The WNC Ostomy Support Group has been organized to assist people living with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy by providing information, support, advocacy and collaboration in a supportive group setting. The group is open to ostomy patients as well as their families and caregivers. We also welcome those who are contemplating ostomy surgery. Each meeting is facilitated by certified ostomy nurses and other health care professionals who lead the discussions and answer questions. We urge you to join us and to be encouraged by those who have journeyed down the same road.

Meeting time and place

The 3rd Monday of the month at 5:30 pm.
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Parish Hall
18 Jackson St., Sylva, NC 28779 (see map)
Contact Aimee Quillen or Jody Burtner at ostomywnc@gmail.com

Meeting facilitators

Aimee Quillen and Jody Burtner are both Registered Nurses and Certified Ostomy Nurses. Additionally, we have the support of local health care givers and physicians.

Topics discussed at meetings

• Embracing a new lifestyle with an ostomy
• Health issues
• Mental Health
• Additional surgeries
• Medical supplies
• Tips for travel
• Socialization with an ostomy
• Healthy diets
• Physical exercise, sports
• Remaining active

Key Questions

Whom will I see at one of our meetings?
You will meet other people who have an ostomy. At times their family members or care givers will attend also.

What will I learn by attending a meeting with this ostomy support group?
We do not have a set schedule for topics but arrange our discussions as needed and suggested by the attendees.

Do I need to share all of my information with the group?
The group members do not have to share any information they do not wish to reveal. This is a private, closed group.