This topic is about someone in San Diego who urgently needs colostomy bags. They have run out of supplies and are currently relying on the one pouch they have. They are waiting for Medicaid approval, have very limited funds, and are reaching out to see if anyone nearby can help with supplies, offering to pay what they can.

Here are some helpful suggestions and insights for anyone in a similar situation:

1. Contact local assistance lines by dialing 211 in California. They can connect you to emergency ostomy-supply programs.

2. Look into nonprofit and community resources. The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) website lists local support groups that often have “supply closets” for emergencies.

3. Consider purchasing supplies out-of-pocket from online distributors like Medical Monks and Vitality Medical. These options can be cheaper than hospital prices, so compare prices to find the best deal.

4. If forum members offer to ship supplies overnight, be sure to provide exact details such as flange diameter, system type, product or part numbers, and any other components needed (like wafers or rings). Remember, there is essentially no difference between an ileostomy and a colostomy pouch; the correct fit depends on size.

5. When requesting help, always include the manufacturer name, brand, product code, and size to speed up the assistance process.

6. Be aware that Coloplast will not send emergency replacements. Their charitable program requires an application process that can take several weeks.

7. If you need immediate help from a forum, provide details quickly so members can check their stock and mail items as soon as possible.