TIME FOR HEROES

Shane Green of the Stoma Heroes charity explains what made him set up the group that regularly meets at the Crispin Centre in Street:

In 2017 I had two lifesaving operations due to perforation of the bowel. When I awoke from the first procedure I had an ileostomy (stoma). I had no preparation for life with a stoma and, at that time, felt quite self-conscious and lonely.

Having recovered from my procedure, and my new life with a stoma, I made a decision to reach out to others in my situation with the intention of starting a social/help group. I gained access to other people in my position and, as a result, now have around 15 members who meet once a month, currently at the Crispin Centre in Street. It is a light-hearted group and not all members will turn up every month so we have around 6 to 10 people at any one time comparing experiences. This has proved helpful to me and my new friends, normalising the life we now live. I am expecting an increase in numbers as we go forwards.

Occasionally we have a stoma nurse attending meetings which has proved invaluable for those who may need help or product advice.

If you are interested in joining us please contact me via email or mobile – [email protected] / 07802 428074.

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