Welcome to our October update!
Colostomy UK
Colostomy UK are here to support anyone with a stoma to live their life to the fullest.
This month we look back on our Stoma Aware Day and Step Up For Stomas campaigns, which both had so much impact thanks to YOUR support.
We also share our exclusive interview with Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon, reveal some more Stoma Friendly toilet successes, and are looking for your feedback on our Active Ostomates classes.
Step Up For Stomas
Our annual Step Up For Stomas challenge took place between the 14th-20th of October (the 42nd week of the year!),This time we encouraged you to take on a challenge based on the number 42, because every 42 minutes someone turns to us for support.
Over 100 people registered to Do 42, and have raised over £12,000 so far, with the total still rising. As a charity that relies on donations, we could not be more thankful for all of your support.
There is still a chance for you to support our campaign. You can donate directly here.
Exclusive interview with Coronation Street's Lucy Fallon
Coronation Street’s Bethany Platt played by Lucy Fallon had stoma surgery while in Turkey. Now back in the UK, the lead up to Christmas will see Bethany's challenges with coming to terms with her stoma, come to the fore on air.
We spoke to Lucy about the story, how she prepared for it, and what she knew about stomas previously.
Read the full interview here and in the next issue of Tidings Magazine, out next month!
Stoma Friendly Toilets update
TransPennine Express are the latest train operating company to commit to making accessible toilets at their stations Stoma Friendly. Work is due to be completed by February 2025, and when completed passengers who use stations including Manchester Airport, Hull, Dewsbury, and Middlesbrough will benefit.
Staying with Trains, Network Rail have now finished upgrades to the accessible toilets at Bristol Temple Meads so that they now meet our Stoma Friendly guidelines, as has Hull Truck Theatre.
If you think you can help us to introduce more Stoma Friendly facilities please email us with your address, and we'll send you a pack in the post.
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Stoma Aware Day Success!
We had an amazing Stoma Aware day earlier this month, and we'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part.
As well as the thousands of people who shared their story, held awareness events, or fundraised, we also generated some brilliant coverage on the television, and in print and digital media.
One of the highlights was our President Ian Daniels and volunteer Debs being interviewed on the BBC Breakfast sofa. If you missed it you can watch the full segment on our YouTube channel.
We want your Active Ostomates feedback!
Active Ostomates is about keeping your body and mind active.
We offer free online classes for people living with a stoma, Current options include Pilates, Chair Yoga, Yoga and Mindfulness.
We want to know what type of activities you would like to see in the future that would inspire you to get active with us?
Please send us an email with your suggestions!
Stoma 101: Reporting Pain
Time with a healthcare professional is often limited and it's easy to forget to report something when you do see them.
In this article, Stoma care nurse Jackie McPhail talks you through the 'PQRSTU' Assessment, to help you report pain to your healthcare professional 💡
Trustee Vacancy
We are looking for a Trustee with Clinical Experience to join our charity!
You don’t need any previous trustee experience. However, we are seeking an enthusiastic person, who will bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the role.
Find out more here
” A Little Break” by John Baxter – Raising awareness of stomas
John Baxter recently raised £310 from collections at a showing of his one plan play, A Little Break, written by and starring himself.
He says “In May 2023 I had my colon removed. The support I received from a number of individuals and agencies was incredible. I have written this radio play because I wanted to do something to contribute to Stoma Awareness as sponsored through Colostomy UK.”
You can find out more and watch John's play here