If you’ve followed me for a while, you know my story.

I lived with ulcerative colitis for more than 20 years before surgery changed my life and I became an ostomate. It wasn’t an easy road, but it led me to the work I do today.

I’m proud to serve as an Ostomy Canada Society Ambassador and Vancouver Chapter Visitor Coordinator, supporting people who are preparing for surgery, newly adjusting to life with an ostomy, or trying to rebuild confidence and independence afterward.

One of the most powerful things we can offer someone in that moment is simple:

connection with someone who understands.

That’s why I’m stepping up for Step Up for Ostomy.

Funds raised help support education, advocacy, and peer support programs across Canada — including the Visitor Program, where trained volunteers connect with people facing ostomy surgery or recovery.

It also helps support something incredibly special: Ostomy Canada’s youth camp programs.

For many kids living with an ostomy or bowel disease, camp is the first place they meet others just like them. It’s a place where they can swim, laugh, make friends, and just be kids — without worrying about being different.

That kind of experience can be life-changing.

If my journey has ever inspired you or helped you understand life with an ostomy a little better, I would be incredibly grateful for your support.

Every donation helps strengthen the community and programs that support ostomates across Canada.

Thank you for stepping up with me. 💜