Who are we…

Welcome to Fort Wayne’s Ostomy Support Group’s web page. We are associated with the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) and are one of hundreds of ostomy support chapters throughout the US. As a volunteer-based health organization, we are dedicated to providing education, information, and advocacy for people who have had or will have a fecal or a urinary diversion. We are sponsored by the Lutheran Hospital of IN.

What do we do…

As an ostomy support group, we offer moral and educational support to those who are facing or have had ostomy surgery. We do this through our monthly meetings and mailings which include upcoming meeting topics. We also maintain an ostomy visitor’s program for those who have or will have ostomy surgery.

Support meetings…

We meet monthly September through May on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6 PM. Meetings are held at the Cancer Center on Lutheran Hospital’s Campus, 7950 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN (call 260-435-7430 for detailed location instructions). Meeting content includes practical ostomy care information, ostomy supply updates by manufacturers’ reps, guest speakers, and social time. We welcome ostomates, their families and friends. Our meetings are organized and facilitated by Lutheran Hospital’s WOCNs. If school is cancelled by SW Allen County Schools due to weather, our meeting is also cancelled that evening.

How do I join…

There is no application or cost for membership to the Fort Wayne UOAA Chapter. Lutheran Hospital sponsors our chapter and pays our annual dues. We do encourage our members to subscribe to The Phoenix ostomy magazine.

Who do I call when I need help…

Often questions relating to your ostomy can be answered over the phone. Occasionally you may need to make an appointment to see your WOCN. The Lutheran Hospital WOCNs can see you for a prearranged appointment with a physician’s order.

Lutheran Hospital’s WOCNs, Michelle Amick, Carolyn Painter, and Michelle Witte can be reached at 260-435-7430.

What if I am having difficulty paying for my supplies…

Ostomy equipment manufacturers do offer assistance for equipment for the uninsured or unemployed; contact your WOCN for applications. Also Osto Group, www.ostogroup.org will provide available supplies for the uninsured or unemployed for the cost of shipping.