Resources

We recommend the following resources for more information on digestive health.

• Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America
• Diet and nutrition
• National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• National Institutes of Health
• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons

Ostomy support groups and references

• United Ostomy Associations
• Richmond Ostomy Association (look under patient/visitor information, support groups)
• VCU Center for Digestive Health ostomy information

Major ostomy suppliers providing ostomy information

• Convatec
• Hollister

Resources for those unable to afford supplies

• Ask your ostomy nurse for special programs available to you.
• Visit the www.ostogroup.org website. Supplies are free if you qualify, but you will be asked to pay the shipping. If your usual supplies are not available, they may be able to offer you a similar product.

Online chat room

• Meet an Ostomate – This online chat room and resource provides helpful information for ostomates. Just remember, everyone’s situation is different. Consult your ostomy nurse or physician before using skin preparations or taking medicines recommended by other ostomates.

Specialty garments

• Osto My Secrets offers stylish ostomy underwear and ostomy garments.