Young Ostomates - Where Are You?!

Hi all! I'm 27 and looking for other young ostomates. I'm in the United States, Georgia to be specific. I'm looking for both local and virtual connections with others in the young adult stage. I have a great local support group, but everyone is over 50 and relatively inactive. When I go through members here local to me, I don't find anyone in my age group. Does anyone have tips on meeting younger fellow ostomates?! Other websites or groups? Right now, I'm looking for friends and community, not necessarily a partner. Thanks!

Check out UOAA - it's our national organization. I'm sure they can guide you in the right direction. We're not alone on this journey of ours.

I've tried, but they have nothing specific for young ostomates. Thanks for the suggestion, though.

50... and inactive? I must be a slug and not know it. What is "active" to you?

I'm only 38, happy to talk, always good to have friends, wherever they are in the world. It would be nice to learn a little about Georgia in the process 🙂

Mr B

My Ostomy Journey: Bruce | Hollister

Yeah, this definitely seems to be a tough one for some reason. I'm in a different age group than you, but I totally get the struggle. There are plenty of people on Instagram, but everyone seems pretty spread out. One group that's trying to build more of a presence is the Young Ostomy Alliance; they're on Instagram too if you want to check them out.

“Active” can mean a lot of different things depending on the person. I know someone in this chat mentioned having a hard time with that word, but honestly, I understand what you're saying. I've run into the same issue with local support groups. The people are kind, supportive, and amazing, but sometimes the lifestyles just don't line up beyond the meetings.

The UOAA is actually holding a conference this August down in Orlando. I've got a younger friend group than most people my age, and while I'm not sure exactly who all is going, it's a great space to connect with others, especially people who are active in all kinds of ways 🙂

Thank you so much for the suggestions and understanding. I'm also hoping to attend the conference for more connections!

Checking our YOA now...thank you!

You all are right, active is relative. Truly, I have no intention to offend anyone; I'm just trying to relay that I leave my house on a daily basis and was previously privileged to be very physically fit -- now I'm back at walking and minor hiking levels -- but hope to get back to many things.

@Bri499, what a joy to see all the activities you engage in. Though I'm not sure I'll ever quite be that adventurous again, I'd like to get close to it! P.S. My mom grew up in Hillsdale, NY, right outside Great Barrington. We go back yearly, so maybe our paths will cross!

No way! I love Hillsdale.
I ski every once in a while at Catamount.

100% let me know if you're ever in town. I'd love to hang out.

By the way, never say never on adventure. 😉