World Ostomy Day World Ostomy Day 2009 will be celebrated on the 3 rd October 2009 and the theme will be “Reaching Out” The aim of World Ostomy Day is to improve the rehabilitation of Ostomates worldwide by bringing to the attention of the general community and the global community the needs and aspirations of Ostomates and their families. Activities to promote awareness may include: educational programs, seminars, support meetings and demonstrations/displays; electronic information networks, newspaper and magazine announcements/advertisements and articles. Publication of informative handout materials and brochures: audio and video announcements and films; personal visits and lobbying activities; official government proclamations and joint activities with allies agencies and professional health Associations Once again the Coloplast Merit Award will be an integral part of World Ostomy Day. The aim of the award is to encourage the spread of enterprising initiatives of national Ostomy Associations to member Associations around the world. The award has been developed in cooperation with IOA and has been presented since 1991. There will be 3 regional contests
As part of WOD 2009 there will also be an International photographic competition sponsored by Hollister. The WorldOstomy Day Photo Contest. The theme of this competition is to indicate that having a Stoma does not stop Ostomates leading a full and active life. For example families on vacation, during work, sporting activities, spending time with children/ grand children volunteering in community organisations. There will be 20 winners for this competition from all parts of the world. Keep your eyes open for more details of both competitions which will be announced later this year. Peter McQueen WOD 2009 Coordinator |