After being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 10, I underwent temporary ostomy surgery a year later, which left me with an ileoanal pull-through. I would eventually undergo multiple bowel surgeries before receiving my permanent ileostomy in 2011. Along the way, I experienced medical trauma, family dysfunction, and years of isolation and shame. As a child, I lacked the peer support, education, and community that every young ostomate deserves.

Everything changed when I found the Calgary Ostomy Society and Ostomy Canada. Their support, education, and friendships helped me regain confidence, manage the challenges of living with an ostomy and short bowel syndrome, and discover a renewed sense of purpose. Today, I'm proud to volunteer with both organizations so others never have to feel as alone as I once did.

Every dollar raised through Step Up for Ostomy helps provide education, advocacy, and life-changing peer support for people living with an ostomy across Canada. Thank you for helping ensure that today's children and adults receive the support I wish I'd had in 1992.