Understanding the Ostomy Awareness Ribbon
Ostomies are becoming more common, with over 725,000 Americans living with an ostomy. An ostomy refers to a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the body to allow for the removal of bodily waste. People get ostomies for many reasons such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, injury or birth defects.
Living with an ostomy can present both physical and emotional challenges. To show support and spread awareness, the ostomy community uses colored ribbons as symbols. But what do the different ostomy ribbon colors represent?
The Meaning of the Purple Ostomy Awareness Ribbon
The most common ostomy awareness ribbon color is purple. The purple ribbon represents the fight against bowel and bladder diseases that often lead to needing an ostomy. This includes conditions like:
- Colorectal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Birth defects affecting the digestive or urinary system
The purple ribbon reminds us that these diseases can be life-altering. By wearing it we show compassion for ostomy patients while also promoting education and advocacy for better treatment options.
Other Ostomy Ribbon Colors and Their Meanings
You may see people sporting different colored ostomy awareness ribbons besides purple. Here are some other common options and what they represent:
- Burgundy: Representing an ileostomy or needing an ostomy due to Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Red: Bringing attention to colorectal cancer.
- Teal: Focusing on bladder cancer and related ostomies.
- Green: Spotlighting the struggles with molding an ostomy to your body.
Wearing an Ostomy Ribbon to Support Friends and Family
If you don't have an ostomy yourself, you may want to wear a ribbon to show compassion for a loved one who does. Simply sporting the purple, burgundy, green or other awareness ribbon colors lets them know you notice their struggle.
Consider wearing an ostomy ribbon color that specifically represents your friend or family members condition. For example, grab a red ribbon for your uncle with colon cancer or a teal one to support your wife with a new urostomy.
How to Get Ostomy Ribbon Pins and Magnets
Ostomy associations produce ribbons in various styles to suit different needs. Here are some places to find ostomy ribbon accessories like pins and magnets:
- Visit the UOAA online store
- Check your local ostomy association
- Look for ribbon pins at awareness events and walks
- Purchase from reputable online retailers like Amazon or Etsy
Pins allow displaying the ribbon on a shirt or hat. Fridge magnets let supporters keep the symbol visible at home. Consider pairing your ribbon with an ostomy awareness t-shirt or bracelet too.
Spreading Awareness Through Ribbon Colors
Ribbons come in both solids and ombre styles. An ombre ribbon fades the color from dark to light. This gradient style symbolizes the up and down journey many ostomates face.
When you wear an ostomy awareness ribbon, people may ask about its meaning. This gives a chance to educate others on ostomy surgery. Explain how ostomies work and why they are necessary for certain conditions. Share some statistics on how many ostomy patients live full, meaningful lives.
Use the opportunity as a teaching moment to reduce stigma. The more people understand about ostomies, the more compassion they can show to those living with them.
Ostomy Awareness Ribbons Promote Community and Hope
The various colored ostomy ribbons help build community for several important reasons:
- They allow ostomates to instantly spot allies and supporters.
- They give patients a symbol of hope during their adjustment process.
- They facilitate opportunities to share information and experiences.
- They bring public attention to common digestive and urinary diseases.
In a world where bowel and bladder issues get little air time, the ostomy ribbon offers a bright visual reminder. It proudly proclaims that those with an ostomy have nothing to hide or be embarrassed about.
Ways to Participate in Ostomy Awareness Events
Pairing your ribbon with other awareness building activities maximizes impact. Throughout the year various groups host events to spotlight ostomy issues. Here are some ideas for getting involved:
- Organize a local ostomy walk - raise funds & educate
- Share your story at an awareness fair or conference
- Volunteer to speak at a hospital support group meeting
- Hand out literature on ostomy surgery at your doctors office
Attending fifth grade educational sessions also makes a difference. Students often get assigned reports on diseases like IBD or cancer. Go speak to classes to reduce stigma around ostomies early on.
Follow Groups Promoting Ostomy Awareness Online
The internet provides many conduits for ostomy awareness these days. Connecting with advocacy groups and influencers on social media is impactful too with the following benefits:
- Gives a sense of community beyond your local area
- Provides tips & inspiration from fellow ostomates
- Allows you to keep up with the latest research and news
- Offers a platform for sharing your patient perspective
Help reduce feelings of isolation by joining ostomy Facebook groups and subscribing to YouTube channels. Just participating in the comments spreads awareness to other members.
Everyone Can Help Spread Ostomy Awareness
You don't need to live with an ostomy or know someone who does to promote awareness. Anyone can wear a ribbon, educate friends or volunteer for advocacy groups like the UOAA.
Small acts of visibility and understanding make a cumulative difference. So sport your ribbon with pride knowing it unites members of the ostomy community. Together through openness and compassion, we can decrease stigmas. By sharing stories we bear witness to the incredible resilience of the human spirit!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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