Does anyone ever organize any group travel or group meet-ups for folks like us? Has anyone ever found or attended anything like that?
lagal2025
Jan 02, 2026 3:17 pm
Ben38
Jan 02, 2026 4:39 pm
Yes, in the UK, though the wrong side of the world to you, we have regular meet-ups over here, and ostomy companies arrange them too. I go to around 10 events a year and could attend more if I wanted.
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Posted by: Irjosh
I just wanted to tell all the users of this site that I really love having the opportunity to express my feelings here. I'm positive that many feel the same. I wish that all here come out of the experience you have here will be like mine. Support and understanding from others with issues similar like each other will help us all and give the relief we all crave, well, I'm selfish. I'm here because I need support. And I find enough here to help in the tough times. Thank you. I really mean it.
warrior
Jan 02, 2026 5:00 pm
UOAA = United Ostomy Association of America. Google it.
..
The thing about meet and greets is usually not as local as you may think.
Even being in the same state, you're still hours apart. Nothing is stopping you when you're determined.
You do what needs to be done. If meeting fellow ostomates is on your agenda, go for it.
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rlevineia
Jan 04, 2026 4:42 pm
Ben38 is correct. Ostomy support groups are in many cities. Companies give away a bunch of stuff and buy dinner. Check with United Ostomy. About a million of us.
Due to the stigma of facing a group or strangers (dates?), it's hard to hook up. Fear, leaks, odor, etc. Some members lost their spouses or friends, too. I went on two dinner dates. It took too long in the yucky toilet! I went on one date/hike; it was easier. I would never reveal my "little buddy" until I developed a relationship.
I miss NYE parties. However, at my age, many have given up going out, too. It's kind of like having to empty your pouch in Bank of America Stadium during playoffs. Gross.
A few members have asked about group trips, but it went nowhere. I am a traveler/explorer and love adventure. I tried Japan 15 months ago. It was not easy, even with a slow-paced tour. Better alone or with our peers. I spent 18 days on the AT, September/October. I set the pace, meals, and pit stops. NC, SMNP, TN, and VA.
Idea for a UOAA Christmas Party: a "Grab Bag" and race to the toilet!
Party ON!
Brandon13
Jan 04, 2026 8:19 pm
I would be totally down to attend or join any group meetings to meet more great ostomates.
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lagal2025
Jan 04, 2026 10:57 pm
Do you have the premium membership? Send me a message if you can; we can chat about trying to organize some meet-ups. :)
Brandon13
Jan 05, 2026 4:08 pm
I don't have the premium membership, but I'm definitely considering it since it's just a one-time payment. I saw in one of your comments that you used to live in Wilmington. Do you ever get to come back and visit? My mom is from Charlotte.
lagal2025
Jan 05, 2026 9:02 pm
Hmm
Where in Charlotte does Mama Dukes live? So, do you come to Charlotte often then? I only moved here from Wilm a few years ago; I just wanted a change. I still own my house in Wilm; I rent it out. I come back often; I was just there a few weeks ago visiting my friends. I used to live in the Monkey Junction area.
Brandon13
Jan 05, 2026 11:41 pm
She's only from there and grew up there. I have some good friends who live in Huntersville, but I don't get there as much as I should. I do love it here in Wilmington. I live right across from Mayfaire, and I'm totally itching for the warmer months to return. We need to figure out if there are more people who would do a more local meetup (at least in NC).
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lagal2025
Jan 06, 2026 12:53 am
Cool! Yeah, I think someone organizing a meetup retreat sort of thing would be cool.
We also need to figure out how to get in touch with each other.