Step Up for Ostomy 2024 Recap

Uniting for Awareness and Change Across Canada!

This year, October 5th marked a significant date for ostomates across Canada as we celebrated Ostomy Awareness Day with the Step Up For Ostomy campaign. This annual effort is an opportunity to unite our community, promote ostomy awareness, and raise vital funds to support those who live with an ostomy.

A Nationwide Effort

Ostomy Awareness Day was abuzz with events from coast to coast. Cities like Calgary, Vancouver, Regina, and Moncton held inspiring awareness walks, while new locations like Medicine Hat and Chatham stepped up to join the cause. We’re thrilled to welcome them into our growing network of awareness champions!

Returning groups such as Halifax and Ottawa hosted public awareness events, while Saint John organized a small, informal gathering. Janet Paquet from Hamilton also participated in a public run that raised much awareness about what an ostomy is (see pic below).

While many local groups organized awareness walks to build momentum, our intimate peer support groups, including those in SW Nova Scotia and Medicine Hat, opted to host hospital awareness booths to assist individuals seeking support and information directly. Medicine Hat hosted a Charity BBQ in collaboration with Wellwise, while SW Nova Scotia included a silent auction at their booth. Witnessing our affiliated groups elevate awareness efforts this year has been truly inspiring!

Step Up For Ostomy 2024 - Campaign Progress

Fundraising Successes

Thanks to the collective efforts of our sponsors, teams, and individual fundraisers, we have raised an impressive $51,252 so far—just over half of our ambitious $100,000 target. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, including the groups and chapters that chose to support us through donations and sponsorships instead of traditional fundraising, such as Vancouver Ostomy.

This year, our sponsors have played a crucial role by contributing $22,000 toward our goal. We would like to recognize the significant support from our diamond sponsors: Hollister, Coloplast, and Wellwise.

Top Fundraisers

This year’s fundraising efforts were led by some exceptional individuals and teams:

Bill Power from Halifax emerged as the top individual fundraiser, collecting an impressive $4,000.
Carly Allen (@ostomate_and_the_city) from Vancouver secured second place with $3,200.
Tiffany Shorson from Calgary rounded out the top three by raising $1,105.

Among the teams, Ostomy Halifax stood tall, amassing $5,225. Ostomy Saskatchewan came second with $3,325, while Calgary Ostomy secured third place with $2,380.

Please visit our Just Giving page for those keen on more details about our fundraising teams and contributions. A comprehensive write-up will also be featured in the Winter 2025 Ostomy Canada Magazine for further insights and stories.

Celebrating Community and Raising Awareness

Events like the Step Up For Ostomy campaign not only draw attention to important issues but also foster a sense of community among ostomates. This year, Calgary’s event included a fun ostomy model photoshoot, showcasing the creativity and spirit of participants. Read more about it here.

Ostomy awareness is crucial; it helps break down barriers, reduce stigma, and educate the public about living with an ostomy. By coming together, we’ve made strides in raising awareness and funds to support the needs of ostomates across Canada.

We look forward to continuing this momentum and achieving our fundraising goal. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and shared their stories. Together, we’re making a difference!

Look for future events and initiatives for more updates and ways to get involved. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the community, your involvement is invaluable. Let’s continue to raise awareness of ostomy issues and support each other!