The Global Ostomy Community: Uniting 13.5 Million Strong

The Beautiful Bag

Episode Summary:

Join LeeAnne Hayden, broadcasting from a snowy New Hampshire loft, for an enlightening solo episode of "The Beautiful Bag Podcast." As we journey through the heart of winter, LeeAnne shares eye-opening statistics that underscore the vastness and diversity of the global ostomy community. With insights gathered from a recent brand awareness consultation, this episode sheds light on the 13.5 million individuals worldwide living with an ostomy, revealing the balance between male and female ostomates and touching on the myriad reasons behind their ostomy surgeries. Tune in for a deep dive into the cultural, healthcare, and individual stories that make up our ostomy community.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Global Ostomy Community: Discover the staggering number of ostomates worldwide and the sense of belonging it brings.
• Gender Distribution: Uncover the nearly even split between male and female ostomates and what it signifies.
• Diverse Reasons for Ostomy: From cancer to IBD and accidents, the many paths leading to ostomy surgery.
• Cultural and Healthcare Variances: How different cultures and healthcare systems impact ostomy care and perception.
• Advocacy and Awareness: The importance of sharing personal stories and how you can contribute to global awareness.
• Resources and Support: A guide to international ostomy organizations offering support, education, and advocacy.

Resources Mentioned:

• United Ostomy Associations of America: ostomy.org
• Ostomy Canada Society: ostomycanada.ca
• International Ostomy Association: ostomyinternational.org
• Colostomy UK: colostomyuk.org
• European Ostomy Association: ostomyeurope.org
• Australian Council of Stoma Associations: australianstoma.com.au
• Friends of Ostomates Worldwide: fowusa.org

(Note: Replace "#" with the actual URLs)

Connect with LeeAnne Hayden:

• Website: leeannehayden.com
• Instagram: [@LeeAnneHayden]
• Twitter: [@LeeAnneHayden]

Subscribe and Review:

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Next Episode Teaser:

February's episodes will be all about love and relationships, just in time for Valentine's Day. Stay tuned for heartfelt stories, interviews, and LeeAnne's insights on navigating relationships with an ostomy.