Definition: Friendship is a stronger form of interpersonal bond than an association.
While an associate can be described as a person whom one knows slightly.
We as ostomates tend to say once we join, we're seeking friendship and others who can relate to our condition.
I heard members say outsiders are cruel. I'm referring to non-ostomates when I say outsiders.
"News flash," the same people out there are here too. The only difference is, they are now ostomates.
I've been to other countries, states, and cities and have encountered both good and bad people. Some I called friends while others were associates.
I joined this group in 2016. I stumbled upon this site. No one told me about MeetAnOstomate (MAO).
I had my colostomy in 2015. I have a close friend of 36 years with whom I shared my feelings with before and after surgery.
I didn't feel comfortable talking about my colostomy with my family at that time. I was actually ashamed and didn't accept my fate.
I had mentioned before that I attended a local support group but didn't get anything out of it.
The things that members discuss here in our group (MAO) are not discussed locally in other support groups.
In conclusion, I wish you all the best. I hope that those who seek friendship find it. If you're lucky, you'll find good friends and/or associates. I did!
Respectfully,
Angelicamarie