to offer practical advice based on personal experiences, and to provide emotional support to one another.

Ostomy surgery brings with it a significant alteration in the anatomy of an individual. It is normal to fear the unknown. Please join us and let us give you the confidence you need to continue a normal life as you once knew it.

Visitor Program:

Call and we will provide an appropriate trained visitor to your home or hospital.

Meetings:

Place:
Vassar Brothers Hospital
45 Reade Place
Poughkeepsie, NY (see map)

Time:
6:30 PM
Second Thursday of every month
(Exceptions: January, August)

Contacts:

Membership/Treasurer:
Paulette Reda
845-297-0587

President:
Jeff Delson
845-463-2141

Newsletter:
Mary Ellen Santoro
845-462-7978

Dina Gleeson:
845-229-8458