The topic is about attending the 2025 United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) Conference in Orlando. A newcomer to the forum is curious if others are planning to attend and is eager to connect with fellow attendees. They are embracing life with an ileostomy and are excited to treat the conference as a vacation, hoping to meet others for coffee or a drink.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by the community:

1. Finding the existing conference discussion thread:
- Use the site’s search bar or check the “Trending Topics” under the Forum tab.
- There are links to two recent threads that might be useful:
- [Link 1](https://www.meetanostomate.org/discussion-forum/viewtopic.php?t=33881)
- [Link 2](https://www.meetanostomate.org/discussion-forum/viewtopic.php?t=34584)

2. General encouragement and community support:
- Newcomers are warmly welcomed, with reminders that everyone starts from the beginning.
- Several members confirm they are attending, with some presenting or having attended past conferences, which they highly recommend.
- The workshops and sessions are valuable for staying updated on ostomy developments, but meeting people is the main attraction.
- The event is described as low-stress, focused on peers, and a chance for self-care, networking, and fun. Many plan to extend their trip into a vacation.

3. Perspective for hesitant or medically challenged attendees:
- Even those with ongoing health issues, like high-output ileostomy or frequent hospitalizations, express interest and are reassured that the conference is supportive and informative.

4. Practical tips:
- Review the schedule of events in advance to select workshops of interest.
- Reserve hotel rooms early, as one attendee noted they have their room reserved but are still planning their flight.

5. Overall takeaway:
- Many forum members are committed to attending, plan to meet up on-site, and encourage others, especially newcomers, to join for education, camaraderie, and enjoyment.